Although not as popular today, it is a hairstyle that really suits some people, especially guys with particularly thick hair.

A flat top is designed to be cut so that the hair stands vertically on the head. The length can be very short with a severe taper at the sides and back or quite long on top, depending on your preference.

You can also go for sharp, straight edges and corners or a more rounded look.

I used to sport a flat top in my younger days and loved the look. I get very envious when I see guys with a flat top these days because it still looks cool.

To maintain the flat top ‘look’ you would normally need to visit the hair salon every 2 to 3 weeks, which can become very expensive and time-consuming. Fortunately you can achieve this look by using a good pair of professional hair clippers and a special comb.

This is not a hair clipper style you can easily achieve yourself and I suggest you don’t try! However it is fairly straight forward to do.

Here are the steps to follow to give someone the flat top look:

Step 1

Equipment. Other than your hair clipper with different blade or guard sizes, you will need a flat top comb, also known as a topper. It looks like a detangling comb. About 6 inches wide with long teeth and a handle. You can get them with spirit levels (bubble level) on the top to ensure a completely level finish.

Step 2

Decide on what length you want the sides and back to be and attach the appropriate sized blade/guard. A number 2 or 3 is usually the prefered length, although you could go even shorter if you wanted a more dramatic look.

Step 3

Start at the back of the head and guide the trimmer up to the parietal ridge – just where the head curves round and in line with the temple. Be careful not to go too far up or you will end up with too small an area at the top of the head. Use the clipper in the same way around the sides using that imaginary line as a guide.

Step 4

Now you need to use the comb for the sides and the top of the back part of the head. First remove the clipper guard. Slide the comb into the hair at whatever angle you desire. It doesn’t have to be a perfect box style cut. You can taper the cut by angling the comb slightly. Simply trim the hairs that protrude through the teeth of the comb. You do resting the clipper on the comb and guiding it against the comb’s teeth at right angles.

Continue until you have cut both sides and the back of the head. The most important part of this step is to ensure the angles on both sides are evenly matched. You may need to go over one side a little more in order to even them up, but this can be done when you finish the top of the hair.

Step 5

The next step is to cut the top of the head. It is important that the person’s head is upright and facing forward. The topper comb must be parallel to the floor and you can use the bubble level to ensure you have the right angle.

Slide the comb onto the top of the head and lift it until you reach the desired length. Ensure you have the comb level and then cut the hair with your clippers.

Don’t rush this step. You might want to go a little higher at first to check the angle and make any adjustments if required.

Step 6

A good idea once you’ve finished the cut is to run a comb or brush through the hair in order to identify any stray hairs, or if any of the sides or top need a further cut. Check the top is level and the sides are perfectly even. Use the topper comb to revisit any areas if necessary.

Step 7

Now that the flat top has been achieved, it’s time to use a trimmer to outline the areas around the ears and neck, including shaving the neck area.

Don’t worry that it seems to take a long time to complete the entire process at first. The flat top is not a hard look to achieve, although you will need to practise before the steps become routine.

Not so long ago, I presumed one beard trimmer was pretty much the same as another. They all did the same job and it was only the different manufacturer models that set them apart.

The ones I’ve bought in the past took little thought, and were merely to suit my budget. How wrong could I be?

The difference between a cheap, poor quality model you can buy almost anywhere, compared to one of the leading models, is just too great to ignore.

I’ve researched the top few beard trimmers currently on the market and I’m happy to report that the Andis Outliner II 04063 ranks as one of the best, and possibly the best, professional beard trimmer you can buy.

Buying a cheap model is a false economy. Not only will the trimmer not cut as well, it will probably last you a fraction of the time. Stick with me while I highlight the features and benefits of the Andis Outliner II:

Lets Take a Look at the Features of the Andis Outliner II:

There are various criteria that set the best models apart from the poor imitations but the top 3 you need to consider are:

• The Blade

• The Motor

• The Build Quality

A Quality Blade

The quality of the blade in any trimmer is essential for sculpting and getting those clear, sharp lines. A cheap blade will not be as sharp and will not be made of a strong metal. It could also leave you with burns and rashes, as the blade tugs at the skin rather than slices through the bottom of the hair.

