Best methods to map your beard grain for a smooth shave

I’ve been trying to figure out the best way to map my beard grain to avoid irritation. Letting it grow for a few days and using a credit card to feel the direction seems to work. What techniques have you found effective?

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Try shaving across the grain first—less irritation, still close.

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Mapping beard grain effectively involves more than just feeling the direction with a credit card. For a precise approach, consider using a diagram to record growth patterns in different facial zones, as hair direction can vary significantly. Additionally, incorporating an alum block post-shave can highlight areas where you might still be shaving against the grain unintentionally, providing immediate feedback for adjustments. While shaving across the grain, as mentioned, balances closeness and irritation, a three-pass method—with, across, and then against the grain—can optimize results for those seeking a closer shave without excessive irritation, provided your technique and skin prep are thorough.