Pivot Point Barbering 108 Practice Exam

How is a once-over shave accomplished?

1. Shaving against the grain with a heavy hand

2. Shaving across the grain with more strokes and a light hand

3. Shaving with the grain rapidly

4. Shaving at an angle for precision

The correct answer is: Shaving across the grain with more strokes and a light hand

A once-over shave is achieved by utilizing a technique that focuses on shaving across the grain, allowing for a smoother finish while minimizing irritation to the skin. This method involves using more strokes and applying a lighter hand, which helps to effectively remove hair without causing undue stress to the skin or resulting in cuts. When shaving across the grain, you can better adapt the pressure and angle of the razor to the contours of the face, leading to a more thorough and comfortable shave. This approach is beneficial for achieving closeness while accommodating the natural direction of hair growth. It also reduces the risk of razor burn and ingrown hairs, making it a preferred technique for many barbers. In contrast, shaving against the grain with a heavy hand can lead to skin irritation and a higher likelihood of nicks or cuts. Shaving with the grain rapidly may not provide the closeness desired in a once-over shave. Shaving at an angle for precision typically focuses on outlining or detailing rather than a standard shave, which is not the primary focus of a once-over shave. Thus, option B best encapsulates the technique that balances effectiveness and skin safety for a successful and comfortable shave.