How to Get a Barber Shop Shave at Home

Guest Post by Liam McClure:

The modern man’s shaving routine has become a nightmare. While quickly rushing to get ready for work, men have to uncomfortably lean over a sink, splash water on their faces, hurriedly shave, and then slap on some horribly stinging aftershave. However, men are beginning to realize that not only is this experience unpleasant, it also places unnecessary damage and stress on the skin. This has led to the barber shop shave fast becoming a popular trend again. But, this practice sometimes comes with a steep price tag. Thankfully, it can be duplicated at home.

Tools Needed:

• Good quality razor
• Shaving cream or soap cake
• Shaving brush
• Shaving mug (optional)

Prepping the Skin

Before starting, take a hot shower or place a hot towel on the face for several minutes. This opens the pores, softens the hairs, and makes it less likely that any nicking will occur. In some cases pre-shaving oil may be needed where the hair is courser than normal or the skin is more sensitive. Remember to keep the face wet during the entire process.

Next, run hot water into a basin or sink and place your shaving brush in to soak. A badger shaving brush is the most favored due to its ability to hold water longer, its smoothness on the face, and durability.

After two minutes of soaking, the shaving brush should be placed upside down until all excess water drains from the bristles.

Lathering

The shaving brush should then be placed in a shaving mug where the shaving cream or cake soap is waiting. Just the tips of the brush should be placed in the shaving cream without creating any unnecessary lathering. Loading shaving cream onto the bristles is the goal, not creating lather.

Now apply the shaving cream to the face in a circular fashion ensuring a good lather. A good lather allows the blade to glide effortlessly across the skin and lifts the whiskers for a closer cut. The redness and irritation attributed to modern day shaving is attributed to the skin dragging of the blades due to not using proper amounts of lathering. It also allows the shaving cream to works its way deep into the pores which will provide lubrication and protection from the blade.

Shaving

Good quality electric shavers can be used in this step but to get the true experience, use a razor that is double-sided or straight. Shaving should always follow the grain of the hair with the focus being on cutting the hair and not cutting the hair away from the skin. Also make sure to clean the razor and lather up again as you go.

Finishing Up

Once you have acquired the cut and look you want, rinse your face with cold water. This closes the pores and soothes any stinging sensation.

Pat your face dry and then apply aftershave or a moisturizing cream. Daily use of a moisturizer will help to keep the skin soft and easier to cut when the next shave comes around.

There are many reasons why the barber shop shave is becoming popular again. The warm towels and rhythmic motions help to relax and soothe men after a hard day of work. Some say it is the equivalent of a day at the spa for a woman. They are also capable of creating closer shaves, achieving longer lasting results, and they can be duplicated at home.

Liam McClure writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

image via aroid

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