I recently switched from modern multi-blade razors to a traditional safety razor. Finding that multiple blades were skidding ineffectively over my skin, I bought a cheap Wilkinson safety razor with five double-edge (DE) blades in search of a closer shave.
I have to say that it has transformed my shaving. However, as confidence grew, I wanted to try a better razor and a wider range of blades and shaving products. The I discovered The Personal Barber who send a box (as shown below) which provides all you need to get started with a traditional safety razor. This is followed by a monthly box with replacement blades and samples of shaving soaps and products such as oils, colognes, soaps and pre- and after-shaves.
I have to say that it has transformed my shaving. However, as confidence grew, I wanted to try a better razor and a wider range of blades and shaving products. The I discovered The Personal Barber who send a box (as shown below) which provides all you need to get started with a traditional safety razor. This is followed by a monthly box with replacement blades and samples of shaving soaps and products such as oils, colognes, soaps and pre- and after-shaves.
With the first box The Personal Barber gives excellent advice for the inexperienced double-edge blade shaver. One thing I learned was that different brands produce slightly different blades. Having tried Wilkinson and Derby Extra blades, I've found that the latter suit me better, being sightly less aggressive and lasting a day or two longer. Double-edge blades last for 5 to 7 shaves. This is less than multiple blades, but a DE blade can cost well under 10p each if bought in bulk, while multiple blades can cost £1 each.
Bradley Jones of The Personal Barber tells me that,
"The underlying aim of The Personal Barber is to get people to enjoy the act of shaving itself rather than seeing it as a daily chore. Wet shaving tends to be a far more enjoyable experience, I believe, because it is more of a ritual and because it requires technique. The ritual of wet shaving is very calm and satisfying which can be needed in the morning. The technique involved in wet shaving such as building a thick lather, holding the blade at the right angle, applying the correct level of pressure etc means it doesn't become a mindless task which can be the case when using plastic cartridge razors. I've found that most wet shavers look forward to shaving because of these two reasons but particularly because they enjoy the process of getting better and better as time goes on."I have to say that I now agree with him. Go to The Personal Barber for more information. For 20% discount for life, quote code SMOOTHSHAVE4LIFE20.
For those who think traditional wet shaving (brush/soap, DE razor) is a production or time consuming, I shave rather leisurely, I think, and it's still no more than about ten minutes, and feels great.
ReplyDeleteDon't count on saving money, though; there's a world of wonderful soaps, brushes, creams, etc. out there, and it's addictive. Still cheaper than almost any other hobby, though
I don't know, man... been trying to buy into this painfull shaving revival for a few good months and I gave up eventually. I guess I'm not man enough, but those safety blades are painfull as hell to use. I'm back to multiple-blade gilettes and very happy to be honest. Kept the other things though, shaving soap and brush are great, I like them much more than foaming gels.
ReplyDeleteoh dear it's a slippy slope, soon you'll have 40 razors and be trying out different brands of blade!
ReplyDeleteRapira pink & blue box blades are excellent by the way and you may wish to try an open comb razor an early Gillette is always a good bet....Badger & Blade and the UK's The Shaving Room are both excellent sources of info on all things shaving.
Dear Mr. Fox:
ReplyDeleteI did this several years ago and have never looked back. I like Merkur blades and razor, Muhle best badger shaving brush, and D.R. Harris shaving bowl and soap, which smells nice, but is not strong enough to throw off any scent that you may choose to use later.
All of this can set you back some coin, so taking care of this stuff and making it last is important. I soak my razor and brush in a mixture of hot water and vinegar (watch out around marble bath fixtures) with a few drops of dish soap, and then carefully scrub with a repurposed toothbrush when the soap/scale build up gets nasty. I've had the same razor and brush for about 7 years and they are still going strong. A stand for the razor and brush is also worth the investment, as it lets the brush dry properly.
Best regards
StymieG
Many thanks all - to anon who found it hard to adjust to safety blades; try different types, I've found the Derby blades much more forgiving than Wilkinson, resulting in fewer cuts, longer life and easier shaving.
ReplyDeleteGF
Many men are enjoying all of the benefits of a best safety razor blades that include more than the simple pleasure of feeling the luxurious warm lather on your face.
ReplyDeleteNice! I just signed up with http://www.primalmanshaveclub.com. Not a bad deal and with full sized soaps. Anyone heard of these guys?
ReplyDeleteThe safety razor is a traditional shaving tool. It helps to prevent razor prevent razor burn. It also helps to prevent lots of skin infection like acne. The price of a safety razor is cheaper than a cartridge razor. Shaving with safety razor
ReplyDelete