Being a market leader in beard trimmers, you would expect the Andis blade to be quality – it doesn’t disappoint! For a start the blade is made from carbon steel, which lasts up to five times longer than a regular steel blade and stays sharper for longer. Andis also applies a special chrome finish to their blades to reduce corrosion and maintain the highest cutting performance.

Powerful Motor

The driving force behind any clipper or trimmer is obviously the motor. It is essential the motor not only delivers good power to the trimmer blade, but also lasts many years without a drop in performance.

The motor inside the Outliner II incorporates a powerful magnet motor which utilizes electricity to drive the trimmer blade. The result is an incredibly powerful motor that runs longer and quieter than conventional rotary motors.

Unfortunately there’s still no technology to prevent the build up of heat radiating to the blade, and after 10 to 15 minutes of continual use, the blade does become quite hot. So if you are going to use this trimmer for a business, you will need to purchase some cooling spray.

A Branded Name

Sure, a brand name doesn’t mean the product is going to be any good. But when it comes to personal grooming, including clippers and trimmers, leading manufacturers such as Andis, Oster and Wahl, produce quality products. Their reputation is built on quality and buying from a name like Andis gives you that extra confidence.

Designed and engineered in the United States, the Andis Outliner II also comes with a 12 month warranty, not like you’ll need it though.

Design and Build Quality

Two things to mention here; The design of the Andis Outliner II is by no means a work of art. It is a plain white plastic color and has a shell-like effect for grip. It also comes with a heavy-duty, 8ft cord and a little loop so you can hook it up when not in use.

To be honest, its not the sexiest looking trimmer out there! But the build quality more than makes up for it’s pug-like looks!

Who Is It For?

As this is a top of the range trimmer, the Andis Outliner II can and is, used for frequent home use or by professionals in the hair industry. You don’t need to be skilled in using a trimmer although it might take you a little while to fully get the hang of it.

This trimmer is perfect for trimming necks, beards, mustaches, goatees, side burns and edging around ears. You can also use it to shave your entire face.

If you want to buy these clippers, you can get them cheapest on Amazon through this link

These Trimmers Are For:

• Professionals in the hair industry.

• Frequent home use for anyone wanting to save money and achieve a professional looking cut.

You don’t need to be skilled in using a trimmer although it might take you a little while to fully get the hang of it.

Here’s what current owners have to say about it:

“Every guy with sensitive skin should own one“

“I suffer from razor burn and every razor or electric shaver I own tears up my face leaving it red and sore. The Andis Pro Trimmer is as close as you can get to a perfect shave without a rash.” Paraphrased for size — view original review here

“This Trimmer is Second to NONE”.

“I’ve owned this model since 1998 and use it twice a week to shave my face and do some outline work. It is still going strong all these years later!” Paraphrased for size — view original review here

“My only wish is that I had bought one sooner.”

“The Andis Outliner II is quieter and works much faster than previous trimmer models. I have to dry shave because I have sensitive skin and these rock! The cash spent on these was well worth it.” Paraphrased for size — view original review here

Almost every review I’ve read about this much sought after trimmer has been positive and full of examples of how guys have achieved a better ‘look’ and ‘cut’ than their previous trimmer gave them and how easier on the skin it is.

Where Can I Buy It?

As you would expect, this is a very popular model. You can buy the Andis Outliner II 04603 Professional Beard Trimmer in various online and offline stores but you will probably get the best deal at Amazon.com. Amazon always deliver within a day or 2 and you can return it within 14 days if you’re not 100% satisfied.

Pete

The extra cost in paying for a really good trimmer will easily be recouped within a few months and the difference in cut and finish will be instantly noticeable.

A well styled and trimmed beard or goatee, not only looks good, it shows people you take pride in your appearance. To achieve the best look possible you need to spend a few minutes at least twice a week, trimming and sculpting your facial hair.

The time investment is quite high, but that’s a small price to pay for looking good, right?!

Unfortunately too many people are prepared to put in this time and effort but do not invest in the right tools for the job. Hey, I was one of them when I first started trimming my beard many years ago. The problem then was that a good professional beard trimmer was far too expensive for the average home user. You had to make do with cheap, poor quality imitations that quite literally hacked at your face!

