Fellas, as we adjust to these warmer months of summer, it’s imperative that we understand how to maintain proper grooming as it relates to our hair and facial hair.

No matter how fly your wardrobe is, if you don’t look presentable or know how to maintain one of the most integral parts of our image, it's pointless. 

I asked a couple of guys to send us questions they wanted answered by AXE Hair master barber Pedro Rosario. I chatted with Pedro to get some grooming tips and advice based on what our readers wanted to know. Here is what he had to say.

BET: When guys shave their face, which method is better, razor shave or clipper shave, and why?

Pedro Rosario: Honestly, it depends on your skin. There are some men that, no matter how well they prep their skin or how good their razor is, they feel irritation. A clipper shave is never going to be as close as a razor, but it is the best way to avoid feeling razor burn or getting bumps. When done the right, a razor shave is amazing; it’s just not going to be appreciated by everyone because of sensitivity.

BET: How can Black men avoid ingrown hairs?

PR: One of the best ways to avoid ingrown hairs is to give the razor a break and buzz your face with clippers or an edger. Also, a good face scrub for a deep clean and to remove dead skin from your face.

BET: What is the best treatment for ingrown hairs?

PR: Unfortunately, one of the best treatments for ingrown hairs is a bit painful. You literally need to remove the hair out of the bump with a pair of tweezers. Once it heals, which takes a while, the skin will be much smoother with proper care.

BET: Is there a proper way to shave?

PR: There is absolutely a proper way to shave. Follow these steps:

• Wash face thoroughly.


• Use a hot towel/hot water to open pores.


• Apply pre-shave oil.


• Apply lather.


• Shave with the grain, not against. It’s not as close but it will help prevent bumps.


• Apply cold towel or cold water to close the pores.


• Use a quality after shave and/or moisturizer.

BET: What do you recommend for men who suffer from hair loss?

PR: Losing your hair is a humbling experience for anyone. Your options are very limited if you can’t afford surgery. I recommend Axe Daily Thickening Shampoo as a day-to day-option as you fight the valiant fight. Its blended with caffeine and this gives your hair a thicker look and feel for easy styling.  

BET: What's the best product for post-shaving for Black men?

PR: Any good moisturizer or after shave works well. One trick I like using is an ice-cold towel to close the pores after a shave and to soothe the skin.

B: What treatment is there for Black guys who suffer from dry scalp?

PR: There are a few options to choose from. A few drops any tea tree, argan or Moroccan oil rubbed deep into the scalp after washing the hair once or twice weekly should work well.

BET: How can you tell when your barber has taken your hairline back too far? What do you recommend to correct it?

PR: You can usually tell when a barber pushed the hairline back a day or two after it starts to grow out. You'll notice a slight shadow and a double line, the new one and the natural one. The best way to correct it is buy a hat, find a new barber and get a better shape up in a week.

BET: What is your advice when switching your haircut style and trying to stay ahead of trends without going too far left?

PR: When choosing a new haircut, its always best to consult with your barber and get their input based on your texture and head shape. They can guide you through a style change and keep you neat if you’re going from short too long.

B: Without insulting any of your clients, what hairstyle or grooming trend do you think needs to be retired?

PR: The man bun. If you’re not a samurai or a yogi, it’s time to let it go.

B: Hair units for men, do you think this trend will last?

PR: I think that variations of hair replacements, paint jobs and any product that creates the illusion of hair will last until someone finally invents the magic pill that regrows hair. Men are vain even if we pretend not to be and our hair is part of our identity. I tell guys buzz it or shave it all off, join a gym, get a tailored suit and a nice pair of shoes and their confidence will be restored to the maximum.