Reddit reviews Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce
We found 62 Reddit comments about Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce. Here are the top ones, ranked by their Reddit score.
Cream helps prepare your beard for shaving and moisturizes your faceA classic fragrance with top notes of geranium, lavender, rosemary and liquid amber supported by a heart of carnation, fern and orange blossom resting on a sumptuous base of patchouli, sandalwood, powdery musk and rock roseCream is contain a plastic bowl making lathering easy, Sandalwood shaving cream bowlProduct normal consistency is that of a cream and is recommended to be stored at room temperature, 59 degrees Fahrenheit to 77 degrees Fahrenheit The cream may re position during shipping as the manufacturer has left space between cream and top of containerManufacturer recommend using within 12 months after openingEnglish ClassicShave Cream150 gSandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl
Tl;Dr OP delivers/is a faggot.
Haha, all right, I'll tell you everything I know. First, get these:
http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Model-180-Handled-Safety/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1346053195&sr=8-1&keywords=safety+razor
http://www.amazon.com/Tweezerman-2801-h-Mens-Shaving-Brush/dp/B000G647Y8/ref=pd_sim_hpc_1
http://www.amazon.com/Derby-Extra-Double-Razor-Blades/dp/B0032Q41LS/ref=sr_1_5?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1346053303&sr=1-5&keywords=Derby+double+edge
http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Street-Sandalwood-Shaving-Cream/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=pd_sim_hpc_13
http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-BodyGroom-BG2040-34/dp/B0037HP9OA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1346053392&sr=8-1&keywords=Body+hair+trimmer
First, shampoo your groin hair with the strongest shampoo you can think off. The drier and fluffier the hair down there, the easier this is going to be.
Second, use the body hair trimmer while in the shower to get all the hair everywhere as short as you possibly can without making yourself uncomfortable. If you want to start above the dick, then start there to get accustomed to how the trimmer works then work your way to all the areas you wish to tame. I also shave my gouche etc, it's up to you. This will make the next part a lot easier.
Get some water and get it boiling hot. Then let it cool until you can touch it without seriously hurting yourself. The hotter the water the better but don't burn yourself. Now take the brush and soak it with the hot water. Then swish it around in the soap until you build up a nice foamy lather.
Lather that shit on there!
Here's the most time consuming part. You want to first go with the grain, shaving wherever you are first comfortable with. You want to use as small of an angle as you possibly can, I shave with the blade almost parallel to the skin. You do NOT push hard! It's a light grazing! LIGHT GRAZING! LIGHT! You use the weight of the head of the razor that is ALLLL the pressure you need! If it isn't enough pressure, increase the angle slightly.
EVERY time you pass by with the razor, you wash the blade in the water and apply new soap with the brush until you're satisfied. This keeps the soap and hair from clogging the blades and cutting something or ripping out a hair.
Always switch sides of the razor with each pass. This ensures near uniform wearing of the edges.
After you have passed by everything going with the grain, do the same against the grain. After you've done that, I go perpendicular to the grain for a grand total of three passes. Always cleaning the blade after every stroke, always re-soaping until you're satisfied.
After you've shaved everywhere, It's supposed to take a long time! Hurrying leads to awful bloody cuts! Then you LIGHTLY apply aftershave. It will always burn some, but not as much as it normally would! You whatever aftershave you have on hand.
For the balls, stretch out the skin as much as you possibly can and DO NOT APPLY PRESSURE! The same goes for the skin on your shaft if you have hair there.
Finally, baby powder that bitch! This will ensure you stay dry and clean and fresh all day!
At first, it will itch. There's no avoiding it. After you've shaved down there maybe 6 times, the itching will reduce until you don't notice it. ALWAYS USE A FRESH RAZOR! They're like less than 8 cents a piece, that's worth not having to worry about bleeding all over the inside of your pants!
And that's how I shave.
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For those of you who don't have the time but still want to get the job done, here was an insightful post by reddit user: OftenStupid
Disclaimer: If you wish to ritualize some portion of your life, the above is wonderful and I can see how it would be very satisfying. However, If your goal is to shave your junk:
I'm with SuccumbedtoReddit, the guide reads like it was purposefully written for hipsters. What the fuck, a brush? a FUCKING BRUSH? Old-school decapitate-yourself razor?
Please, just get a decent razor like you would for say another part of your body that you do not wish to mutilate like say....ummm.. your face.
Use some warm water, you're in the fucking shower just turn the knob goddamn it.
Apply some shaving cream. No you won't make it, nor handcraft it nor pick it from the freshest cream-trees growing on the purest mountain tops. You'll go out and buy a can that reads "shaving cream" on the label. Apply cream. Fap, if the mood takes you there, as smearing warm creamy-like substances on your privates might do.
Shave. Apply some pressure. Shit, with most modern razors you can fucking hate-stab yourself with it without drawing blood. If you want to be cautious, start gently and proceed according to how much time you want to invest.
Wash it off, re-apply shaving cream, shave against the grain.
Trim the hair on the border between penis and belly, because no-one likes the "this area has been nuked from orbit" look.
Wash off, endure the itchiness for a day or two.
Play with yourself whenever and however you wish to, without the excuse that it's somehow a necessarry procedure.
