Beach Ready: Your Expert Guide to Body Grooming

The New Zealand summer holidays mean warmer weather, beach time and a greater need for comfort and confidence below the neck. While your haircut and beard are your signature, summer demands that the rest of your grooming routine is just as sharp.

For many men, managing body hair or "manscaping" is about hygiene, comfort in the heat and personal preference. Here is our expert guide to tackling the tricky spots and ensuring your look is ready for the beach.

1. Torso Grooming: Back, Chest & Shoulders

Managing hair across the chest, shoulders and back requires strategy and the right tools. With the correct technique, you can achieve smooth, comfortable results.

• Prep is Essential: Start by taking a hot shower to soften the hair. Clean hair is much more easily removable. Always dry off completely before starting your shave, as wet skin can affect the razor's glide.
• The Trimmer First: If you have bulkier growth, trim hair to a manageable length beforehand. Work slowly and carefully with a trusty trimmer to ensure a smoother, more comfortable shave later. The Bowery Shipwright Trimmer is ideal for this job.
• The Shave Technique
  • Lather Up: Use a generous helping of quality shave cream to help guide the razor smoothly across the surface. We recommend the Earnest Empire Shave Cream. 
  • Direction: Always shave in the direction of growth (never against the grain) to significantly reduce the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs. Take light strokes in small patches.
  • Pro Tip: Our Earnest Empire Premium Razor has an in-built Aloe Vera & Vitamin E lubricating strip to reduce friction, plus an exfoliating bar to fight ingrown hairs. Plus you'll get free blade refills with every cut. Our ongoing bonus. (Subject to stock availability & excludes kid's cuts.)
  • Post Shave Care: Follow up with a calming product like The Bowery B'Hoy Aftershave Lotion to lock in moisture and help the skin repair its protective barrier.

2. Essential Summer Quick Tips

Don't neglect these crucial details to ensure all-day comfort and a sharp finish.

• Daily SPF Defense: Remember that newly trimmed or shaved skin is highly susceptible to burning. Apply SPF30+ to all exposed areas before going to the beach.
• Feet & Nails: In summer, your feet are exposed in sandals & jandals. Don't let your grooming standards slip below the ankle - attention to detail matters everywhere. Keep toenails neatly trimmed and filed.
• Pro Tip: You'll receive a FREE pair of nail clippers with any King Brown purchase.

Your ultimate summer look is a combination of attention to detail and sharp style. While maintaining comfort is key, a fresh haircut is the final step to ensure you feel confident. Visit your local BarberShopCo today, your local barber is the expert who ensures you look sharp and feel great for the season.

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