Affordable, Professional Beard Trimmers

Fortunately today, the price of professional beard trimmers that the hair industry use, has come down to affordable levels so that anyone can purchase one and achieve a top quality, professional look.

I’ve personally used several different models and all of them have given me different results – ranging from the terrible to the near perfect.

If you just want to go straight to my review of my top pick, click here.

What to Look for in a Beard Trimmer

The criteria for choosing a good hair/beard trimmer is pretty much the same as choosing a clipper. You need to ensure it is a quality trimmer that does an excellent job and is reliable for long-term use.

I always start by looking at the top brand names because these companies rely heavily on their reputation to sell their products. If they produce poor trimmers then they’ll soon go out of business.

Check The Feedback

One of the best ways to choose a trimmer (other than to try it first yourself), is to read unbiased reviews like I provide on this site and to read customer reviews from guys who have already purchased it and provided their feedback.

Amazon is great for this. They publish reviews on products even if the review says the product stinks! It’s one of the first places I go before I purchase anything online.

My Top Recommendation

At the time of writing this – February 2011, my top recommended hair trimmer is the Andis Professional 04603 Outliner II Personal Trimmer. It has been my favorite for some time now, despite Andis releasing a newer model – the Andis Styliner M3.

My philosophy is: “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Newer and more expensive, doesn’t always mean better. I’m not saying the Andis Styliner isn’t a good beard trimmer, it is. But right now it doesn’t provide a better cut than what I’m currently using – the Andis Outliner II.

However, if you’re looking for a beard trimmer that looks real cool and sleek, and you don’t mind paying a little more, then the Andis Styliner M3 is the one for you.

Despite the military association, the buzz cut can be a smart, ‘edgy’ cut that is very masculine. It has gained considerable popularity in recent years amongst athletes and celebrities. Famous buzz cuts have included the likes of Brad Pitt, Matthew Fox and David Beckham.

Not only is the buzz cut now considered a ‘cool’ look, it is fairly easy to give and maintain yourself.

Naturally you should use the best hair clipper you can afford, as the end result will invariably reflect this. My top choice is still the Oster Classic 76.

Here are the steps to follow to give yourself the buzz cut look:

Step 1

Decide on what length you want. Instead of going for one length all over, it is fairly easy to taper the length in 2 stages. A number 3 blade or guard on top, a number 2 at the sides and a number 1 around the edges for a tight finish. Remember, the shorter the cut, the less chances of making noticeable mistakes!

Step 2

Start at the top. Secure the number 3 blade or guard to the clipper. Place the guard flat against the forehead and slowly begin cutting from the front to the back of the head just past the crown. Repeat in strips until the top is cut evenly. You should cut down the sides of the head just past the point where the head rounds into the sides.

You will probably need to repeat this process a few times to get the hair completely even. Don’t be afraid to then cut the hair from different directions, especially the crown which grows in a circular pattern.

Step 3

The sides. You’ll need to change blades or guard sizes to the number 2 attachment (¼”). Once the guard is securely in attached, place the guard flat against the side of the head from where the side-burn starts. Run the clipper in a straight line up the side of the head, just past the start of the buzzed top section, where the head begins to round.

The clipper will naturally come away from the head here to provide an even, smooth blend between the two lengths. You might need to spend a little extra time achieving this blend. Buzzing the hair in an outwards ‘scooping’ motion will eliminate any lines or ridges.

Repeat in strips on both sides until complete and go over any missed areas.

Step 4

Finish at the back. It is important you have your mirrors aligned correctly so that you can see the back of your head clearly. Keep the number 2 guard on the clipper and place it flat against the bottom part of the neck. Move slowly up the back of the head until just past the clipped part on top. Like the sides, continue up the head in a straight line allowing the round of the head near the top to provide a natural blend. Repeat in strips until the entire back is cut.

Step 5

Tapering the Sides and Back. Tapering will give you a smooth, blended look around the ears and neck. Attach the number 1 (1/8″) blade or guard. Place the guard at the sideburn and work up to the top of the ear, rocking the clipper out in a scooping motion. Continue around the ear ( you may need to bend the ear with your other hand to give yourself more room and allow you to see what you’re doing) on each side.