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You may have more nicks if you rush TOO much, but any nicks you get will be tiny and won't hurt or bleed that much. The above is more or less what I do when I'm in a rush, minus the shaving cream.
A Merkur Safety Razor with a Tweezerman Brush, Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream, and Derby Razor Blades.
It takes a few shaves to get used to it, but it's the closest, freshest shave you'll ever have without going to a skilled barber. 100 replacement blades that last for 7-15 shaves each would last you years, and only costs $15. Initial investment is ~$70, but you'll make it up within the first few months.
Complete bullshit. I’d just like to ask why you have to ask your mom to shave? You’re old enough to buy yourself some razors, dude. On the subject, I’d suggest a good double edge safety razor and some good shaving cream - it’s much better for sensitive, teenage skin and is just cheaper in the long run (the refill razor blades are like 10 cents each).
I am a huge fan of using a brush and shaving soap. I decided I was done paying gilette the equivalent of my first born child just to be granted the permission to shave. their monopoly hold (at least in the uk) is insane. So I bought a shaving brush and soap, and a plain unbranded razor (with which you can use regular (read cheap) razor blades, such as these ones:
Razor: Standard Razor Set ($49.99 / 23 hours left)
Brush: Badger Hair Brush ($12.50)
Soap: Sandalwood Shaving Cream ($16.98)
You might want a stand for your brush as well, so that it is stored handle up.
Brush, razor, blade, cream.
Sorry, but IDK how the European Amazon works, but that should give you some ideas on where to start.
You are much better off doing this. Disposable blades are a colossal, sucky ripoff.
100 blades - Made in Russia - for $9
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QY8QXM
The best soap - Made in England - for $15
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007MW2ZW
Merkur razor - Made in Germany - for $32
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NL0T1G
Badger hair brush - $13
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G647Y8
The best aftershave - Made in Italy - $14
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0085UECY2
So, $83 with money to spare and it's all you need for at least 12 months. The Art of Shaving is neat, but it's grossly overpriced. Clearly they have latched on to the hipster instagrammy nature of society with a price tag to match. I have some of their sandlewood soap and while nice, it's no better than the soap I listed.
It's funny how classic shaving is all of a sudden a trendy thing. All I know is I love it. I came from the 3 NO 4 NO 5 NO a BILLION blade world. It's a joke. Just go old school and take your time. Enjoy the ritual. Baby bottom smooth in 7 minutes. Modern disposable cartridges are a sad scam that society has fallen for. Complete and total scam.
May as well toss this in...especially if you travel. Love mine.
Parker leather razor case - $14
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001O8NCI4
Thats a full year of supplies and a lifetime worth of hardware (minus the badger brush). Think about that for a minute...
You don't have to spend the earth on it, just go for something on Amazon with decent reviews like this or this
I like to use this shaving soap, it is kinda pricy but it lasts me ages and it's actually really nice. You'd also need a brush sorta like this and maybe a small bowl to lather up in like this one. Initial outlay is fairly pricy, probably somewhere between 20-30 quid, but once you have that stuff buying more soap and razors once every blue moon works out dead cheap and will give you a better shave.
I'm really not a fan of normal disposable razors you'll find in a supermarket, I find those multi-razor jobbies just tug more and wear out far too quickly for how much money they cost
Also if you're unsure how to use it there's a bunch of how-to guides on youtube for shaving with a safety razor
Merkur Model 180 Long Handled Safety Razor
Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce
Tweezerman Men's Shaving Brush
100 Astra Superior Premium Platinum Double Edge Safety Razor Blades
And some Jojoba Oil
http://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/01/04/how-to-shave-like-your-grandpa/
I have the Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor mentioned in the article and it's amazing and it's a very reasonable price. For blades I went with these which are about 12.50 for 100 and they are double sided so even if you want a fresh blade each shave that's like half a cent per shave.
Which cream to get is more subjective but I got this with this which works for my needs. All this has lasted me a full year worth of shaving.
I don't know how good the stuff I got is vs other's because I haven't used anything else but it's way better than cartridge shaving.
Here's my suggestion.
Get a slant head razor.
Use Feather blades. They're the sharpest you can get.
Stop using canned shave cream, get a real shaving soap and a decent brush.
Also get some Mr GLO soap and use it before you shave. Lather it onto your beard and let it soak in for two and a half minutes, then rinse and apply your lather. This makes your beard as soft as it's gonna get.
Shave with the grain, re-lather, shave across the grain, re-lather, shave against the grain.
Read this book and go to this website.
Hope this helps.
I possess extremely long, extremely thick, extremely coarse, extremely curly hair. Think somewhere between Claudio Sanchez of Coheed & Cambria and the fat guy from Lost except halfway down by back.
Every day, I shower. When I do so, I wet my hair then rub it down with a cedarwood/rosemary shampoo bar (solid-form shampoo composed mostly of saponified shea butter and jojoba oil without any natural-oil-stripping sulfates) and lather it up. I let it sit for awhile, then rinse. After that, I apply a thick coat of dandruff-defense conditioner (liquid form) and let that stand while I wash my body (with a fancy loofa and a really nice bar of cold-pressed, natural soap called "Desert Sands"). I rinse the conditioner out, wring most of the water out of my hair, and then step out of the tub.
