The classic barber shave is three passes, each preceded by a hot toweling and lathering. They involve with the grain, across the grain, and against the grain. This is followed by after-shave, moisturizer, and a light dusting of talc.

Though some don't, I always re-lather before a subsequent pass. Across the grain is definitely easier than jumping ahead to against the grain in an abbreviated two-pass shave. Know which way the grain is laid out. I have a swirl under my chin to the left side of my throat that's a pain to deal with. It's sort of like a cowlick like Alfalfa had in the old "Our Gang" black-and-whites, but on my face .... Ah, well .... one of life's burdens, I guess