I’ve just read about Gillette’s new razor, the ‘Fusion’ – this thing has five blades plus a sixth blade on the rear for ‘precision trimming’. For Pete’s sake, how many blades do you need? Well, I’ll tell you. One.
When I started shaving as a teenager, I hated it; I had terrible razor rash and suffered the whole day with a sore face. The problem was that I really had no idea how to shave. I eventually gave in and grew a kinda beard; looking back on old photographs, this was a mistake.
A year or so later, I was in the Body Shop buying something or other, and found a small leaflet that changed everything. I can’t remember what it was called, but it should have been called Shaving For Dummies. I quickly read it and thought, ahhhh, so that’s how you do it. Pretty much everything I’d be doing was wrong.
I went and bought a razor and shaving cream, and have never looked back.
Being the compulsive, obsessive gadget freak I am, I have tried many different razors, gels, soaps, creams, and oils, and over time have found that the simpler the product, the better the result. This is why I find the new multi-blade razors so amusing.
I’m now shaving with what can only be described as retro equipment.
I use a traditional shaving brush and shaving cream; my brand of choice is George Trumper. I’m currently using the sandalwood, which is marvellous. The recipe hasn’t changed since King Edward was on the thrown and it is amazing. You just need to dip the end of your brush’s bristles in the cream, and you will have more lather than you can use.
Then I use a Merkur Razor – yep, that’s right, a safety razor like your Dad or your Grandad used, albeit a very nice modern take on a classic design.
You’ll notice that this razor has only one blade in contact with your face at a time, but you know what… I have never had a more comfortable or closer shave in my life.
The secret to a good shave is water and warmth.
- Shave after your morning shower or bath, as this will help make your beard softer and easier to shave.
- Use a brush, as this helps work the shaving cream into your beard and, most importantly, lifts the hairs from your skin, making them even easier to shave.
- Use a sharp blade. Use as many as you wish, but you have to try a classic safety razor.
- Rinse with cold water to close the pores.
- Use an after-shave balm or cream. DO NOT use aftershave unless you want to undo all your hard work.
Most importantly – enjoy.