I apply a mist of leave-in spray condtioner and let it stand while I shave (using a variety of natural shaving soaps and/or creams with a badger hair brush, a German safety razor, and a number of facial care products including an alum block, witch hazel splash, and moisturizer) and brush my teeth. I finally run a large brush (with scalp-protecting beads on the bristles and a malleable backing to allow it to shape itself to the contours of my head as I brush) through my hair until there are no more knots or tuggy spots..
On work days, I'll throw on my shirt, pull my hair back, then brush it back into a ponytail that I'll hold up with a hairtie. Otherwise I let it airdry into a gloriously fluffy, unbelievably soft, and delicious-smelling mane that encircles my entire head and neck and draws the eye of every woman I pass.
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What else would we use indeed!
Taylor of Old Bond Street and Geo F Trumper are both London-based companies with a very good reputation here. Both companies offer a sandalwood variety of shave soap. For around £10 you should be able to get a 6 oz soap of either in a plastic tub, or you can upgrade to Geo F Trumper in a wooden bowl for about £20.
Edwin Jagger is a company based out of Sheffield that offers very nice razors for around £20. Any that start with DE8_ are good, they all have the same head... it just comes down to the handle for example DE86 has a faux-ebony handle but DE89 is all chrome... the cutting head is the same on both.
A silvertip (highest quality) badger brush will run you at least £20, so as you can probably start to see, getting a soap, brush, and razor all for £30-40 will be tricky. If you downgrade to a boar brush you can get one for about £10 which will bring all 3 products to about £40. A boar brush isn't "worse", it's just different -- many people prefer it over badger. It's also more humane as the badgers need to be killed to harvest their hair. Otherwise you will need to start getting into lower-quality soaps and razors to offset the cost of the badger brush, or spend at least an extra tenner.
For example here are some amazon.co.uk links for you, there are probably other UK-based shaving websites that carry all these as well, or if you live in a major city you might even have a physical shave shop:
Razor
Shaving soap
Boar brush (personally I would look for one with a wooden handle though, I think it's classier than the plastic. If you want to stick with plastic, they come in a variety of colours)
I intentionally picked British-made products for you since you want to incorporate strong traditional and classic themes, but other companies like Merkur (German), Gillette (American), Parker (Indian) also make good razors that you might want to take a look at. I'm also assuming you want a brand new razor and not something vintage. Proraso is a nice Italian soap I use myself that will probably cost you £5 if the others are a bit too expensive.
You can add in an aftershave but that will again be another £10 or so, same with a bowl. If you want something classic and like an aftershave, I'd pick up an alum block instead. It's a naturally-occuring mineral that acts as an astringent and antiseptic -- you run it over your face after shaving to close your pores and prevent razor bumps, etc. Brand generally doesn't matter, it's all the same chunk of rock. I think a bowl is an unnecessary extra cost, any cereal bowl or latte mug can be used. If anything, just go to a charity shop and pick out the nicest mug you can get for £1-2. The bowl is used to produce your lather... you swirl the brush on the soap for 30-60 seconds to load it, and then transfer to the bowl and the lather will grow into something like a normal shaving cream when you stir it for a couple minutes. You can also lather directly onto your face or in the palm of your hand if preferred too.
If he has any questions on how to use the stuff, just direct him our way :)
I think that you would be better off with a double edge. It's less technically demanding to learn, you don't have to maintain the blade (you'll have to sharpen a straight edge from time to time and strop it daily) because it's disposable.
My philosophy is that shaving is less about the hair and more about the skin, caring for it and leaving it comfortable/not irritated. Even with a light beard, it's worth learning how to shave well because it's good for the skin and it's a pleasant and meditative ritual. The whole process of carefully prepping the skin, applying the soap/cream and doing a multiple pass shave is satisfying. Like a very masculine manicure, manly pampering. Mampering? No...
Anyway, if you click around this sub a bit, you'll notice that it's easy to go overboard and get too into it, and shave gear isn't cheap. But that's as much a blessing as a curse. I have three straight razors and a double edge, and I fully expect them to last me decades.
If I were you, I wouldn't jump in the pool quite that deep though. Here are the suggestions I make to most shave newbies interested in checking out the wetshaving gig:
Edwin Jagger DE 89:https://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Kelvin-Double-Safety/dp/B00K6Z24SK/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1469558129&sr=8-4&keywords=edwin+jagger+de
This is a simple, entry level razor. It comes with a few blades, but I'd recommend buying a sampler pack (and yes, I picked this pack because it has Feather blades, they are exceptional, if slightly too sharp for me. I use Sharks.):
https://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-SILVER-Blade-Sampler/dp/B004UIZFQW/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1469558238&sr=8-4&keywords=double+edge+sampler+pack
After that you'll need a brush. I'd just check the sidebar there, I use a wee scot and I suspect that not many would push you in that direction.
Then you'll want a nick stick, because dude... you'll cut yourself. It happens. Again, sidebar. But here's the cheap one that I use (don't cut myself much anymore so I don't invest in the good stuff these days):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013H6AVM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
And beyond that is the decision between soaps and cream and an aftershave. That one is up to personal preference in terms of scents and consistency.
