In our “Ask a Barber” series, SG tracks down expert intel on Style Girlfriend readers’ most pressing grooming and skincare questions. Got one of your own? Let us know!

John Rivera, The Art of Shaving

John Rivera got his start in his father’s garage on Long Island, doing basic $5 haircuts on Long Island when he was just sixteen years old.

After college, he apprenticed before becoming a fully licensed barber in 2008, and joined The Art of Shaving in 2011. He can be found delivering shaves and haircuts as a Master Barber at the luxe chain’s Broadway location.

A Reader Asks:

“How do I find the best shaving tool for my face?”

Finding the best razor for your skin type and skill level can be a challenge. Whether you have coarse beard hair, sensitive skin, or no shaving concerns, it is always important to use high quality razors and quality products to start your perfect shave right.

Our Lexington Razor, which features a flex ball razor, is a great choice for a beginner. It gives you freedom to make easy strokes because the pivoting head will follow the contours of your face.

To avoid undue irritation, everyone should shave in the direction of the hair growth, also known as “with the grain.” Always make sure to lather up again after your first pass and then go against the grain or back shave for an even closer shave.

In praise of the safety razor

If you are not a beginner and feel like going back to a classic style of shaving that is kept alive by people like me, then the safety and straight razor is what you should get.

You will find that these take some skill to use, the straight razor more than the safety. Don’t be discouraged; it is not easy at first. Give yourself sometime to get used to a new technique.

When to use an electric razor

Electric razors are for men that can never have a blade edge touch the skin. The hair is cut close to the surface, but not directly from the skin as the other razors. Use this if you need to be fast or want to keep a 5 o’clock shadow.

Everyone should note, shaving with pre shave oil and a glycerin-based shaving cream will make the razor do its job better. Also, don’t forget to moisturize. This step will help replenish moisture and keep skin soft and smooth.

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WHAT KIND OF RAZOR(S) DO YOU USE TO SHAVE?

For more expert advice from our “Ask a Barber” series, check out the 5 Grooming Must-Haves Every Man Should Own, The Recommended Grooming Routine, and The Grooming Products to Save/Splurge On.