Dear journal,
For a long time, I thought shaving was a five-minute affair.
A little water, a blade, three passes in every direction, and done.
That was before I understood why I regularly ended up with a red neck and the charming sensation of having kissed a cactus.
Since then, I’ve learned to take my time. Not too much, don’t worry. Just enough to realise that a good shave starts long before the blade touches the skin.
And above all, that there’s more than one way to do it.
The Safety Razor: My First Love
It was with a safety razor that I truly discovered traditional shaving.
The principle is quite simple: a double-edged blade mounted on a handle, allowing for a precise shave while remaining relatively easy to master.
You simply have to forget one old habit: pressing down.
The first time I used a safety razor, I naturally did exactly the opposite. The result: a small cut on my cheek and a much-needed lesson in humility.
Since then, I simply let the weight of the razor do the work.
One pass with the grain to start, followed, if necessary, by a second pass across the grain for a closer shave.
There’s no need to turn your face into a construction site.
The Shavette: When Precision Matters
The shavette is a different story.
It looks like a straight razor, but uses a replaceable blade. No sharpening required: you simply replace the blade when it’s worn.
I mainly use it to define the contours of my beard and moustache.
It requires a little more precision, but that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. You have complete control over your movements and can create an incredibly sharp, clean line.
It’s also the moment when I usually start feeling like a professional barber for a few minutes.
Then I remember I’m simply standing in my bathroom.
And What About the Straight Razor?
The straight razor, on the other hand, belongs to a category of its own.
It’s probably the most traditional tool of the three. A fixed blade that needs to be maintained, sharpened, and handled with care.
It requires more of a learning curve, but that’s also what makes it so charming.
I have to admit, I didn’t start with this one.
I’m a big fan of beautiful objects, but I’m an even bigger fan of keeping my face intact.
For anyone looking to discover traditional shaving, I would therefore recommend starting with a safety razor, then moving on to a shavette if you’re looking for greater precision.
The straight razor can come later, for the more adventurous among us.
And finally, the Blade Isn’t the Most Important Part
That’s probably the thing that took me the longest to understand.
A good blade won’t work miracles on poorly prepared skin.
Before shaving, I always start by preparing my skin with warm water. Then I apply a few drops of Tonsor & Cie Shaving Oil.
That’s when everything becomes much easier.
The oil helps the blade glide more smoothly over the skin and reduces friction. The movement becomes more fluid, and the shave much more comfortable.
With good preparation and a good blade, shaving becomes almost effortless.
Almost.
You still have to stay focused. Even a gentleman can have a moment of inattention.
Two Passes, Not Ten
My method is now quite simple.
One first pass with the grain.
It removes most of the beard without unnecessarily irritating the skin.
Then a second pass across the grain, for a cleaner result and a closer shave.
I’ve never really understood those who run their blade over the same spot fifteen times, only to wonder afterwards why their skin is irritated.
When it stops cutting, don’t keep going over it.
Prepare better next time.
And After Shaving?
This is where I used to make the mistake of stopping.
I would rinse my face, dry it, and leave.
Today, I take a few extra seconds to apply Tonsor & Cie Aftershave.
After the blade has done its work, the skin deserves to be soothed. The aftershave provides an immediate feeling of freshness, helps calm the skin and leaves it feeling comfortable.
And then there’s that little burst of coolness.
The one that instantly reminds you that you’ve just shaved.
A sensation I particularly enjoy in the morning.
Ultimately, the Secret Is Quite Simple
I used to think that getting a good shave was mainly about having an excellent blade.
Today, I’d say it’s more about the whole process.
Well-prepared skin.
A good oil to help the blade glide.
A blade suited to your experience and habits.
A precise technique, without unnecessary pressure.
And a good aftershave to finish.
The rest comes with practice.
Prepare the skin.
Prepare the blade.
And for a few moments, do nothing but shave.
I think that might just be the real luxury after all...
See you soon!
The Gentleman