The Razor Guide by Barbarossa Brothers
Your quest for the perfect razor shave ends here, as we delve into the realm of razors and shavers, uncovering the secrets to a smooth, irritation-free visage. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious novice, buckle up for a shaving experience that transcends the ordinary.
Chapter 1: The Razor Rendezvous
Suitable for those looking for a close, clean shave.
1.1 Cartridge Razors:
The vast majority of landlubbers use cartridge razors, sold on the promise it’s the ‘best a man can get”.
These razors offer up to 5 blades within a single shaving head and many people are content with the close shave they provide and the convenience of being able to buy replacement blades from local stores.
Cartridge blades often cut the hair below the skin which can cause shaving rash, bumps and ingrown hairs. Replacement blades are expensive. Finally no-one is going to comment on how exciting your cartridge razor is, it’s just average shaving for average men.
Skill level: 0
1.2 Double Edge Safety Razor:
Step into the world of timeless elegance. The double edge safety razor offers precision and control, making each stroke a work of art.
Shaving with a safety razor is a natural progression from cartridge razors, offering a similar shaving style with the benefits of inexpensive blades and a superior shave.
Mastering the technique might take a bit of time, but the reward is a shave that's close without irritation, ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Skill level: 2
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1.3 Cut Throat Razor (Disposable Blades):
There’s a reason why this is the blade of choice for barbers across the world, offering the closest skin shave with the convenience of disposable blades.With a little bit of planning and practice, you can quickly learn the craft and embrace this new style of shaving for years to come.
Offering the style of a traditional straight razor, you can swap out blades easily, ensuring a consistently sharp edge without the need to sharpen the razor. Whilst shaving with a cut throat razor will take a bit more time and focus than a safety razor, it’s a rewarding experience and great for shaping beards.
Skill level: 3
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1.4 Straight Razor (Fixed Blades):
Unleash the true shaving aficionado within. The straight razor demands respect and technique, rewarding the adept with a shaving experience like no other. It's not just a shave; it's a ritual.
As part of that ritual, you’ll need to strop the razor between each shave, this helps to realign any nicks in the blade. You’ll also need to hone the razor every 3 months which involves re sharpening the blade.
Be warned, the interweb is full of cheap straight razors made from low quality steels. Most arrive dull and many can’t actually be sharpened. Buy from reputable brands and do your research before embarking.
Skill level: 5
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Chapter 2: Electric Marvels
Suitable for those looking for a convenient shave, beard trimming and full body manscaping.
2.1 Electric Foil Shaver:
Precision meets technology in the world of electric foil shavers. Glide effortlessly over your skin as the super thin foils capture and cut hair with finesse. Ideal for the modern man craving efficiency without compromising on a clean, smooth finish.
This is probably the closest shave you can get vs a bladed razor and a good quality electric foil shaver can leave your skin feeling smooth and stubble free.
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Skill level: 1
2.2 Rotary Electric Shaver:
Experience the dynamic prowess of rotary technology. Multiple circular blades adapt to the curves of your face, ensuring a consistently close shave. Rotary shavers are great for face and head shaving, allowing you to shave hard to reach areas without the risk of nicks or cuts.
Rotary Electric Shavers will produce a clean shaven look but you should expect to feel a small amount of stubble to the touch, approx 0.1 - 0.3 mm depending on the sharpness of the blades.
Skill level: 1
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2.3 Electric Clipper:
Ditch the beard struggles with the electric clipper. Perfect for trimming and maintaining your facial foliage, these tools offer adjustable lengths for the precise trim you desire. Say goodbye to unruly beards and hello to controlled perfection.
You can use electric clippers for producing a close shaver but they will leave a small amount of stubble, approx 0.1-1mm depending on the gap of the blades.
Skill level: 2
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Chapter 3: Unleash the Perfect Shave
Truth be told, choosing the right razor is only part of the quest for the perfect shave. The right preparation is the secret to an effortless shave.
3.1 Pre-Shave Rituals:
Prepare your canvas with a pre-shave ritual. Hot towels, pre-shave oils, and quality shaving creams can elevate your experience, ensuring your chosen razor glides smoothly and minimises irritation. Shop pre-shave & shaving creams.
3.2 The Shaving Technique:
Master the art of the perfect shave. Whether it's the controlled strokes of a straight razor or the efficient passes of an electric shaver, understanding the direction of hair growth and choosing the right technique is key. You can check out various tutorials on YouTube to find the right shaving technique for your chosen razor or trimmer.
3.3 Post-Shave Care:
Seal the deal with post-shave care. Calming aftershaves, moisturisers, and tonics soothe your skin, leaving it refreshed and revitalised. Shop post shave balms.
Epilogue: Choose Your Weapon Wisely
In the vast landscape of razors and shavers, your choice is a personal statement. Experiment, find your rhythm, and revel in the satisfaction of a well-executed shave. Unleash your grooming prowess, and let every stroke be a step towards perfection.
