Matthew

Shaving with Hard Water Versus With Soft Water - What Performs Better

Does Hard Water Make A Difference on Shaving?

Oct 4
0
Matthew

Discovering a fine shaving soap that works well is a fun experience for a lot of wet-shavers. As wet-shavers, the quality of our shaves can change based on so many factors. The kind of blades we use, what brand/model of the safety razor, a shaving soap or cream. However, one variable that a lot don’t take into consideration is the water. I know what you are probably thinking, “the kind of water doesn’t make an impact on my overall shave. Water is water at the end of the day, and as long as I can use it to make my lather, it shouldn’t matter.” The truth is it can, lathering with a shaving soap with hard water can impact the kind of lather you get from it, and thus potentially impacting your overall experience. In this blog, we examine how shaving with hard water can make a big difference.

What is Hard Water?

Hard Water is not describing how the water feels but rather the molecular properties of the substance. Hard water contains a higher concentration of minerals; primarily magnesium and calcium. Water becomes hard when it comes into contact and flows through rocks and wells. Soft water, on the other hand, is water that contains fewer minerals. If the water contains magnesium or calcium it doesn’t automatically become hard, rather it works on a spectrum and the more minerals it contains the harder it becomes.

Hard water is more common in rural areas where residence rely heavily on well water. In contrast, residence in urban areas, have their water go through a water treatment process to help clean and bring the water down to the specific mineral standard. Every city or town is slightly different, so it’s worth checking into how your water is maintained.

How does Hard Water impact your shaving soap experience?

The minerals in hard water make it difficult to create a sufficient lather needed for a close shave. The video below shows how soap interacts with hard water versus soft water. Though it’s not ‘shaving soap’, the video still gives you a good idea of the problem.

When your lather is not the best, you’ll feel more of a tug on your facial hard from the blade doing the work. You may experience more irritation, as your skin has not received the necessary lubrication to allow for the blade to ‘glide’ over the skin with ease and trimming at the base of the hairs.

Shaving lather is always tricky and as wet-shavers, you might believe that too thick of lather is not either; as it may clog up the razor. It’s about finding a balance, one of constant experimentation.

Changing Hard Water For Shaving Soap

Do you need to change your hard water system to get a better shave? The answer to that is no. One way you can help reduce the hard water in the home is by getting a hard water filtration system. However, the problem with these systems is that they can get expensive.

One thing to consider is purchasing a system specifically for one bathroom in the home. This way you are cutting down the cost of the entire home; however still able to see the benefits in one specific room.

At the same time, not all shaving soaps are equal. As you try more and more shaving soaps, you learn that some lather better with hard water compared to others. We will have a variety of blog posts coming out at a later date regarding hard water lathers.

You can also consider trying a shaving cream, that may allow for an easier lather experience.

At the end of the day, if you have really bad hard water in the home, we recommend considering a hard water filtration system. Not because of getting a closer or better shave, but because of the health benefits. It’s important to have a good water supply and quality of water in the house for healthy living.

It all depends on how hard the water is, and whether or not you see a need for it.

Leave a comment below, of shaving soaps you have discovered that work well with hard water!

How Long Does Wet Shaving Take?

Oct 8
0
Matthew

In a world that is getting faster and better every single day, we as humans we don’t like to compromise. We want to have it all. We like to have the best quality products at the absolute lowest prices and we don’t want to wait either. However, when it comes to shaving, we find there is a division of men. Some men don’t mind spending a little extra time if that means they are free from razor burn and skin irritation. While some on the other hand, just want the itch off their face as quickly as possible. They want the quick fix, and a few days later they find they are in the same boat again. Men’s grooming companies have focused on getting a quick quality shave, but for some those standards have never been met. We believe this is why men have hated shaving so much. In this post, we are going to examine how long does wet shaving take and whether or not it’s worth taking up.