Once the sides are finished, do the same at the back, running the clipper up the back of the head and rocking it out at about ear level. The shortest part of the back will go up to meet the shortest part of the sides.

Step 6

Finishing Touches. You should now use your trimmer to create a neat, sharp cut. Start by trimming your sideburns and then your neck. It’s a good idea to create a line with the trimmer and shave everything underneath. Hold your trimmer with the teeth of the blade pointing at your skin to create a clean line.

Step 7

Final Inspection. Once you’ve finished the cut it’s time to inspect the whole head for any missed areas, spots, uneven places or stray hairs. Simply use the correct blade for whichever area you are working on. Areas of the crown and back of the head are often missed, so pay particular attention to them.

Once you’re happy, clean up, hit the shower and bask in the splendour of your new buzz cut!

Some cuts you can perform yourself, while others will be more difficult to achieve without someone elses help.

The Six P’s

Prior, Planning and Preperation, Prevents Poor Performance! Before you start cutting your hair, make sure you have everything you need – clippers, clipper guards, a towel or cape to cover your clothes, a mirror and preferably a swing mirror so you can see your head from all sides. Having both hands free, makes life so much easier.

Make sure the clipper is clean and oiled. Also make sure your hair isn’t caked with gel or wax. Preferably wash and dry the hair before you cut it. It will ensure the hair extends naturally and evenly, making the cut easier to perform.

Top Tips

1. Slow and steady. Never rush your clipper cut or you will greatly increase the chance of making a mistake. Always give yourself plenty of time.

2. Make sure your blade or guard is securely fitted. If the clipper guard pops off mid cut, you could end up with a bald patch (that can only be fixed by shaving your head), so make sure your guard or blade is firmly attached to the clipper before you proceed and after you’ve made changes to the size.

3. Don’t use cheap clippers! If there’s only one piece of advice I could give, it would be to invest in a good quality pair of clippers. You can read my reviews of the best hair clippers that you should consider.

The same goes for a trimmer. The Andis T-Outliner is my top choice. Together they might cost well over a hundred bucks, but they’ll last you for years as well as giving you an excellent, professional finish. Plus you’ll recoup the cost back very soon once you stop paying to go to the barbers.

4. Regular cuts. To keep a sharp, smart looking cut, buzz your head about every two weeks – this will make it much easier to maintain.

Once you’re all set, it’s time to decide what hair style you will be creating. Before you start experimenting with modern, creative styles, you should first learn the basic cuts as described and shown in these step by step guides below.

The Buzz Cut

The Flat Top

There are lots of accessories that I have obtained over the years that compliment and enhance your hair clipping experience!

Some of them are essential, such as hair clipper oil, grease and blade guards. Other products like tonics, sprays and a straight razor are optional, but I find they add a lot of benefits to the whole shaving and grooming process.

If you’ve taken the time and effort to research and purchase a good quality, professional hair clipper then you should also ensure you have the necessary products to compliment it.

Here are my recommendations and advise..

Manual Hair Clippers

This may seem a bit of a red hearing, but I wanted to include them as an accessory because I think they’re awesome, and yet they scare the hell out of me at the same time!!

The ‘manual’ or hand clippers were the first type of hair clipper to be invented in the 19th century and were once widely used, especially in the military and prisons and obviously operate without the need for electricity.

You can still see this type of clipper being used today by traditional or ‘old school’ barbers who are skilled at using them, and are still commonly used in India. They can be purchased at specialist shops or online.

Manual hair clippers take a lot longer and more skill to achieve the same results as an electric model, but still produce an effective and professional looking result.. in the right hands! My advise however; “don’t try this at home!”

Hair Clipper Blades/Guards

Depending on which model of hair clipper you have, clipper guards may or may not come with it.

Guards are simply attachments that fit over the blade and ensures the blade cuts the hair at a uniform length. If your clipper only has one permanent blade, then you will need a set of clipper guards.

A full guard set to buy is pretty cheap and is always a good idea to buy them at the same time as  your clipper.

Some of the Oster and Andis models have both blade guards and individual size cutting blades.

