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The True History of After Shave Lotion

We all remember those days as children when our fathers or grandfathers stood at the mirror using a safety razor, swishing the razor in the sink full of steamy water. We also remember the part of the shaving routine when dad or grandad would pull the Old Spice or other brand out of the medicine cabinet, dashing after shave lotion into one palm, rubbing hands together and then smacking or dabbing onto his face. That scent would linger for an hour or more after he left for work and his car or truck carried the fragrance forever.

Times have changed. Shaving has changed. But no shaving routine is complete without application of a great post shave lotion. Just like men have been doing for centuries, you always end your shave with after shave lotion.

After shave lotion first became popular as a means of preventing infection. Razors of old were not sharp like today’s blades. So shaving was more laborious and heavy-handed. Many cuts and nicks were expected, when going in for a shave.Such cuts could easily become inflamed and infected because of unsanitary conditions of those times when no one knew about bacteria and sterilization. A bad shave could do more than cut you. It could actually result in a fatal infection.

As being clean-shaven became fashionable, barbers realized they needed to help take care of cuts using antiseptic at the end of shaves. They also wanted to provide extra attention to their customers in order to keep those men coming back to the barber shop.

Roman barbers applied plaster with therapeutic ingredients on it to the face. This soothed the skin. The therapeutic qualities came from a spider web soaked in oil and vinegar. The vinegar’s acidity burned bacteria away while the oil moisturized. Just imagine, though, how these men smelled after their shave.

Hungarians started experimenting with lotions, fragrances and aromatic waters. Those methods took hold and spread across Europe and into America. By 1770, no barber shave was complete without post shave lotion. Jean-Jacques Perret was responsible for teaching many men how to give themselves the perfect shave through his book, “The Art of Learning to Shave Oneself.” In that book he touted use of after shave colognes.

Today’s After Shave

Today’s after shave includes antiseptic for prevention of infection or inflammation. This antiseptic is stearate citrate, isopropyl alcohol or denature alcohol. The antiseptic also closes pores to prevent pimples. Witch hazel is also a good anti-inflammatory astringent, as used in Taylor of Old Bond Street Luxury After Shave Gel.

A second component of today’s after shave is moisturizing oil. This oil keeps the skin hydrated and smooths its surface. Some skin moisturizers in after shave also nourish the skin, using ingredients such as olive oil. Edwin Jagger After Shave with Aloe Vera is a great choice for its moisturizing properties.

The third primary ingredient of after shave is fragrance. Obviously, fragrance is for vanity reasons and does not provide other benefits beyond the senses. One popular scent of after shave is Taylor of Old Bond Street’s Eaton College After Shave.

As history evolves and we find different methods of wet shaving, it is important to consider different shaving kits that have all mens essentials including pre and post shave solutions in addition to the most professional beauty tools used by many artists today.

Posted on April 28, 2016October 17, 2017 by Sean Mason

Choosing The Best Wet Shaving Supplies For Beginners

The definition of Wet Shaving is classified as the process of hydrating ones face with warm water or a warm towel to soften the skin before lathering of soap or similar lubrication is applied. This process is different when compared to non-lubricated shaving because it’s a longer process which provides a unique experience for it’s users. Although the need for a quick trim comes up from time to time, the traditional wet shave is definitely the way to enjoy this routine with patience and time. People all over the world choose this route for the reward of the closest shave possible. However, what if you need some assistance identifying the best wet shaving supplies? Let us take a look at some of the common tools involved in wet shaving.

The Basic Wet Shaving Supplies

Most wet shaving kits available comprise of a razor, pre-shave solution, brush, cream or soap and an after shave solution which seals in the final step. Let us take an in depth look at each of these aspects.

The actual tool that cuts the hair on your face and body is classified as the shaving razor. There are many different types which might suit your needs. Some of the most common types of grooming tools is the cartridge, double edged safety and the straight razor. It’s important to educate yourself on the difference of wet shaving supplies so you know exactly what works for you. Let’s take a quick look at each of these so you could determine which one is a right fit for you.

Cartridge Razor

The cartridge razor is one of the most popular and common choices due to its mass availability and safe design which allows anyone to shave quickly and effectively without worrying too much about cutting themselves. Companies like Gillette and Schick have been producing this tool for many years and continue to introduce new models which are appealing visually and aesthetically. Most cartridge razors have a thin strip which releases a lubricant made from polyethylene oxide onto the skin. This nontoxic solution is not necessary but often used by manufacturers to remind customers to change their cartridge once the lubricating strip, AKA expiration strip, has been depleted.