I use this cream and like it fine: https://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=pd_cart_rp_1_4?ie=UTF8&dpID=519dkWyoBqL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_SL500_SR100%2C99_&psc=1&refRID=FTVMYYYARCCYAX4AK72N
I use this aftershave and love it to pieces, enough to spend 50 fucking dollars on it a few times a year: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007XMDQO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
This isn't a super cheap set up (about $200) but you could get a cheaper aftershave and brush and be all set for under $100 and make improvements down the line if you decide you want to keep doing this.
Here's the products I use:
I really don't think it's the soap that's the problem.
Parker 96R
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002IFFSOS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Proraso Aftershave Lotion
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0085UECY2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007MW2ZW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Go new. With vintage you run the risk of having rust on it. I personally use http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002IFFSOS/ref=mp_s_a_1_8_a_it?qid=1457711681&sr=8-8&keywords=safety+razor. Nicely balanced and doesn't break the bank. You're gonna wanna invest in a beaver hair brush. I use http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003WR3QSG/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?qid=1457713208&sr=8-2&keywords=beaver+hair+brush&pi=SY200_QL40 make sure your wash out the brush thoroughly and then you're gonna need a ceramic bowl for lathering. There are tons of YouTube videos on proper lathering techniques and blade strokes. For shaving cream http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0007MW2ZW/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?qid=1457713304&sr=8-2&keywords=shaving+cream&pi=SX200_QL40. And then you're gonna need a holder for your blade and brush for its not good for them to rest on the counter and it helps the brush naturally dry. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B017XXRM84/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?qid=1457713408&sr=8-3&keywords=brush+and+blade+stand&pi=SY200_QL40. For blades I always recommend http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001QY8QXM/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?qid=1457713447&sr=8-1&keywords=astra+blades&pi=SX200_QL40.
Hopes this points you in the right direction.
Nothing wrong with those choices at all. Here is my 2 cents for some harware, and my suggestion would be to just try as many blades as possible to start with.
Razor, Brush, Cream
Anything stirling soap sells is a bargain. Currently I'm using Electric Sheep, and I really like it. Also TOB is a popular option. If you have a bit more money to throw at it, dapper dragon, How to Grow a Moustache, and LA Shave are excellent starts to an artisan shave as well.
For an inexpensive aftershave, I'd recommend [anything by Fine] (http://www.maggardrazors.com/product-tag/fine-accoutrements/), but they are currently out of stock, so you could give Folsom a try as I hear that is has very similar performance.
When I made the switch about a year ago from cartridges & canned gel to double-edged blades and real shaving cream, the thing I enjoyed most was the better-quality shaving cream, not the blade. Switching to double-edged blades was more of a cost concern, coupled with "manliness" value. But honestly, I get a closer shave with the plastic Mach IV (or 5, I can't keep track) cartridges. But when you find a nice shaving cream, there's no going back to gel canisters. I like Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood. It whipps up to a creamy lather almost instantly (with the proper brush). I will often shave with my old Gillette razor (when I'm in a rush), but even then I will use the TOBS shaving cream.
I wouldn't buy a ready-to-go kit, especially from a supermarket-type store like Target. However, you can find countless combinations of razors, brushes and soaps all over the internet. My preferred razor is the Edwin Jagger DE89lbl. It is a fantastic razor with great weight distribution, blade expoture and it looks great too. I'm not sure how much you've looked into the different types of brushes but a few good brands that I like are Simpson (pretty pricy), Omega (better price for starters), and Edwin Jagger (in-between the two). For soaps I'd recommend TOBS Sandalwood. You can't go wrong with the scent of sandalwood IMO. If you want to spend less for soap than go with Arko. It's very cheap and will last quite a while because it is hard. Speaking of which, if you have hard water than don't go with the Arko and go with a softer soap/cream that comes in a tub like TOBS. You'll have a tough time trying to create a lather with a hard soap if you have hard water. That's all I've got for you, I don't use any pre-shave oils. One last thing, some antiseptic wouldn't be a bad idea. I hope this was helpful for you and good luck!
Here you go
Edwin Jagger De89lbl Double Edge Safety Razor Chrome Plated Lined Detail
Dovo Stainless Steel blade BLACK Handle Shavette Straight Razor Uses Replaceable DE Blades and a Brut Styptic Pencil you're going to need it
Edwin Jagger Razor Stand for Double Edged Razor or Colonel Conk Evernice Model 775 Chrome Safety Razor Stand
Double Edge Safety Razor Blade Variety Pack - 100 Blades! and/or 115 BEST Blade Sampler FEATHER SHARK ASTRA BLUEBIRD LORD GILLETTE
Edwin Jagger 1ej946sds Traditional English Best Badger Hair Shaving Brush Faux Ebony With Black Drip Stand
Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce
Proraso Shaving Cream 5.2 oz (147 g)
Bloc Osma Natural Alum Block
Ogallala Bay Rum Bonanza Sampler!
And just use a kitchen bowl to make the lather.
Edit : Made an Amazon List
I just got some C&E Sienna shaving soap. I loved it, it smells wonderful and the lather is quite good. It takes some time to get it to lather but it's worth it. If you have a spare bowl with a lid you can buy the refill for $9 either from a store near you or online (seems to be out of stock right now though). I also recommend Proraso shaving cream and Taylor of Old Bond Street sandalwood.
Happy shaving!
Have you tried this TOBS shaving cream? If you did do you like it?
Well I will say this. It's not a soap block.