You can read my detailed article regarding Oster Classic 76 blades, as well as my indepth review of the Oster Classic 76.

Clipper Oil / Grease

Regularly oiling your clippers will without doubt extend their lifespan. A simple rule to follow is; ‘little and often’. Every time you use your hair clippers, lightly oil them. If you get into that habit of applying 2 or 3 drops in between the blades, you’ll keep the moving parts of the blade nice and sharp and working effectively.

Most manufacturers don’t supply much oil, which bugs me because it is the lifeblood of your clipper. You’ll probably receive a small tube, with enough oil to last a few months, depending on how often you use the clippers.

I suggest you buy some extra clipper oil before you run out and preferably when you buy your new clipper.

Clipper grease should be used very sparingly. Check the instructions or manual that ships with your clipper.

Clipper Blades Carry Case/Storage

For the professionals and clipper connoisseurs amongst you, a clipper blade carry case or storage is a cool and useful accessory to have. It keeps all your blades in order for easy replacing and also does a great job at protecting them from damage and debris. They are ideal if you want to travel with them too.

Andis and Oster both have respective blade holders that are worth the small investment.

Andis Blade Storage/Carry Case	Oster Blade Storage

Hair Clipper Spray

Using hair clipper spray is not only good practise but a legal requirement in some states. Spraying  the blade in between cuts will disinfect it and prevent the spread of germs and bacteria that may have been transferred onto the blade.

Regularly using clipper spray will also lubricate the blades, preventing the build up of rust, and will keep your blade cool in between shaves.

If you run your own hair business or work in the industry you should always spray your clippers in front of the client. The client likes to see it, it looks professional and keeps the blade clean.

Straight Edge or Cut-Throat Razor

A straight or cut-throat razor is very effective at removing the tiny little hairs at the back of the neck and gives a sharper finish than a clipper can. Do not use this yourself for the back of your neck. Always have someone else to do this for you. The blade is extremely sharp and needs to cut the hair at the right angle.

I know a lot of people who have changed over to this type of blade for their daily shave. They say it prevents razor burn and gives a closer shave than their Mac 4 Turbo Battery operated one.

They vary in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. I found a reasonably priced model that works a treat – Feather Nape & Body Razor 3 Piece Set. This straight razor set includes: Razor + Razor Shaving Lotion + 10 Replacement Blades.

Whatever straight razor you buy, it’s always a good idea to apply some shaving lotion first, to prevent the skin from reddening and burning.

Finally you should apply some scented moisturizer to the neck afterwards. This will help reduce any redness and prevent razor burn. I use a regular post shave moisturizer which the same brand as the cologne and shower gel I use, which really gives me a great smell that lasts much longer. Trust me, it will make you feel and smell a whole lot better, and the ladies love it!

Unlike many other professional hair clippers, the Oster 76 gives you 2 options if you want to cut hair at different lengths or styles. One option is to keep the blades you already have and purchase a set of comb guides. These guides snap securely into place and enable different lengths of cut.

The second option is purchase other size blades. It really depends on how often you intend to vary the length of hair cuts (i.e. a frequent user such as a professional barber) and/or what your budget is.

Comb guides for the Oster 76 work perfectly well, and I would advise you to stick with these if you only intend to cut your hair or someone elses occasionally. Or, if you know that you will be cutting hair at say ¼ inch each time, then you might want to purchase the #2 blade separately.

Professionals amongst you will know doubt be interested in purchasing the full range, as you will be changing and using blades frequently.

New Blade Technology

Oster Classic 76 clipper blades are made of exceptional quality and designed to last many years if looked after. Oster recently introduced the new CryogenX blades which are coated with AgION technology. These blades contain a silver-based anti-microbial compound, making them hygienically safe, protecting them from bacteria, mold and mildew. The blades stay cleaner, safer and last longer.

The blades also run at approx 20 degrees cooler than the previous versions thanks to a reduced friction design. Not only does this ensure the blades don’t become too hot and burn the skin, the blades will also run longer between sharpening and eventual replacement.

The Oster 76 blades are not cheap at around $22-$25 each, but then again they are guaranteed to last you a long time and are a good investment for your Oster clipper.

