Lucien Edwards - The Moustache Growers Guide

A man without a moustache is like a cup of tea without sugar.
English proverb

From prehistoric times to now, the moustache has evolved from a roughly hewn block of hair into a genuine work of art. An artist needs his tools, however, and over the years moustache connoisseurs have found help in a long parade of tools and accessories beginning with sharpened rocks and evolving to include waxes, scissors, razors, snoods (a moustache net used while sleeping), moustache cups (special drinking cups), and a host of others. Meanwhile, the popularity of the moustache in society has been a long journey full of ups and downs. Just when it seems that the stache has been resigned to the realm of fops and rogues (or, in modern times, porn stars), a cultural revolution will swing the pendulum back and usher in a new day for moustaches.

Regardless of its current standing in popular culture, the moustache will always be fashionable among those who can see through the fuzz and truly appreciate its subtle charms. This book is for them. Inside is information and instructions for shaving and maintaining a world of classic and modern moustache styles. Some take less time, some are more difficult, some require sticky waxes. All are a fun and creative way to put your whiskers to some use, so dont be bashful about trying any or every one of them.

As any dedicated moustache grower will tell you, however, its not so important what kind of moustache you sport but how you wear it. Accordingly, much attention has been paid within these pages to inform the reader of appropriate attire for pairing with specific styles. These are only suggestionsreaders are encouraged to dress their brush up in whatever outfits suit their fancy. Really the only thing one should absolutely not forget before leaving the house is self-confidence, which allows anyone to pull off even the most absurd costume.

No matter what style you wear or what outfit you put on, the most important thing is to have fun with your moustache. Twist, wax, snip, or trimjust imagine your whiskers as a clean palette on which to create your brilliant masterpiece.

Each entry in this book provides a description of a unique style, instructions for sculpting and grooming, and suggestions for accompanying attire. Within each section, moustaches are ranked from easiest to most difficult. A note is also given for the approximate time it will take to grow each style. All instructions presuppose that readers have stopped shaving for the length of time indicated and have a full moustache and beard to work with. Those who are comfortable with this shaggy approach are encouraged to read the entry on the for suggestions on grooming and attire during the growing process. Others should simply continue shaving at regular intervals while following the instructions given. Depending on the rate of hair growth, the moustache will be complete in roughly the same amount of time.

Every artist needs the right tools in order to create a masterpiece. Use this list to familiarize yourself with the basics, then spend some time experimenting with different products to learn what works best for you.

The most important tool in your kit, razors come in a variety of styles. Use whichever feels most comfortable to you and always be sure to follow the manufacturers instructionsthis is your face were talking about, after all.

Swivel Head Razor: The standard model for most men, these razors feature a disposable cartridge for the blades. The swivel head allows the blades to move with the contours of your face.

Fixed Head Razor: Think cheap, plastic, and disposable; the fixed head means limited mobility and the blades are generally only sharp enough for one shave.

Electric Razor: The choice of traveling businessmen and rushed morning commuters, electric razors allow for dry shaves on the go but dont offer as close a shave as a traditional wet-shave razor.

While you wont find the following razors in the aisles of a drugstore, you can still spot them on the cheeks of some professionals and shaving aficionados:

Safety Razor: Seldom used today, these old-school razors feature replaceable blades. Despite the safety razors name, modern razors are actually much safer.

Straight Razor: With their single, sharp blades, these razors provide ultra-close shaves. Seek advice from an experienced professional before taking this model for a test-drive.

Electric Trimmer

Featuring two comb-shaped blades that cut with to-the-millimeter accuracy, electric trimmers are indispensable for tricky or precision styles. Choose one with the maximum number of attachments (combs that attach to the trimmer and elevate the blades above the face), which allow you to trim large or small areas of hair to whatever height you choose.

Moustache Scissors

These small, sharp scissors are perfect for cleaning up rough edges and manual detailing.

Moustache Comb

This classic accessory features a small row of closely spaced teeth and is ideal for straightening out any tangled or unruly moustache hairs.

Shaving Brush

While shaving brushes, which are used to apply traditional shaving cream, are less ubiquitous than they once were, serious shavers still swear by them. Aside from delivering a frothy, even lather onto your face, these brushes have the added benefit of massaging the skin, thereby relaxing the face and providing a superior shave. Choose those made of badger hair for a sublime experience.

Creams, Soaps, Foams, and Gels

Foams and gels often contain irritating chemicals. Traditional shaving creams and soaps, though not as easily available, are the choice of seasoned professionals. Creams generally come in either a tub or tube, have a thick and tacky consistency, contain no irritating chemicals, and require water to form a lather. Shaving soaps are similar to creams but are sold in hard cakes (like bars of soap). One can rub a wet shaving brush directly on a cake of soap or shave some soap flakes into a bowl before mixing with a wet brush to create lather. Mixed properly, traditional shaving creams and soaps produce a rich, satisfying lather.

Shaving Oil

For those wishing to further protect their skin against the scrape of the razor, shaving oils can be applied directly to the face to provide an extra layer of lubrication.