HOW TO ACHIEVE THE PERFECT CHISKOP

For as long as we can remember, the custom of a chiskop was and is a hairstyle norm for black men. The look is clean and classic, cool in every sense of the word, and many feel that the look is masculine and affirms one’s manhood. We’re not here to debate the habit but to give you the best advice on achieving the perfect chiskop.

There are two key ways of achieving your chiskop:

1. Mechanical – using clippers or a blade, one can experience this at a barber or achieve this on your own at home. There are pros and cons to both scenarios:

• A barber generally has more skill, so there’s less chance of nicks and cuts. Ensure the barber uses a clean blade when performing your chiskop; otherwise, you risk cross-contamination. 
• At-home use is more convenient, with no transport costs, and is more hygienic, but you need to develop the skill to execute it effectively.

In both instances, you may need resources like batteries or electricity, which we know are unreliable. However, the main disadvantage of using a mechanical means to shave your head is that the hairs get cut off at an angle, creating a sharp tip or point. This can create uncomfortable regrowth and make one more predisposed to razor bumps.

2. Product: Using a hair removal lotion or cream enables you to achieve your chiskop wherever you are and whenever it’s convenient for you.

• No skills are required other than performing a patch test to determine your skin’s compatibility. There’s no risk of nicks or cuts or cross-contamination, so it’s a more hygienic option overall.  
• At-home hair removal also means no transport costs and the product is load-shedding friendly. 

The active ingredients in the formulation break down the hair’s protein structure, making it weak. When the cream is wiped off, the hair “tears”, leaving a soft, feathered tip. This produces slower, more comfortable regrowth and reduces the incidence of razor bumps.

For us, using a hair removal lotion like DX Smooth Zero Hair is a no–brainer—but admittedly, we are biased! Based on our years of experience and insight and the triumph of hundreds of thousands of successfully executed chiskops, here’s our advice on how to accomplish it perfectly.

1. TRIM DOWN Trim longer hair down to 2 – 3 mm before using the product. Before each use, ensure you’ve done the requisite patch test to determine your skin’s compatibility. Your skin should be clean ( not necessarily freshly washed ) and dry.
2. SPREAD IT ON Apply a thick layer all over your head, ensuring each hair is thoroughly coated with the product. Spread evenly, but do not rub in. Replace the cap on the packaging and rinse your hands thoroughly. Wait for 5 – 10 minutes.
3. TAKE IT OFF After 5 minutes, using a spatula or soft, damp cloth, remove the lotion from a small area. If the hair is removed easily, continue and complete the removal process. If not, wait a little longer, but stay within 10 minutes in total. Use smooth, even strokes against the direction of hair growth. Rinse the area thoroughly with warm water. 
4. FINISHING TOUCHES: Give your skin some TLC by finishing with DX Smooth Bump Shield Treatment Cream. This soothes and calms any irritation, nourishes and moisturises the skin, and contains antimicrobial actives to negate the risk of infection. Apply twice daily for 2 – 3 days until your skin feels calm and comfortable. Avoid the use of any products that contain alcohol, as this can cause dry skin, irritation, and even burning. 

Our Top Tip: Your skin constantly changes, so a patch test before each chiskop is a must, even if you’re a regular user. As with shaving, skin can be vulnerable after using a hair removal product. Keep your skin well hydrated and protect it against excessive sun or cold.