It's such that all you need to do is rub the brush on it, and you got plenty of lather. With no additional water.
Here's the amazon reviews:
http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Street-Sandalwood-Shaving-Cream/product-reviews/B0007MW2ZW/ref=sr_1_1_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1
In general, from what I read, they say it has decent performance, long lasting, but that the scent might be too much for some.
First, for grooming products, it has been my (vicarious) experience that once you convert to using Taylor of Old Bond Street shaving cream you will never, ever go back. I ordered it for my father on the recommendation of a male friend who has since converted others. It's a little expensive as shaving creams go, but that little pot lasts you a good six months or more, especially if you use a shaving brush with it (you want something like boar bristle if you do that). The Sandalwood scent is your safest bet there, but feel free to go for something like Lavender if you feel adventurous.
But now for my real love...cologne. I adore cologne. It's been a while since I've taken someone cologne shopping (I used to always take my brother...which became a problem when I noticed too many attractive men smelling like my brother), and my ex refused to wear it, so I may be a little out of touch. However, I do have some recommendations.
Boss Bottled is excellent if you want a warmer, sweeter scent. It kind of reminds me of vanilla. I had a friend who regularly wore this scent, and I kid you not, my girl friends and I used to gather around taking turns smelling his jackets after he took them off. He would specifically wait to spray it on until one of us was at his place so that we could maul him over it. We LOVED that stuff.
Gucci by Gucci is a stronger, sharper smell - it's got notes of bergamot, black pepper, and leather - very "manly," one might say. Also extremely sexy, and totally ruined for me due to its association with my brother. Though I'm told it has brought him much success.
Aqua Di Gio is very common at this point, but it's popular for a reason. Avoid it if you want to smell unique, keep it if you want a step above the generic "clean man" smell.
Polo Blue is another standby, as is Armani Code...I can't remember either one specifically, but they're also well-known for good reason.
I haven't personally smelled this one, but a good friend highly, highly recommends Versace Man.
If you don't want to get fancy, most ladies like Old Spice.
And no Axe. Never, never Axe!!
(Note: all links are from random Google searches, so you may be able to find better deals elsewhere.)
Edited to add some things to the first paragraph.
Cartridge razors are quick and dirty, you can shave yourself with no problem, and rather quickly without thinking much about it, but you'll have a hard time getting a decent close cut with them. They're also expensive in the long run.
DE razors are the enthusiast's tool. You can get a very very close shave, but it takes longer, and requires learning a new way to shave (if you shave like you do with cartridge razors, you'll cut yourslef up all over the face). It'll also take trying different brands of blades until you find the kind that don't leave your face entirely red from razor burns. They're a bigger start-up investment, but extremely cheap to run - you can get packs of 100 blades for the price of 1 single cartridge razor head - and if you have a tough beard, one single DE blade will outlast an entire pack of cartridges -.
But the most important part of wet-shaving, honestly, isn't much the razor etc. It's proper application of a proper shaving cream, and a proper after shave. Just moving from a shitty foam in a can shaving cream to something like this: http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ properly applied with a bowl and brush will improve your shaving tenfold.
I suggest checking out /r/wicked_edge, it can be a little circlejerky at times when it comes to showing off gear and stuff, but there's loads of helpful advice strewn around in most submissions. Also their subreddit wiki has some starter gear for all kinds of budgets.
I'll include links but by all means shop around...
This is a more than decent starter kit and affordable but you'll also need skills. Check out this poster from /u/mmosh and search for tutorial vids on Youtube by Mantic59 and/or "Nick Shaves".
EDIT: Completely left out blades. You want to sample many kinds to find what is right for you. Something like this.
Look into using a safety razor. It's a little old-fashioned, but...
All in all, you spend most of your money up front, and then you're looking at about $3.20 or less per month for an amazing shave, depending on how little cream you use.
To be honest I have had a hard time getting good quality stuff from Amazon. I prefer them, but the smaller shops just don't have their products there. Scent is almost as important to me as the lather and the feel, so you may not enjoy what I do in that aspect.
I prefer soaps over creams I think. With a soap I can lather right from the tub rather than having to put it into a separate bowl.
My suggestions:
I would suggest avoiding Col. Conk. I did not like any of their soaps.
Plugging TOBS Sandalwood for a recommended cream... If you don't have a soap, it's notoriously easy to lather. I use it when I rush my shaves, or if I don't have time. Very good shaving cream IMHO, and it always gives reliable shaves.
Not better than my Stirling, but we're talking Amazon here, and TOBS Sandalwood Cream would be my recommendation for something to get latherin'.
For a brush, although I have not tried boar knots, the 10048 looks pretty good, and I've seen someone else recommend it already. If I was buying on a budget from Amazon, that would be my first pick.
The TOBS cream and Omega brush will set you back about what you would have paid for the VdH kit, which is rubbish from what I've heard, although I have no experience with it.
Face or palm lather the TOBS and save yourself a bowl. The mug in the VdH kit is only to put soap in anyway, and shouldn't be used to lather - only to load your brush. Even if you did try to lather in it, it's not really the 5-6 inches diameter you're gonna wish you had.
Also, if you have leftover cash, spring for some Witch Hazel. Stuff is frickin magical. Apply right before you apply aftershave balm, and let it sit for a minute or so to really tighten up your face.
