Whether you Soap for Shaving prefer using soft shave cream over hard shaving soap, a quality shave brush can make all the difference to your shaving success. Not only should a quality shave brush retain enough hot water to whip thick glycerin based emulsions into a slurry of rich creamy lather, it should also be firm enough to lift the whiskers without irritating the skin.
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While boars bristle, horse hair and synthetic fibers are popular choices for shavers on a dental floss budget, shaving aficionados around the world all agree that badger hair brushes lead the field as the ultimate shaving accoutrement. The cost of a Badger hair shave brush can range from $15 to $1500 depending on the quality, density and rarity of the hair that has been harvested. The type of material and design elements that make up the handle can also be a significant factor in the overall price. Keep in mind that ornate handles made from exotic materials or precious metals might serve an esthetic need but can be too fragile for the environment or difficult to maintain. The true pleasure and efficacy is found in the quality and density of the fibers themselves.
Because brush manufacturers have their own methods for determining the grade and corresponding name given to their product, it doesn't take long for a novice shaver to become confused when they have to chose from pure, best, super, silver tip, extra silvertip, mid grade, bleached, machine cut, hand finished, etc. Ambiguities like "Silvertip" beats "Best" and "Pure" being inferior to "Bleached" can drive a shaver back to his Propane propelled can of foam in no time.
Like all new regimens, a certain amount of trial and error will have to play out before you are sure you have found the right brush for you. In the meantime, here are my TOP 3 TIPS to help minimize buyer's remorse.
Soak your brush in hot water. Apply a dime size amount of shave lather directly on to your cheek. Gently flick brush to remove excess water and begin priming the lather directly against the skin using a circular upward motion. Continue adding hot water throughout the shave to regenerate the lather. Always exercise caution when using HOT water.
You could also add your shave lather to a shaving bowl or prime it onto the palm of your hand. However, keep in mind that the more time you spend priming away from the face, the less time you get to enjoy a hot lather which is a huge part of the pleasure factor.
If you prefer to use a hard shaving soap, prime the lather by using the brush as if you were buttering a piece of bread or painting. Do not force your brush into the soap causing the bristles to splay outwards like a mop. You will damage you bristles and lose much of the water that should stay within the fibers.
How to care for your badger bristle brush:
Prior to using your new brush, wash well with soap and warm water. After daily use, rinse the brush under clean, warm water. Squeeze or shake out residual water before hanging brush in its holder with the bristles facing down. Allow brush to dry thoroughly before storing to avoid any unnecessary damage to the bristles.
For optimal care and sanitation, add ¼ teaspoon of Borax to a cup of boiling water. Submerge bristles and soak for 10 minutes. Rinse with fresh warm water and store as usual. Repeat once a month.
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The preparation taken and the equipment used are the most important aspects when it comes to a perfect shave. The shaving lubricant is one of the most important things to ensure a good shave.
The choices available are varied, such as, shaving gel, shaving foam, shaving cream, soap or shaving oil. Many people are confused about which is the best one among them. The main use of any lubricant is to assist the razor to glide in a smooth manner over the face. The chances of a razor burn, a cut or a nick are less if a shaving lubricant is used. The skin is also protected by the lubricant as it typically moisturises the skin at the same time as softening the hairs. The texture and the quality is the key while choosing any shaving lubricant. Whatever lubricant you decide on, just make sure that it is compatible with your preferred method of shaving - razor or electric shaver.
One of the most convenient lubricants that one can use is a shaving foam. It is very easy to apply and dispense. However, you need to pay more to get a good quality foam. Some of the cheaper varieties can cause the skin to dry and can also clog the razor. This makes shaving more difficult than it needs to be. So if you want to use foam make sure you get a quality product and avoid the cheaper varieties. One should be able to have a great shave if the right product is chosen. Also, make sure that the pressurized can is safe for the environment.
The shaving gel is a newer introduction in the market and is also very convenient. This lubricant comes in the form of a gel and after rubbing forms lather. Some lathers remain clear which makes it easier to see where the razor is gliding. Again, as with foams, the cheaper varieties can cause the skin to dry out. Therefore go for the best quality you can. There are some gels which come in bottles rather than cans and are excellent for the skin as they contain moisturisers. It is important to choose a gel carefully to ensure that it has the right ingredients and the right properties for the type of shaving one intends to perform.
Shaving creams are generally non-alcohol based and their make-up is mostly of glycerine soap. This makes it a great choice as it not only softens the hair but it also protects the skin. The cream can be applied using a shaving brush or applied direct to the skin. These creams help retain the moisture in the skin and are good for most skin types. Furthermore, there are no harsh chemicals which make them easy on the skin and they leave the skin smooth, soft and pampered. You are likely to experience much less irritation than other methods as well as get a really close shave. Shaving cream can be more time consuming to use than other lubricants but it is worth it.
A facial soap of a good quality can also be used for shaving. This can also be very effective method and good for the skin as long as you choose one that doesn't contain alcohol. The important thing to remember is that a good quality lubricant is a sure way of helping to reduce burns, nicks and cuts.