In short, it means that the razor blade needs to travel in the same direction that your hair is growing.

The Fool Proof Against-the-Grain Shaving Method. Great shaving forums and community. Therefore, if you want a desired level of smoothness, you can incorporate two or three into your shaving routine. face shaving tips: against the grain Whether to shave with the grain or against the grain (ATG) is one of the most commonly asked questions about shaving. To achieve even a close shave, you would want to shave in the following manner: With the grain; Across the grain (optional) Against the grain (optional) As you can see above, the last two steps are optional dependent on the man. While shaving in the same direction as your hair grows (with the grain) might allow you to avoid irritation, it also can keep you from getting the close or smooth shave you want. What happens when you shave against the grain is that the razor blade tugs the hair before it cuts it. Shaving against the grain stirs quite a debate among shaving enthusiasts in the world. Many people advise not shaving against the grain because of ingrown hairs, redness, irritation, and many other maladies. You need to cut those hairs down to near-skin length. The most specific question regarding shaving and hair direction is whether or not to shave “against the grain” or contrary to the direction of growth. Some say you should do it because it is the only way to get a closer shave. If you want to achieve a smooth, close, clean shave look, there are ways to do it without getting razor burn.

If you want the closest possible shave, then you must shave against the grain. While shaving against the grain helps you get much closer to the skin, it also increases the risk of skin irritation, razor bumps, or even razor burn. Shaving against the grain means shaving a minimum of three times in a row. On the other hand, others say that you should never do it because … Wet shaving forum. While shaving in the same direction as your hair grows (with the grain) might mean less irritation, it also can keep you from getting the close or smooth shave you want. So, what does this really mean? Advice on shaving techniques, razor blades, shaving soaps, creams, brushes, and personal grooming.

To begin, you cannot shave a three-day beard against the grain on your first attempt. When it comes to shaving your face, head, pubes, or anywhere else on your body, you will often hear shaving enthusiasts and barbers alike proclaiming that you MUST shave with the grain.