Ease of Use

Changing blades on hair clippers can often be a right, royal pain in the backside! I’ve had clippers where you need to use a fiddley and tiny screwdriver to remove a couple of holding screws and then have to spend ages re-aligning the blades.

Not so the Oster Classic 76 blades! Changing these blades is a piece of cake.

In fact here’s my idiot’s, step by step guide to changing the Oster 76 hair clipper:

1. Make sure the clipper is turned off. Preferably unplugged at the wall and the blade is cool enough to handle.

2. Take the blade at the combed end and pull it away from the clipper head. Doing so will release the holding latch.

3. Hold the blade at the sides and remove it by sliding it off the guide.

4. Before inserting a new blade, now’s a good time for a little house keeping. Clean away any loose hairs or debris from the clipper head. I find an old, hard toothbrush is ideal for this purpose.

5. Fit a new blade by sliding it onto the guide. Push it toward the head of the clipper until it snaps securely into place.

It really is as easy as that and saves messing around with any tools and re-aligning blades etc.

Top Tip:

I highly recommend you purchase at least 1 spare blade when you buy your hair clipper, no matter what brand. Sod’s Law dictates that you will drop it and break the blade exactly when you need to use it most! Having a spare blade in the draw will give you piece of mind, and will save you on shipping costs if you order with your clipper or you order more than one.

Where to Buy Your Oster 76 Clipper Blades?

Like I said, it is best if you order the blades and clipper together. If you already have the clipper and just want the blades, you’ll find it hard to beat the price at Amazon. And you also have the re-assurance and guarantee of returning them if they’re damaged or you ordered the wrong sizes by mistake.

Order your Oster Classic 76 Blades here

Using a nose hair trimmer alongside your other personal, grooming products should be part of your routine.

(Click here or scroll down the page to read my review of the best nose hair trimmer)

Nose and ear hair is a common problem that happens to us guys when we hit the 30 plus age and undergo hormonal changes. Without warning you’ll wake up one day, look in the mirror and notice hair sprouting out of your nose and ears!

There’s nothing we can do to prevent the aging process, and body hair will continue to grow and sprout in the most unattractive of places. However, being well-groomed keeps us looking younger and definitely more attractive to the opposite sex. In fact a lot of men are said to improve with age. This is great, as long as you keep on top of personal hygiene and appearance, which most certainly includes being free of nose and ear hair.

Visible nose and ear hair is one of those big no-no’s. It makes you look like one of your old history teachers from school and is guaranteed to turn the ladies right off!

The Best Way to Get Rid of Nose and Ear Hair

If you’ve ever tried to pull nose hairs out with your fingers, you’ll know that it hurts like hell! And if they are at the length where you are able to grab hold of them, they’re already too long. Also pulling them out by the root won’t prevent them from coming back either. Plus you could damage the delicate lining inside your nostril that could cause small lesions, leading to infection.

The alternative is to use a pair of cutical scissors and trim them. Again this can work, but no matter how careful you are, you nearly always end up stabbing or cutting yourself.

Luckily the answer is simple. Get yourself a decent nose hair trimmer and spend no more than a few seconds every few days, tidying up any protruding hairs.

A nose trimmer is safe, painless and much quicker than any other method. It also doubles up as an ear trimmer and does the job just as well.

Myth: Ear and nose hair won’t grow back thicker or faster once you trim it.

Nose hair trimmers work in 2 different ways. Some trimmers feature a rotating blade that spins round in a continuous direction, while other trimmers work with an oscillating blade that rotates from side to side. Both types work extremely well and are safe and painless!

A good model like the Platinum XL will set you back less than 20 bucks and will last 2 or 3 years at least. There are plenty of others to choose from, but they range from ‘pretty useless’, to ‘not too bad’.

Due to the low entry price for these trimmers, there’s no excuse not to get the best one out there. Anything less is a false economy.

I was going to review the top 3 best nose trimmers currently available. But to be honest there’s just no point. In my honest opinion, based on research and personal use, there is only one model worth considering..The Groom Mate Platinum XL:

Groom Mate Platinum XL Nose & Ear Hair Trimmer

The Platinum XL Nose and Ear Hair trimmer by Groom Mate, is quite simply the best nose and ear hair trimmer on the market. I use this trimmer all the time – and love it! Here’s why..