The Process

Cartridge Razor

Every man and their process for shaving is different. Some men like to shave right when they get out of the shower, some like to shave in it. Regardless of how you start, the remainder of the process stays consistent.

When it comes to shaving, the majority of men squirt some gel into their hands and apply to their face. Some like to use a gel, foam, and some even a cream or soap. We then usually fill up the sink with a bit of hot water, dunking the razor blade into the water to heat up. Taking the cartridge blade and making strokes down the face, removing the hair from the face. Some of us will take the razor and do an upward stroke working around the neck region to get some hairs that are difficult to get.

Depending on how much hair you have, the overall length and thickness, a lot of men call it a day after one pass. While some like to make another pass trying to get all the small little hairs that might have been missed on the first round.

Shaving with a brand new cartridge will usually take the average man 5-10 minutes to shave.

So the question now becomes, how does this compare to the traditional double edge methodology.

Wet Shaving With Double Edge Safety

Following the wet shaving methodology utilizing a double edge safety takes a bit longer and requires a few more items.

Before you shave, it’s important that you prep the skin for the shave. Wash the skin with hot water working to open the skin pores. If you shave once you get out of the shower, you are good to go.

After the skin has been washed, this is where we like to apply a pre-shave oil. This helps to moisturize the skin and act as a layer of protection between the razor and the blade.

Take your shaving brush and rinse it under hot water. This will clean the brush while adding heat to the mixture which will work wonders for your shave.

Next, depending on what kind of product you are using you want to create your lather with your shaving brush. Take your brush to the cream or soap, and work to create a rich thick lather.

Apply the lather to your face, massaging into the skin and allowing the heat from the brush to keep the pores open. The brush will work to exfoliate the skin allowing for overall better skincare.

Once you have your lather applied and you are ready, take your double edge safety razor and start shaving.

Shaving accessories on wooden background

How Many Passes Wet Shaving

There is a lot of debate in the wet shaving community on how many passes you need to make with a double-edged safety razor. A lot of individuals will say you need to make one pass going down, another pass going sideways, and then a third pass going upward.

This is not always necessary, as it really varies from person to person. Depending on how much facial hair you have, the thickness of the hair, etc, one pass may be enough for you to get an overall great shave.

When you use a double-edged razor, you are using one wickedly sharp blade, that requires a specific technique and form to properly use.

If you make one pass with a safety razor, the entire process of shaving should take roughly around 10 minutes.

How Long Does Wet Shaving Take The Average Person

Technically traditional wet-shaving does take a bit longer compared to simply using gel and a cartridge razor. Especially for new individuals who are just starting to learn how to shave with a double-edged safety razor. However, once you really master the craft and learn the angles you can cut down a lot of your time shaving and get it almost comparable to that of a cartridge razor. Plus, though it does take a bit longer, a lot of men find this time with themselves relaxing.

Now that you know how long wet shaving takes, the question becomes “Are you willing to spare an extra couple of minutes to get a quality shave?” Let us know your thoughts, by tagging us @LoveShavingClub on social media.

What Is Wet Shaving?

Aug 17
0
Matthew

Wetshaving is also commonly known as traditional shaving. When you think of traditional shaving you think of your grandpa and a double edge safety razor. However, technically, that’s not what wet shaving is all about. Yes, traditional shaving involves using a safety razor, but it’s more than just that. It’s rather about a process and taking time appreciating and respecting one’s body. So in short, wet shaving is a process utilizing the right products and methodology, that allows you to get a better shave, one free from razor burn and skin irritation.

Wet shaving has been making a tremendous comeback over the past five years. If you don’t believe me, I would highly encourage you to check out the community growth behind the popular Reddit community, Wicked Edge. A community with over 120,000 strong that are dedicated to getting a better shave through the wet shaving methodology.

The reason there has been so much growth in this market and community is because men are simply fed up with what they have been dealing with for decades. Men have suffered long enough dealing with both the hefty financial price of shaving, but also the experience. We have come to learn that we can’t keep doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results. We have to be willing to try new things, even if that means going back to the way we used to shave.

