Thread: Trimming a goatee

Right now I'm using an electric trimmer, but I'd like to use my straight. I assume at one point barbers trimmed facial hair with a straight, since that is all they had. I'm not talking about "shaping" my beard, I can do that easily enough with a straight -- I mean, when I need to take 1/2" off the top. Any tips? I just can't figure out how it's done.

Thanks.

I'm pretty sure they used scissors to trim thickness or volume of facial hair the same as the hair on heads.Seems like using a razor held away from the skin would be dangerous and dull the edge unnecessarily.

You got me. You might want to look at those Durham Duplex razors with the teeth -- I always assumed those were guards similar to the ones you put on clippers but I'm not positive.

I used to use clippers on my head but now I just DE it. I now use the clippers to keep my facial-hair-style-o'-the-week trim, if applicable.

Like they said, I'm pretty sure barbers used scissors to trim beards. I guess you could use a straight, but it would take forever and you'd have to be really really careful to not mess it up and keep it even.

Originally Posted by commiecat

You got me. You might want to look at those Durham Duplex razors with the teeth -- I always assumed those were guards similar to the ones you put on clippers but I'm not positive.

I used to use clippers on my head but now I just DE it. I now use the clippers to keep my facial-hair-style-o'-the-week trim, if applicable.

+1 .... what he says ...

If you wanted to use a str8 to trim I would hold a comb at the level then use a str8 with a guard and replaceable blades. The comb will guide the razor then the guard will protect the blade from the comb. It is easier with a comb and scissors.

Trim down the length? That's crazy talk, you let it go long! Ok just kidding, maybe that look isn't for everyone.

I do agree scissors or trimmers are way to go. In same regards I can't imagine using a razor to clean/straighten up the bottom of the moustache either.

Ps-as you pointed out, no better way than the straight to shape it and get clean true lines between unshaded to shaved areas