If you have even more leftover funds, or opt to get WH at your local drugstore, apparently Clearly Natural Glycerin Soap is a good pre-shave. I use MR GLO, but people have told me that any high-glycerin soap makes a nearly equivalent MR GLO substitute. And, for the price of less than one puck of MR GLO, you get 3 bars of Clearly Natural. Hooray for hydration and slickness!
And if you're in for a splurge, get a fancy stand. Adds counter appeal - totally unnecessary, but cool.
Good buy on the Nivea Sensitive ASB, and sub the EJ for a Parker 24c, per /u/leisureguy's post. He's never steered me wrong. Both purchases I've made based on his recommendations have worked out great, which were my Plisson brush and MR GLO.
As for the sample pack, you're probably better off spending some out-of-pocket dough on tryablade.com, or any of the other sample pack resellers. Get your money's worth.
P.S. - Don't forget to soak your boar brush (should you select it) in hot water for a few minutes before you try lathering with it. Boar brushes also have a break-in period, so be mindful that your first few shaves/lathers may be less than desirable.
DEs? Not that hard. Check out /r/wicked_edge for tips. The key is to go in multiple passes (first with the grain of your beard) and use as little pressure as possible, practically hovering over your skin. You can be aggressive with cartridges (you kind of have to be, even), but not with DEs.
The risk with a safety razor isn't too high. You can get nicks, but it's only a little more dangerous than a cartridge in that regard. I do recommend getting a bit of gear to start with that you might not have, such as:
I also love and use Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor,and the Carbon Steel Straight Razor 6/8" w/ Box
Then in that case if you want to up the ante of gift giving, (i ordered all my supplies on Amazon since i have Amazon student and 2 day free shipping) but i also ordered a stand. Like you can build your own kit really nicely and then arrange it for him as a surprise!
Razor
Blades
Badger brush
Stand
Shaving cream, my favorite
And as for a cup to mix the shaving cream? Don't bother buying one just use a short mug it's much easier
Also, think about it this way, when you are using a regular 4 bladed razor you need to go over each spot at least 2 times right? That's as if 8 individual razors went over that spot. With a single blade you usually get every hair in one pass but sometimes you need 2-3 but still, 2-3 is less that the original 4 so you're regardless way less likely to get razor burn
If you're looking for something specifically on amazon, then I would recommend taylor of old bond street either sandalwood or avocado. Both lather very well. Additionally, my wife makes shave soaps that lather very well, her products is called mason boutique shave soaps. My favorites are Octane, Bobcat, Maya, and TLM.
Shaving Cream: Taylor of Old Bond https://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW
Razor: Viking Chieftain Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Chieftain-Safety-Swedish-Platinum/dp/B011L8WJIA?th=1
Routine: Shower with hot water > don't dry face > lather cream with brush in bowl > lather on face > shave > wash face > apply aftershave lotion
I don't shave often enough to have a lot of weight behind my recommendations, but I have found that the quality of the brush is nearly as important as the cream/soap (or at least, you don't want the cheapest piece of crap brush you can find). I personally use this brush, this cream, and this after-shave balm.
I am assuming you want a clean shave? Not the stubble look?
My personal preference for shaving the parts of my face that are unbeareded or for the rare occasions I forget that I look like a man baby without facial hair is a double edged razor and this shaving cream
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1464852677&sr=8-2&keywords=shaving+cream
Pick up a sample pack of blades too too see which ones you prefer, I tend to use feather blades.
This guide might help you with shaving. Personally I tend to skip the across the grain part to save time but that doesn't mean its the best way to do it.
http://www.shaving-shack.com/blog/shaving-against-the-grain-do-or-dont/
I second /u/Blasphemy4kidz . I started with his suggestion, and it's been working fabulously so far! My top picks for razor blades are
You'll save a ton of money buying these; a 100 pack of razors is $10 ish, and if you're like me you'll only use one per week, or two weeks. That comes out to about two years' worth of razor blades.
I use Proraso Shaving Soap, but I've been eyeing this one for a while, Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl.
http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1393701363&sr=8-2&keywords=taylor+of+old+bond+street
This bad boy will last you a long time and is the best shave cream I've ever used.
Here you go. I ordered some yesterday and it showed up today. This stuff is incredible.
http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW
I was using Proraso Red before it and there's simply no comparison. You will get a fantastic shave with this cream, and it smells amazing!
Get yourself a variety pack of razors. Your face will react differently to each one and after you've tried several you'll know which to buy more next time you make a purchase.
As for building a lather, check out some of the many videos like this one by mantic59. After some time you'll find what works best for you but this video provides some basics. Once you've committed yourself to wetshaving you'll find all sorts of ways to build lather - mug, palm, stick, scuttle and others. For the college student I'd recommend Proraso's shave soap or one of the many Taylor of Old Bond Street options as they are both in their own bowl, which saves a bit, for now.
Since prep is critical for a nice shave I'd invest in a nice pre shave soap and/or cream. I use Musgo Real Glyco Lime Oil soap and Proraso's pre/post cream.