It appears that going back has tremendously relieved hundreds of thousands of men around the world. There are some places in the world where men don’t have access to cartridge razors.

Benefits Of Wet Shaving

For individuals who suffer from sensitive skin, the biggest benefit of wet shaving is you get the closest shave possible while removing razor burn. Adding heat to the mixture with your shaving brush allows for your pores to remain open and prepare the skin for the shave. Proper lubrication from the pre-shave oil and or shaving cream, allows your skin to be moisturized, and protected, allowing your razor to glide with ease.

The next biggest benefit of traditional wet shaving is the cost compared to cartridge razors over the long term. Traditional shaving can require a heavier investment upfront in the form of pre-shave oil, creams/soaps, shaving brush, safety razor and blades. Double Edge Safety Razor blades cost pennies compared to that of cartridge razor systems. An individual can save thousands of dollars over their lifetime shaving with a double edge compared to that of a cartridge razor.

The biggest downside to wet-shaving is the learning curve involved. When you are first starting, you need to learn how to properly angle the razor blade. This does take a little bit of time to master, and causes your shaving time to slightly increase. However, that is a skill you can develop over time and master to the point where it takes you the same amount of time to shave with a double edge than that of a cartridge razor.

Products You Need To Start Wet Shaving Wet Shave

To get started with wet shaving you essentially need only three core items. You need a shaving cream/soap, a double edge safety razor and a shaving brush.

Other additional items that some like to purchase include a shaving bowl, a pre-shave oil, and a stand. Though these items are not necessary, they can make your shaving setup more aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable.

The reason why we classify pre-shave oil as an additional item is because its not necessary to start seeing the benefits of wet-shaving. Pre-shave oil helps add an extra layer of protection to the skin and helps moisturize it a bit more. Therefore, though pre-shave oil can make a difference in the quality of shave you receive, however, it is not 100% necessary.

Will you make the switch?

Now that you know about traditional wet shaving and what everyone has been talking about, the question now becomes will you make the switch?

If you are uncertain, that is completely okay.

I would highly encourage you to subscribe to our blog and check out the Wicked Edge community for more information on other peoples journey. In combination, the content and information provided will help provide sufficient information on whether or not you want to start wet shaving.

Shaving Brush Grades and what is available to the everyday shaver

Shaving Brush Grades Explained

Aug 10
0
Matthew

In its basic form, a shaving brush helps create a rich lather, working into the deep tissue of your skin allowing for a more comfortable shave. When a shaving brush is used with the right cream, it can make a world of difference to the quality of the shave. Some individuals don’t see the value in a shaving brush, but it’s not until they start using it frequently, where they see the value it provides. So what do you do if you know you want a shaving brush, but you are unsure of what grade of brush is right for you. With so many options out there, it can feel daunting. You want a brush to last you a long time while providing tremendous value. This blog explains the different shaving brush grades available.

Boar Shaving Brush

A boar shaving brush is considered to be a low priced entry-level shaving brush. These brush prices can range anywhere from $5.00 – $20.00.

One of the first things you notice when using a boar shaving brush, is their bristles are stronger and coarser. Over time, the bristles break down and become softer with use. However, some individuals may like a firmer shaving brush, as they feel it lifts their hairs off the skin with more ease. If that’s the case, individuals may find themselves buying a new boar brush every few months.

Even over five years of shaving, that money can add up fast and cost you more money in the long run, compared to if you bought a premium badger brush. It’s something to be conscious of when looking to buy.

Horse Hair Shaving Brush

These shaving brushes are considered to be a bit softer compared to a boar brush but are more coarse compared to a badger.

Horsehair shaving brushes are more difficult to find as the number of producers available is limited. One of the reasons why is because there is not much demand for them.

