Wet shaving is shaving with shaving soap or shaving oil and various accessories such as a shaving brush and shaving bowl . This is in contrast to "dry shaving", where men only use an electric shaver. In this article we explain exactly what wet shaving is, what the benefits of wet shaving are, what you need for it and how you can proceed.
What is wet shaving?
The name may already give away the answer, but just in case there's any doubt, wet shaving basically means "to shave with water". So there is no electric shaver involved. For a traditional wet shave, you'll also need some form of shaving soap or cream to lather your face effectively. A shaving brush is also included. This can be a traditionally made shaving brush with badger hair, boar hair, horse hair or synthetic bristles. A traditional wet shave uses a single-blade razor. Wet shaving can be done with either a straight razor or a safety razor.
Although traditional wet shaving may initially seem a bit more expensive than using an electric shaver and/or modern disposable razors, in fact it doesn't have to be. A single expense is usually enough to last for months. Plus, it's about your face, so it's worth the investment!
Why wet shave?
The men who have experience with wet shaving are more than aware of the benefits of wet shaving. A traditional wet shave simply gives a smoother result and a cleaner feeling skin than using an appliance or disposable blade.
Reduced discomfort
Wet shaving can also help you reduce the uncomfortable effects of shaving, such as ingrown hairs. While many men think they have sensitive skin, due to razor burn and other side effects from shaving, in fact it's probably just the type of razor and the products used. Most of the negative effects of shaving are the result of not having the right, often cheap, products.
Comparatively cheaper
In fact, wet shaving can be significantly less expensive than using multi-blade plastic razors. While a safety razor and shaving brush can be an investment, replacement blades are much cheaper for safety razors and shaving soaps and creams last much longer than a shaving cream or gel used in combination with disposable blades.
It's a fun activity
Many men preceded you and have exchanged their modern razor blades and/or shaver for the traditional wet shave. All in all, traditional wet shaving is less hassle and will give you more pleasure. Careful shaving with quality products, which give a more luxurious feeling, will not only give you better results, but will also make shaving much more fun to do!
What it comes down to; wet shaving is a much better shave that reduces or prevents skin irritation.
Wet shaving step-by-step plan
Now we are going to explain step by step how you can make your traditional wet shave a success.
What do you need
-
Lukewarm water
Water is indispensable, it softens your beard, lubricates your pores and prepares your face for a shave. There are men who like to shave at the sink, after a nice hot shower. This is of course ideal, as the mustache and beard hairs have just been warmed up and cleaned. But it's also a good idea to skip the shower and just put a nice warm towel on your chin. -
Shaving brush
You use a shaving brush to create the lather and apply it to your face. In terms of shaving brush, you can choose from badgers, horses, boars and synthetic hair, it just depends on which type of brush best suits your face and wishes. -
Shaving bowl
The use of a shaving bowl is not essential, but it does give you the opportunity to create the best shaving cream. -
Shaving soap or shaving cream
When wet shaving you obviously want to use a quality soap or cream to whip up a shaving foam with your shaving brush. For most men, we recommend starting with creams - it's very easy to whip up a nice bowl.
Whether you use a soap or a cream, it is important to whip a shaving cream that resembles whipped cream. To do this, you may need to vary the amount of water on your shaving brush to find out what amount creates the best lather. -
Razor
Just one blade - as long as it's sharp - is fine and much less irritating to the skin than a razor with multiple blades. We recommend using a type of razor with one blade, a Safety Razor is the best step. Right for the real thing? That is also possible, with a straight razor or straight razor . -
Alum, Aftershave
It is wise to end your traditional shave with a splash of cold water that soothes and closes your pores. Then you can use a nice aftershave . When your skin is soft and sensitive, you want your aftershave alcohol-free to avoid irritation. A good aftershave soothes and hydrates your skin.
Our wet shaving toppers
To work
- Start by applying a lukewarm wet towel or taking a shower to soften the hair and skin.
- Some men find applying a pre-shave oil or lotion helpful to create a super smooth face before applying the shaving cream.
- Whip up a shaving cream of shaving soap or a traditional shaving cream in a bowl, mug or directly on the face with a shaving brush. This not only creates a lot of lather, but it lifts the facial hairs for a super close shave.
- Many men find that it is ideal to take several passes with a safety razor or a straight razor and apply cream between passes. It's best to shave with the grain, across the grain, and finally against the grain if your skin isn't overly sensitive.
- Finish your shave with a nice cool rinse to remove excess shaving cream, then apply an aftershave if necessary. If you really want to smell good all day long, add a little eau de cologne!