The Merkur 180 razor you've listed is what I use and I love it. I don't have experience with the Col. Conk soap but I'm sure it's fine. Leisureguy has recommended Proraso's glycerin soap in previous posts. I think I use the same brush you linked to and it's fine. If you'd like to check out some better options Bull Goose Shaving offers some good priced horse hair and Whipped Dog offers some neat options for silvertip brushes. BTW, Larry over at Whipped Dog can make you a brush and bowl combo, just pick out the color options yourself.
*edit: a less expensive sampler pack.
Get the Taylor of Old Bond Street cream. Girlfriend licked my face. She was displeased with the taste, but thoroughly enjoyed the smell.
Everyone is touting safety razors for a reason. Here is what you want...
Pick up a Merkur Classic safety razor.
https://www.amazon.com/MERKUR-Classic-MK-34C-2-Piece-Double/dp/B002A8JO1Q/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=merkur&qid=1565340143&s=gateway&sr=8-4&th=1
Then buy some Feather refill blades (they are the sharpest I have found without dragging)
https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Blades-30-Ct/dp/B002OCANQI/ref=sr_1_7?crid=3F44F5VGGF2N1&keywords=feather+razor+blades&qid=1565340348&s=gateway&sprefix=feather+%2Caps%2C186&sr=8-7
Get a nice silver tip badger shaving brush
https://www.amazon.com/Parker-Safety-Razor-Silvertip-Bristle/dp/B00LEU3PJS/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=badger+shaving+brush&qid=1565340426&s=gateway&sr=8-4
A decent quality razor and brush stand
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0725X6TNH/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B0725X6TNH&pd_rd_w=vS9lk&pf_rd_p=8dbd62ec-d8d3-48e5-b85d-16f701719d81&pd_rd_wg=MJlWF&pf_rd_r=AWB84ARTRPN3QVS12KKD&pd_rd_r=e316a787-1b5c-4984-8255-71ebf10c06f0&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyT0pTWlZPSTkwRTk1JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODY4ODA2Mzk3VjNBV1hDUUhIWCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTk1NTY5U0xYWkpYODJXTE41JndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfZGV0YWlsX3RoZW1hdGljJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==
A good shaving cup to get a nice lather
https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Chairman-Shaving-Stainless-Standard/dp/B07GF6ZKTP/ref=pd_bxgy_194_3/143-9531827-5381065?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B072PRBWXR&pd_rd_r=4c94e9c8-bddd-4e03-bdd9-5bfe1d171d33&pd_rd_w=WFwmN&pd_rd_wg=yvSPW&pf_rd_p=a2006322-0bc0-4db9-a08e-d168c18ce6f0&pf_rd_r=YR6K9GZT62D1RRN31AB3&refRID=YR6K9GZT62D1RRN31AB3&th=1
Then grab some Tabac or Taylor of Old Bond Street shaving pucks. (I prefer Tabac since it reminds me of my father and grandfather. Traditions die hard I guess)
https://www.amazon.com/Tabac-Original-Maurer-Shaving-Ounces/dp/B000GHYXG4/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=tabac&qid=1565340634&s=beauty&sr=1-2
Taylor of Old Bond Street
https://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=OHNKVBMKBAAT&keywords=taylor+of+old+bond+street+shaving+cream&qid=1565340657&s=beauty&sprefix=taylor+of+old%2Cbeauty%2C191&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1&smid=AMAE8K0LRQPCN&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyUzlaRTNXNjZUS1c4JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNDY4ODE3MU00RVdWVzg1UlFPWiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjA4ODg2NEE1UFZJQ1pTMllXJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==
Razor: GD 800 6/8 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B7RM6MU/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i03?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Brush: escali shaving brush http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003WR3QSG/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Shaving cream:Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007MW2ZW/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Pre-Shave Oil: The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Pre-Shave Oil http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000I2XL38/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Strop: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0070OJL40/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
These are some options I've been looking at if I were to build my own set:
Razor
Brush
Soap
What do you think?
I made the switch about 2 months ago to a safety razor, brush, and nice shaving cream. I love it. It takes a while to get used to, but I watched mantic59's videos before starting and they helped a lot. I used to use those crappy multibladed razors, then tried an electric razor, but safety razor is by far the best.
I use Taylor of Old Bond and it's great. If you do go this route, make sure you also grab a nice alcohol free aftershave, I use some Proraso aftershave.
I feel somewhat wasteful as I just bought a can of barbasol, but it was $1.50 so no big deal. Do you have any experience with this brand, I'm a sucker for sandalwood and the reviews are mostly very positive. And I've already got a brush, I was doing a traditional wet shave for several years until about a week ago.
Thanks for all the advice.
Wow, that's one loaded response :)
What do you think of this soap? I haven't checked the ingredients, it's highest rated soap on amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1422463907&sr=1-1
You may like Taylor of Old Bond St. I have the Lavender scent and it's great.
So I ordered all the stuff you recommended, except for these different things:
Cream
Razor
Bowl
Again, thank you so much for your help in ordering these
Brush, soap, and blades. Greyser gives you some good ones. Some other soaps/creams to look at:
>Tired Old Ass Splash
I'm afraid to know what it smells like.
This is what I use. http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1450464981&sr=8-5&keywords=shaving+cream
I don't think it will last more than 6 cans. I already used half of it and it's only been 2 months. I usually get 6 weeks out of a single can.
