While some men prefer scruff, others like the look of a clean-shaven face. Unfortunately for those who enjoy a stubble-free appearance, the seemingly inevitable five o’clock shadow has the potential to become his worst enemy.

Instead of looking for ways to slow beard growth, men may want to reconsider their morning routine. According to Men’s Health, many men don’t get a close enough shave, prompting facial hair to seem as if it is growing back too quickly.

“Preparation of the beard is the most important factor,” Dr Douglas Altchek, a professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai school of medicine, told the publication. To ensure the closest shave possible, men should shower first to soften up their skin, apply a preshave oil to create a slick surface and then coat their scruff with a lubricating shave gel.

Dermalogica produces formulas perfect for men who are looking to reduce the chance of a five o’clock shadow. The brand’s Close Shave Oil conditions facial hair while encouraging razor glide, and their Soothing Shave Cream lubricates skin to provide a close shave.

However, men may also want to replace their razor blades more often. “A razor loses 5 percent of its sharpness after every shave, so after five shaves, a quarter of the sharpness is gone,” Dr Altchek told the publication.