The Groom Mate company have been making and refining this model for over 10 years. They are so confident that you’ll be absolutely delighted with the results, they offer an unconditional lifetime warranty and a money back guarantee if you’re not happy with them.

Now that’s a pretty bold statement in anyone’s language and it fills you with a lot of confidence when purchasing it. I’ve been using mine for around 12 months now and couldn’t be happier with it.

What makes this trimmer so unique, is two-fold; first of all it’s solid stainless steel casing, which makes it almost indestructible and rust proof. Secondly it is operated simply by rotating the base with your hand. No batteries, no cords and easily portable.

Here are some of the Features of the Platinum XL:

• Made from 100% stainless steel for a near indestructible and smart-looking trimmer.

• Manual operation, so no need to buy batteries or charge it up from the mains. Makes it very easy to pack in a wash bag and take away with you.

• Uses a patented rotary blade system that is guaranteed to never dull and to never pull or yank out nostril hairs. Nose hairs are gently and painless trimmed without cutting or nicking the sensitive lining of your nostril.

• Includes an unconditional lifetime warranty and a money-back guarantee if not satisfied.

Here’s a video demonstrating the features and design of the Platinum XL Nose and Ear Hair Trimmer:

If you want to buy these trimmers, you can get them cheapest on Amazon through this link

How to Operate the Platinum XL

It couldn’t be easier. First of all you need both hands. Insert the trimmer about 1/8th of an inch into your nostril or ear. With your other hand rotate the base of the handle left and right. It sounds like a primitive operation, but often the most successful products are the simple ones, and this works like a dream.

Maintenance

There is no maintenance involve ither than cleaning the trimmer. Simply wash the head under a running tap after use, or use alcohol. It’s stainless steel, so will never rust!

The Platinum XL Nose and Ear Hair trimmer is all you need to keep those pesky nose and ear hairs away, and will probably last longer than you!

Where Can I Buy It?

Forget the cheap and nasty nose trimmers you see in stores. You won’t be happy with the results and you will only have to buy something else. Save yourself the hassle and go get the Platinum XL. Your best bet is to order from Amazon.com. They are as cheap as anywhere and will deliver within a day or 2.

Pete

Don’t think for one minute that all clippers are pretty much the same. If you’ve been using cheap $15 – $25 models then I expect you’ve not been entirely satisfied with the results. The difference between those poor excuses, and a clipper like the Wahl balding clipper has to be experienced to be believed.

This Wahl Balding Clipper is specifically designed to remove all of your head hair, or at least 99% of it! The cutting blade adjusts to zero overlap compared to regular clippers, which means the blade is  almost cutting straight onto the head.

Most men who go for the bald look actually prefer a slight covering to give the head some texture. These clippers are ideal for that look and will achieve the equivalent of a single days hair growth.

Check out the look so successfully achieved by actor Jason Statham.

You can still achieve the full bald effect if that’s what you’re after, it will just take a little longer.

Lets Take a Look at the Features of the Wahl Balding Clipper:

• Single cut clipper with surgical blades to achieve complete balding.

• Powerful V5000 motor that is twice the speed of regular pivot motor clippers.

• Comes with 2 cutting guides at 1/16 inch and 3/16 inch.

• The balding clipper comes in a box, complete with comb, pre-brush shave, blade guard, lubricating oil, cleaning brush and manual.

Here’s a good video that goes through the box contents of a brand new Wahl balding clipper:

If you want to buy these clippers, you can get them cheapest on Amazon through this link

These Clippers Are For:

• Professional barbers or home use.

• These clippers will happily sustain daily use as long as they are looked after and well maintained.

Conclusion

The Wahl Professional 8110 5-star Series Balding Clipper is without doubt the best balding clipper currently on the market. Ideal for professional barbers and hair salons or anyone who wants the bald or near bald look. The price is pretty good too at under $50 considering the quality of this clipper.  And as long as you maintain it properly, it should last you plenty of years.

