Shave or trim: picking a routine you'll keep

A trimmer on a short guard is the low-effort option. A proper wet shave takes longer and suits some skin better.

Grooming · By the Man Brief team · 1 min read · Monday 14 September 2026

A beard trimmer on its shortest guard gives you even stubble in a couple of minutes, with no cuts and no foam. It suits anyone who shaves because work expects it.

A wet shave with a sharp blade and a warm flannel beforehand gives the closest finish. Shave with the grain first, and only go against it if your skin puts up with it.

Whichever you pick, keep the kit clean, and a fresh blade does more than a new gel.