Some individuals may find this brush grade tend to smell. If you were to look at a horsehair shaving brush, we would encourage you to wash it with pet-shampoo and warm water before using; to allow for the smell to be removed.

Synthetic Hair Shaving Brush

These brushes are custom made from synthetic bristles. Synthetic hair shaving brushes still create a quick rich lather and are still a very affordable option.

One of the main reasons individuals may prefer a synthetic hair shaving brush is because they are considered to be cruelty-free. They don’t use animal hair and no animals are harmed in the making of these brushes.

However, the downside to synthetic shaving brushes is they don’t absorb much water and therefore dry very quickly. Heat is essential for a quality shave as heat is the ingredient that helps keep your skin pores open, allowing for hair to be trimmed with ease. Therefore you do sacrifice a warm massaging lather when choosing a synthetic brush grade and ultimately increase your odds of razor burn.

Badger Shaving Brush

Badger Shaving Brushes are the most popular of shaving brush used and are the most expensive. Prices may range anywhere from $40-$800.

Compared to a boar brush, their bristles are less coarse and provide a softer experience. This allows for the bristles to hold the water and stay warm while lathering. People enjoy the warm lather to the face, massaging the cream while helping exfoliate the skin. Out of all the shaving brush grades, a badger shaving brush provides the most luxurious experience.

Now, when it comes to badger shaving brushes, there are multiple types. Each type is a little different in properties and functionality.

Pure Badger

The pure badger shaving brush is the most common used by wet-shavers. A pure badger shaving brush offers tremendous value at a fair price for the everyday shaver. This brush is produced from the underbelly of the animal and is considered to be a coarser material compared to the best badger or silvertip. These brushes are typically the least expensive out of all the badger options while lasting a long time for individuals.

Best Badger

A best badger shaving brush contains some pure badger hair. You will notice this brush’s hair is a bit lighter compared to that of the pure badger. These brushes will be loaded a bit more compared to that of the pure badger, making the brush denser allowing for it to hold more water.

The difference between a pure badger and best badger shaving brush is so small that most individuals can’t tell the difference.

Super Badger

These brushes are a bit more expensive compared to the super’s and pure badgers, however, they look very similar to that of the silvertip. The reason is, a lot of these brushes will contain pure badger hair that has been bleached, making them appear more of a grey. This brush does not function much different from that of a pure badger.

Silvertip Badger

At the high end of the market is the silvertip badger shaving brush. What makes them more valuable is they tend to hold more water compared to any other shaving brush grade, which allows for the best lather. Their hairs appear more of a white versus the super badger, which is considered more of a grey. Appearing more fluffy and arguably the softest out of any shaving brush you can buy.

The Right Brush For You

Now that you know all about the different shaving brush grades available to you, the only thing left for you is to choose one.

Each brush is a bit different compared to the next. Badger shaving brushes are by far the most popular shaving brush available on the market, and rightfully so. They offer a tremendous value, a better brush compared to a boar or synthetic at a bit more money. Now when it comes from comparing a pure badger shaving brush to that of a silvertip badger, is it worth the extra money? We will have to let you decide that one.

Lather up the brush for a clean-cut wet shave

How Long Does A Badger Shaving Brush Last?

Jul 24
0
Matthew

There is without a doubt a shaving brush can make a massive improvement in the quality of one’s shave. Once you start using a shaving brush on a regular basis, it’s hard to go back without using one. You don’t truly appreciate what a brush does for you until you try it and then stop. From Pure Badger, Silvertip Badger, Best Badger, Super Badger, Horse, Silvertip, Synthetic, super synthetic, best synthetic, there are a ton of options on the market for you to choose from. Out of all the options available, badger brushes tend to be most popular. However, you might be wondering “How Long Does A Badger Shaving Brush Last”.

By the end of this post, we hope to have that question answered for you.

