Ashkan Hobian on Grooming Routines, Facial Hair Trends, & the Braun Series 9 Pro+

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The season of celebration takes many shapes: family reunions, neighbourhood parties, office gift swaps. Accordingly, December is a month of many dress codes. To prepare for the busy weeks ahead, we spoke with a series of stylish creators. One thing we learned? Clothing isn’t the only way to switch up your style. For fashion enthusiast Ashkan Hobian, the right grooming regimen can accentuate an outfit. 

“It’s about having options and letting your grooming complement your style rather than define it,” he says in a Q&A with SHARP. Hobian’s take comes as no surprise: the creator rocks a polished moustache, framed by a shadow of freshly-trimmed stubble. It’s instantly recognizable, yet never distracting. Below, Hobian details his favourite shaving tools, predicts future grooming trends, and tells us how he found his signature look. 

For many men, facial hair is subject to change — whether it’s growing a full beard, trying out a moustache, or going for a clean-shaven look. Do you prefer a signature look, or have you experimented with various styles? What led you to embrace your current look?

I’ve definitely experimented over the years, from trying a full beard to a subtle stubble, even rocking a clean-shaven look occasionally. But lately, I’ve landed on something that feels like me: a clean shave that grows into a well-groomed, natural stubble with my moustache. It’s low maintenance but still polished, and it still contours my face in the kind of elevated-yet-effortless style I gravitate toward.

Have you faced any challenges when it comes to dialling in your grooming routine?

Absolutely. I think the biggest challenge is balancing efficiency with precision. The density of my beard leans on the thicker side, so I’ve had to figure out which products and tools give me a clean shave with little to no irritation. Oh also, timing matters too. Shaving right before a night out versus in the morning can make a difference in how smooth and fresh I feel.

Shaving products are personal; depending on your skin type — as well as your facial hair texture, style, and speed of growth — results will vary from person to person. As an electric shaver, the Braun Series 9 Pro+ has several elements that are easily tailored for each user. Which modes or features work for you? How does this product compare to other devices you’ve used?  

What really works for me is how adaptive it is. The different modes let me go from a routine morning shave to a more thorough shave and style without feeling like I’m compromising comfort. And, with the AutoSense Technology, the shaver’s power automatically adjusts to the density of my beard, so I get a clean shave in fewer strokes — with less irritation. Compared to other devices I’ve used, this one is noticeably smoother and gentler, it just glides, even over denser patches, without that tugging feeling we sometimes experience.

Facial hair grows quickly — that’s one of its best and worst qualities. How frequently do you shave, and how does this impact your overall grooming routine? 

I shave every 2–3 days. It’s enough to keep my stubble looking sharp without feeling unkempt. Staying consistent really affects my overall look; even a subtle trim can make an outfit feel more intentional.

How much of an impact does your facial hair have on your overall style aesthetic? Does a fresh shave make you approach your fit differently?

Facial hair is a huge part of my overall aesthetic. A fresh shave instantly elevates how I approach a look, even something casual feels more put-together when my grooming is on point. I remember once wearing a relaxed, “retro-luxe” outfit, and a quick stubble shave made the whole vibe feel cohesive rather than sloppy. It shocks me how much impact it has. I always say it’s makeup for men.

The Braun Series 9 Pro+ supports both wet and dry shaving. Which method do you prefer?

I tend to lean towards a dry shave. It’s faster, and with the Braun Series 9 Pro+, it’s just as comfortable and smooth as wet. That said, if I’m doing a closer shave or prepping for a special event, I’ll go wet for the extra closeness.

Moustaches have been back in full force for a few years now. Where do you see facial hair going in the future; are there any specific trends that excite you? 

I think we’ll continue seeing the revival of moustaches and more creative, statement facial hair. Personally, I like the idea of subtle versatility: keeping stubble natural, maybe mixing in a styled moustache or short beard. It’s about having options and letting your grooming complement your style rather than define it. 

Still curious about today’s top grooming trends? Read our conversations with fellow creators Donté Colley and Lexson Millington next.