If you’re new to shaving your head, be careful with these clippers. They are extremely sharp and cut very close to the head. Keep the blade ‘square on’ to the head at all times. Slowly and carefully does it!

You’ll never achieve a shave as close as a manual razor, but this is as close as you’ll get.

Let me show you what current owners have to say about it:

“Fantastic Balding Clipper”., By D.Dsa

Thanks for taking the time to read my review. If you have any questions or comments regarding the Wahl Professional 8110 5-star Series Balding Clipper, please drop them below..

Pete

You obviously want to look your best at all times, and part of that grooming process is shaving every morning. Noone particualrly likes shaving but it’s just one of those tasks that needs to be done. And before you decide to opt for the beard look, research has shown that men who regularly shave, have more appeal to women than those who don’t! Good enough reason to keep at it?!

Now you might think that shaving is a simple enough task that you undertake day in, day out. Well it is. But if you’re going to shave every day, you may as well do it right and get the best result you can.

Follow my 8 step shaving tips and you’ll be looking the ‘business’ in no time!

Step 1 – Razor Selection

Before you even begin to shave it is important you have a good quality razor. A multi-blade is probably the way to go. The more expensive named ones do perform better than store’s own brands.

Just ensure you replace the blade as soon as you see it starting to dull and feel it tugging and pulling at your face hair. A blunt blade causes rashes and red blotches.

Step 2 – Cream or Gel

Depending on your skin type, you should use either a cream or a gel that is for ‘normal’ or sensitive skin. If your skin looks very red around the neck area after shaving, try using a gel for sensitive or very sensitive skin. Also make sure the razor blade is still sharp.

Try experimenting with both types, and with gel and cream to see what works best for your skin. Also buy a product that is Aloe Vera and vitamin based for a soothing finish and to protect against razor rashes and burns.

Step 3 – Never Shave as Soon as You Wake Up

It is important to give your face time to wake up and regenerate itself after a nights sleep. Your face will be slightly puffy due to fluids gravitating there during the night and your facial hair will be squashed down, which makes it harder for the razor to cut properly. Ideally have some breakfast, then have your shower or wash before shaving.

Step 4 – Wash and Exfoliate

Make sure you splash your face with warm or hot water. Doing so will swell the hair shaft allowing the blade to cut the hair as close down to the skin as possible. You should also use an exfoliator every few days to remove dead skin cells and open blocked pores.

Step 5 – Use a Brush

Most men simply slap some cream or gel onto their face and work it around so it covers all the areas needing shaving.

I suggest you use a shaving brush. A brush will ensure a rich, creamy lather and will also lift the stubble away from the skin making it easier to cut. It takes the same length of time to apply and will give you a better shave.

Use as much gel or cream as necessary. Too much cream will just hinder the cutting process, where as too little and the shave will be painful.

Step 5 – Shave With The Grain

I’m sure you’ve heard about shaving the same way your hair grows. If you shave against the grain you risk razor burn,inflamed skin, red rashes and possible ingrowing hairs. I personally shave across the grain, from nose to ear which doesn’t cause any irritation and still gives a close finish.

Step 6 – The Shave

Use light short strokes and regularly rinse your razor in warm water to clear the debris. Try and stretch your skin by twisting your jaw or pulling the skin down. This will tighten the skin and give a cleaner, closer cut.

Step 7 – Rinse and Pat Dry

Once you’re done, splash some cool water onto the face to get rid of any excess cream. The cool water will also close up your pores which stops dirt and dust getting into them. Pay dry your face rather than rub or you could inflame the skin.

Step 8 – Moisturize

Real men moisturize! The days of splashing alcohol based aftershave onto your face after a shave are long gone! Not only does it sting like hell, it also drys out the skin and causes irritation and rashes. Even these menthol moisturizers, designed to give you a ‘cool, fresh feeling’ contain alcohol.

Instead apply an oil free moisurizer, rich in Aloe Vera and essential nutrients. You’ll feel much better for it and you skin will look radiant and healthy looking.

Conclusion

There you have it! The ultimate shave for a man who really wants to look his best. It doesn’t take much to adjust to this new routine and the extra minute or two is well worth the effort.

If you have any comments or would like to share your own shaving tips, please drop them below.

Pete