Wet Shaving with John Perozok — Start Wet Shaving

Prices May Vary

Brushes can range anywhere from $5 to $800 depending on the grade or brand of the brush. A Simpson’s brand shaving brush is considered to be at the high-end of the market, offering a luxury experience. On the other hand, there are cheap knock-off, no-name brands that go for $5 in the dollar store. When you are looking for a brush you can’t compare an $800 brush to a $5 one. Each brush is constructed differently, with different handles, bristle qualities and overall performance.

Badger Shaving Brushes

One of the main reasons why badger shaving brushes are so popular is because they provide excellent performance at an affordable price.

The pure black badger is the most common/popular shaving brush manufactured. Their hair is from the neck, shoulders, abdomen, and buttocks, of the badger. These shaving brushes colour may vary from a light tan to black. Their bristles are more coarse than best badger or silvertip brushes while remaining a bit more affordable.

The reason they cost less compared to a best badger brush is because they have longer bristles which are more flexible. A silvertip badger brush is considered to be the longest and most luxurious to shave with as the ends are flared which allows it to hold more water.

When your brush holds more water, your lather becomes more rich and therefore creates better performance.

Wet Shaving Kit and what you need to start — Wet Shaving Kit

Lifetime

Let’s face it, you are going to do a lot of shaving over your lifetime. So doesn’t it make sense to at least enjoy that experience?

When you are looking to purchase a shaving brush, you get what you pay for.

A high-end shaving brush like a Simpson’s should last longer than that of a cheap $5 Dollar-Store brush. However, the time a shaving brush can last depends on how you take care of the brush overall. You can purchase an $800 brush but if you don’t take care of it whatsoever, don’t expect it to last you very long.

A decent quality brush like a pure badger should last you anywhere from 15 to 30 years.

If you decide to invest in a premium brush, make sure you understand and know how to properly maintain it. Otherwise, it can be like throwing money down the drain along with your facial hair.

Mens Shaving Tips - How To Shave Your Beard With Complete Comfort

What does beard oil do and How it works

Jun 16
0
Matthew

At Love Shaving Club, we love hearing stories when people shave off their beard or moustache. I remember one time as a young kid my father and I were shaving after a long day. I was probably around 4 or 5 years old at the time. My dad had been growing out a moustache for a couple of weeks and it was getting fairly thick. That night we were having a little fun, and he decided to shave one half of his face. He then went to my mother and said, “okay mom, what side do you like better the clean side or the dirty side…” At the time I thought it was hilarious, and truth be told it was something I forgot until I started writing this article. With that thought in mind, 20 years later, I have noticed a lot of men are simply keeping their facial hair groomed and are maintaining their hair more. One product men are using a lot more of compared two twenty years ago is beard oil. So in this post, I am going to examine what is beard oil, what ingredient it contains, what to look for when buying it, what are the benefits, when you should apply it, and whether or not it’s something you want to start using

What is beard oil?

Beard Oil is a men’s grooming product that consists of a blend of ingredients mixed together that works to hydrate the skin and help soften the facial hair at the same time. When your facial hair is well moisturized and groomed, it helps to reduce any irritation and reduce flakes or beard dandruff that might be found.

Ingredients

Every beard oil is a little bit different. Some beard oils can be all natural while some may contain a variety of different ingredients.

The two main ingredients in a beard oil include both a conditioning oil and then usually a couple of essential oils to help create the scent. Common conditioning beard oil ingredients include jojoba oil, argan oil, and even grapeseed oil. Common scents of beard oils include cedarwood, sandalwood, lime, bay rum, tobacco etc. Typically beard oil will have a primary scent and then may contain some undertone scents.

A great example of how multiple scents being used to create a masterpiece is Mammoth Beards Cedar and Mint.

Mammoth Beard out of Calgary, Alberta created a scent based around nature. This beard oil has a primary cedar scent while providing the cool freshness of mint and hints of vanilla, creating one of the most pleasurable aromas for beard oils.

What does beard oil do?