Safety Razor

The Safety Razor, although similar to the cartridge shaver, provides a different experience since safety blades do not come with lubricating strips. Grooming yourself with a safety razor has a classic feel and provides a very close trim when performed properly with 2 or even 3 stage passes. The safety blade is back by popular demand due to rising costs with wet shaving supplies. In comparison to the cartridge shaver, the safety razor incorporates blades which run pennies each compared to expensive cartridge razors. Safety Razors are easy to use and have safe shaving functionality with its top and bottom bar holding the blade in place.

Straight Blade

The straight blade is the oldest type of grooming tool available for those who want a raw, old school feel which is not only super sharp but demands a steep learning curve if you are just starting out. The straight blade is not a tool which should be used for on the run, quick shaves. In fact, performing a straight blade shave quickly could cause major cuts/damage to ones skin since these tools do not have any form of safety bar or strip attached. Once the art of shaving with a straight blade is perfected, it is hard to achieve a closer and more satisfying experience with any other tool.

Pre Shave Solution

Preparing your skin before you start cutting away is called the pre shave process. Many consumers have sensitive skin and require the use of a pre shave solution during this process. Most solutions are made of botanical ingredients and essentials oils which are safe on the skin and provide the lubrication needed for your razor to glide across the skin instead of being pulled across the skin. This pull is what creates bumps and cuts which is why many swear by using a pre shave solution.

Simpsons Shaving Brush - Berkeley 46 Pure Badger — Berkeley 46 Pure Badger

Facial Brush

One of the most important parts of the wet shaving supplies requires the use of a brush. This part is extremely important because a shave brush not only massages your skin and prepares your face for the sharp blade, it also stands up the stubborn hair on your body which need to be sliced correctly to avoid downstream irritation and ingrown hairs. Without a doubt, using a shaving brush will provide a closer and cleaner shave so if this is your goal, purchasing one is the best investment for your daily routine. These brushes come in different bristles which include but is not limited to synthetic hair, boar, badger and horse hair bristles. Finding the right one for you might not be as easy as you think. Since different brushes feel different on the skin, you might have to try a few of them before you find your “go to” brush. Most wet shavers starting out choose to go with synthetic brushes since these brushes work up a lather quickly and don’t require too much effort. Wet Shavers who are a little more experienced go for the badger brush route which is arguably the best type of hair used for facial shaving.

Creams vs Soaps

Many wonder what the difference is between creams and soaps. The difference is mainly preference and whichever solution you feel great with. Historically, shave soap’s were one of the first types of solutions available but has since evolved with the many different versions of this soap which has transitioned to creams, gels and oils.

One important aspect to keep in mind is that creams or soaps provide the lubrication needed for your razor to glide across your skin but shouldn’t dry your face in the process of it. Many aerosol type creams have a solution called butane in them. Butane could dry your skin and provide more long term harm which is why it is not recommended to use any form of cream or soap which contains this chemical.

After Shave Solution

Col Conk Unscented After Shave Lotion — Col Conk

Sealing in your shave after all the previous steps have been completed is ideal. Many people swear by splashing cold water on their face after a shave to close out your skins pores. You can enhance this process by using an Alum block. The alum block is generally a clear potassium block used as a blood coagulant. This stops the bleeding of any cuts or bumps if you were too aggressive on your skin. Using an after shave solution is key to moisturizing your skin and keeping you feeling fresh and ready to take on any of the days obstacles so make sure you don’t ignore this step.

Choosing The Right Wet Shaving Supplies For You

Choosing the right wet shaving supplies isn’t something that is achieved overnight and could take a while to perfect. Understanding which shaving essentials work for you is key and what you should focus on during your wet shaving journey. An important fact to remember is to always allow the shaving razor to do the work. Meaning, don’t use excessive pressure when shaving because a sharp razor will cut the growth appropriately without needed force. It’s important to find a shaving store which can provide insight on shaving essentials and tools by answering your questions. The classic art of wet shaving isn’t for everyone but if you’re ready to take your skin care to the next level, we hope this guide has helped you jumpstart your journey. As always, please contact us 24/7 with your inquiries on shaving goods and we will reply right away.

Posted on April 25, 2016October 17, 2017 by Sean Mason

How Edwin Jagger Made Their Footprint In The Art of Wet Shaving

Born and operated in Sheffield, England, Edwin Jagger is a preeminent male grooming brand. Since 1988 this family owned business has held firmly to integrity, inspired design and quality as their cornerstones.

In the past 20 years, Edwin Jagger has grown from a small local company to a globally recognized brand. They produce products for delivery to every area of the world, including special commissions by luxury brands in the U.S. and Great Britain for design of exclusive wet shaving products.

Edwin Jagger Safety Razor Gold DE89BA11Gbl — Edwin Jagger Wet Shaving Razor

Edwin Jagger’s following has grown largely because of the amount of attention and care the founder, Neil Ernst Edwin Jagger, has invested in the product line. He designs each implement and product with the meticulousness also applied to the manufacturing process. Edwin Jagger has become a well-established example of traditional British style. Together with state-of-the-art design, modern production and renowned Sheffield craftsmanship heritage, the brand exemplifies Sheffield, England and the art of grooming.