Yeah you really don't have to press at all. I usually don't have to do much to my face. Wet it with some warm water. Then I wet my brush with warm water, then apply some shave butter to the brush. While doing this I keep my razor under hot water. You can get some pretty good shaves not going against the grain, so don't think you have to. Take your time. You will cut yourself many times. The neck is the easiest part, you just can't apply any pressure and have to take it easy. The hardest part is the chin/jaw line. Oh, and for gods sake don't use normal shaving cream. It's some of the worst stuff you can use. I just bought this about three weeks ago and is easily the best I've used so far. It has such a manly smell too.
I've been with a straight razor for two years.
You can make your own shave oil pretty easy. I take Vitamin E caps and empty them out into a bottle of olive oil. Some people cut their olive oil with castor oil to varying proportions. Tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil are two popular choices too.
I've been using Taylor of Old Bond Street sandal wood shaving cream for the last few months. There's a lot of it, and I only need to brush a little bit on for a full shave, so it will last me. The container is its own shaving bowl, and it's premade mix so you can pop the lid off and go for it. It smells nice.
For after shave, I do a half and half mix of witch hazel and aloe vera gel. If he has oily skin, do 3/4ths witch hazel to a 1/4th aloe vera gel. You can let aromatics steep in the witch hazel if you'd like to add a scent to it. Pick something good though, because it will last a long time.
YAY I FINALLY HAVE A GOOD ONE TO ANSWER. I used to have problems with acne and irritation after shaving, the solution is to switch to a straight razor. Now I have no irritation whatsoever due to the incredible smoothness of the shave, plus it’s much more precise, leaves my face smoother than a... really smooth object, and is much faster and easier than normal shaving. It wasn’t even expensive either. I bought this razor for my first , only 13 bucks: https://www.amazon.com/Classic-Samurai-Stainless-Professional-Straight/dp/B00O9NCCBO/ref=sr_1_2?crid=36WZ2FL4ZG2CC&keywords=classic+samurai+cs-102&qid=1557290280&s=gateway&sprefix=Classic+sa%2Caps%2C176&sr=8-2
To go with that I bought this brush: https://www.amazon.com/Escali-100-Badger-Shaving-Brush/dp/B003WR3QSG/ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_3?crid=287WXPKDWWK2R&keywords=escali+shaving+brush&qid=1557290439&s=gateway&sprefix=Escalig+shaving+brush%2Caps%2C185&sr=8-3-fkmrnull
And this shaving soap: https://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=RPF87ZEXZ4M3&keywords=taylor+of+old+bond+street&qid=1557290478&s=gateway&sprefix=Tailor+of+%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&smid=AMAE8K0LRQPCN
Then I just watched a tutorial and was VERY careful on my first few attempts. Now that I’ve had practice I can do a full shave in about 3 minutes. Crucially, this solved my issues with irritation and pimples, so go for it OP, you cannot possibly regret it.
>cornerstone low foaming gel
I could not find an ingredient list on their website, so I cant be sure how good the product is.
​
If you are in the UK, truly excellent shaving products are available to you locally.
Here is a list of worldwide vendors, including the UK.
https://www.reddit.com/r/wicked_edge/wiki/stores_vendors
​
For example here is a set of an Omega boar brush & Arko soap on Amazon UK. The scent of the Arko isn't anything to write home about, but it is truly an excellent performer.
Palmolive shaving stick is available in most malls for less than £1 & is an excellent product.
If you want to go slightly more upmarket, see here & here.
Agreed! But I'm partial to BlueBird blades... a little sharper and last a little longer than Shark (which are also good) but they won't shave your face off like you can with Feather blades... and a little cheaper too!
My razor is a Parker 91R Super Heavyweight (I like it)... and it's inexpensive.
And then for my shave cream I use Taylor of Old Bond Street... a little goes a very long way. The stuff is great.
A good badger shave brush and a shave mug.... maybe some pre-shave oil if you really want to take your time. And you got yourself a shave that is far closer and more comfortable than an expensive as hell cheaply-made multi-bladed razor...
Sure upfront costs are slightly higher, but in the long run you save tons of money... plus you get a better shave. What's not to love?
You can save some money on that TOBS and put it toward something else.
I think he's just talking about loading soap onto the brush then making a lather on directly your face.
Edit: I have a hard soap and that takes fair bit longer to load onto the brush than my tub of TOBS shaving cream.
http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1398271247&sr=8-2&keywords=shave+soap is what I decided to try.
All you need is one of these: Merkur HD Slant Safety Razor 37C and a box of these: 100 Feather Razor Blades NEW Hi-stainless Double Edge and you are set for a long time.
I shave two or three times a year, whether I need to or not (got to stay employed!), so I will most likely die before I make it through all my razors, but even if I shaved daily (the horrors!) I would still go this route. A dollar shave is an expensive shave!
Add a shaving brush, a mug, some soap, and a stand. If you know a better way to shave, that doesn't involve Peter Dinklage standing on the counter and doing it for you, then I want to hear about it.
Edited to add: A shave should be a pleasure. If you are not enjoying it, then you are doing it wrong.
then legitimately, just snag a safety razor, 20 dollar steel one, and a 10 dollar 100 blade pack.
bam, you've got shaving supplies for a year.
Get soap later if you care, it's just another way to save money. A thing of soap lasts years. You just lather it up with a brush.