I’ve been trying to figure out the best way to map my beard grain to avoid irritation. Letting it grow for a few days and using a credit card to feel the direction seems to work. What techniques have you found effective?
Try shaving across the grain first—less irritation, still close.
Mapping beard grain effectively involves more than just feeling the direction with a credit card. For a precise approach, consider using a diagram to record growth patterns in different facial zones, as hair direction can vary significantly. Additionally, incorporating an alum block post-shave can highlight areas where you might still be shaving against the grain unintentionally, providing immediate feedback for adjustments. While shaving across the grain, as mentioned, balances closeness and irritation, a three-pass method—with, across, and then against the grain—can optimize results for those seeking a closer shave without excessive irritation, provided your technique and skin prep are thorough.