One myth people have about beard oil, is they believe it helps grow facial hair longer and thicker. The simple truth is, that is not the case whatsoever. Facial hair is something that can’t be fully controlled as your genetics and testosterone levels play such a big factor in the picture. Instead what beard oil will do is moisturize, and nourish your skin to allow for better facial care. A lot of men struggle with beard dandruff. Oils help remove this issue and help provide a healthier furry face.

When should you apply beard oil?

The best time to use a beard oil is in the mornings right after the shower, or after you finish washing your face. The reason is that heat will help expand and open up the pores. When we use a beard oil during this time, it is getting to the ‘root’ of our skin and providing a dose of moisturization, that helps protect, and nourish the skin.

Do I need it?

Do you experience beard dandruff? Do you feel your skin underneath your furry face is dry and needs to be moisturized? Does a shiny beard that is soft really interest you? Is having a healthy beard important to you?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, a beard oil is more than likely right for you. If you answered ‘no’ to all of them, then it’s probably not something that is on the top of the list. Maybe you don’t like the idea of putting oil in your beard or you don’t enjoy the potency of the product. If that’s a case, a beard balm might be better suited for you.

Love Shaving Club's Pre Shave Oil In Nature

What is Pre-Shave Oil and What does it do?

Jun 15
0
Matthew

After you shave your face, your skin may experience some irritation. This is probably one of the worst feelings in the world. It’s definitely not the right way to start or end the day. Luckily here at Love Shaving Club, we want you to feel good every single day. We believe shaving should not be a chore but rather provide a sense of excitement. One of the best ways to reduce skin irritation is by spending a little more time preparing for your shave with a pre-shave oil.

What is Pre-Shave Oil?

Pre-shave oil is an oil that is applied to the skin before applying either a shaving soap, shaving cream, or gel.

How to Use Pre-Shave Oil?

A Pre-Shave Oil is an easy and fast product that anyone can use to help get a better shave.

First, discover a pre-shave oil that interests you. At Love Shaving Club we offer our own pre-shave oil to try.. Once you have chosen an oil, wash your face with warm water. Warm water will help to soften the hair bristles and opens the pores. Apply a few drops of the oil to your hands and rub together. With your hands massage the oil into the skin below your furry face, applying to the area that will be shaven. Once your face is ‘covered’, wash your hands to remove any residue oils off your hands and you can now start applying your shaving soap, cream or gel.

What Does Pre-Shave Oil Do?

Now that we have covered what is pre-shave oil and how to use it, let’s discuss what it technically does.

When you wash your face with hot water it helps open the pores of the skin. When the pre-shave oil is applied it works into those pores and applies lubrication while softening the root of any hair. Thus when you shave, you notice less resistance and thus the hair comes off more easily.

Whether you use a cartridge razor or double edge safety razor, you should notice a closer shave with less resistance. For users who are using a cartridge razor who get irritation, this should reduce or eliminate the inflamed skin after a shave.

What is Pre-Shave Oil Made Of?

Typically pre-shave oil is not greasy as most blends are either made from coconut, sunflower, or olive oil. There are various oil blends that are made from other plant-based material that do the same kind of job.

Read the ingredients of what is in our pre-shave oil to ensure it will work with your skin. Some pre-shave oils may contain almond or peanut oil that can cause an allergic reaction. Therefore always check and read the label before applying.

Why Use A Pre-Shave Oil and Who Should Use it?

Pre-Shave oil will help you get a closer shave. For those who use a double edge safety razor, a pre-shave will lubricate your skin better allowing for the razor to do more of the work naturally. Anyone can use a pre-shave oil. Whether you use a cartridge razor or a single double edge, you can experience the benefits of a pre-shave oil. If you have sensitive skin and find shaving irritates your face, a pre-shave might be your first step to a better experience. Another thing you might want to consider is looking to acquire a double edge safety razor, as they can provide less irritation but also a better quality shave overall.

You are going to shave thousands of times during your lifetime, you might as well enjoy the overall experience.