Known for bringing high quality and style to the wet shaving experience, Jagger’s line includes shaving brushes, razors, soaps, creams, lotions and accessories. Beard products like beard oil and beard shampoo are also part of the collection, for those who prefer to not go 100 percent clean-shaven.

Razors

Edwin Jagger is widely known for razor quality with exquisite design. The brand’s home of Sheffield, England in South Yorkshire is regarded for its steel craftsmanship, as it has been since the 1800s. This craftsmanship is reflected in the traditional quality of the razor line.

The brand knows when to provide convenience to customers and likewise, when to not reinvent the wheel. So many of the line’s razors use Gillette® Fusion® ProGlide™ and Gillette® Mach 3® blades, such as the handsome Fusion Razor R35711F.

Brushes

Edwin Jagger Shaving Brush - Pure Badger 81P27 — Edwin Jagger Wet Shaving Brush Made of Pure Badger

The brand’s shaving brushes are also very popular. Only the highest quality badger hair from the species Meles Meles will do, so the company has eight resident badgers that supply freshly cut hair after their own luxuriously pampering shampoo and conditioning. For over 200 years badger hair has been used for shaving brushes due to its water absorptive quality. This absorption provides rich, foamy lather when used with quality shaving soap or cream.

The brushes also lift and soften beard hair in preparation for shaving. Using a badger hair brush like the Pure Badger 81P26, shave quality is top notch, facial skin is improved and the shave just feels great.

Edwin Jagger Shaving Cream Cooling Menthol SCCMT — Edwin Jagger Wet Shaving Cream

Shaving Cream and Soap

Natural ingredients and organic plant derivatives are used to create the brand’s shaving creams and soaps. The line features a variety of cream and soap options, such as traditional hard soaps, premium creams and aftershave lotions. Each of the soaps and creams lather luxuriously with subtle fragrance of aloe vera and sandalwood. One such favorite is the Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl.

Shaving Accessories

Hand crafted soap bowls and wood, metal or porcelain shaving dishes are featured as part of the renowned English line. Shaving collections such as the safety blade set are extremely popular for men who want to add luxury and tradition to their shaving experience.

Posted on April 15, 2016October 23, 2017 by Sean Mason

The History of Col Conk and His Shaving Empire

Colonel Ichabod Conk, or Col. Conk as he is simply known, is a legendary figure among those who love a quality shave. Today’s Col Conk is a line of namesake-inspired shaving products. Yesterday’s Col Conk was a dapper gentleman who found himself inspired by love, looking good and smelling great.

History of Colonel Ichabod Conk and His Shaving Empire

Colonel Ichabod Conk was said to have been dapper and velvety-voiced, a man with legendary status due to his comings and goings which eventually led him to Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Colonel Conk was made a pauper by the Civil War, like many men and women of that time. Rather than giving up to his lost comforts, he chose to travel to New Mexico and settle in Albuquerque, still very much the wild, wild west. He lived there for awhile before becoming acquainted with a lady who owned several barber shops in the growing but dusty town. If ever there was a place that men needed help with a shave, it would be out west.

It could be said that Colonel Conk married “up” in status, but marrying the shave shop owner was the best thing he ever did for himself and generations of men who love his products. Colonel Conk’s wife spent her days shaving men’s faces. One has to wonder whether Colonel Conk joined her to learn a new trade, earn his keep, or keep his eye on his new darling’s heart and status. Whatever his reason for picking up his first shaving mug and razor blade, this is when his real history began.

Colonel Conk became very good at a close shave, thanks to his wife’s introduction to the art. He helped his wife in both shaving of customers and accounting for the amassing fortune. Colonel Conk’s fiery spirit soon led to the idea of packaging the shaving products he and his wife used every day for sale to men all over the dusty, dirty west. Colonel Conk seems to have made it his personal mission to ensure the cowboys, pioneers, gunslingers, merchants, railroad men and gentlemen of the wide-open frontier looked as dapper as men from big cities of the east.

Col Conk started building his sales empire with shaving products and other toiletries. The business grew and expanded until he passed away in 1898. Sadly, Col Conk’s shaving empire died with him.

Col Conk Reincarnated

Colonel Conk lives on, however. His shaving name and likeness brand today’s Col Conk line of glycerine shave soap, lotions, beard care, mugs, brushes, aftershaves, balms and so much more.

To emulate the clean shaven, dapper style of Colonel Ichabod Conk, now all you have to do is visit the Original Shave Company. There, you will find a full array of Col Conk products, like the original proprietary glycerine shaving soap, pre-shave oil and handsome gift sets.

Posted on April 14, 2016October 23, 2017 by Sean Mason