Learning about wet-shaving concepts and techniques doesn't have to be hard or take countless hours researching online. Razor Emporium is committed to educating and empowering new and experienced shavers with essential information that will make this hobby more enjoyable.
Get A Great Shave
If you’ve never used a vintage razor and shaving brush, you may be unfamiliar with how to get started. Worry not, it’s easier than you think.
- Wash up. Start by rinsing your face with water. Water is what makes this “wet” shaving; providing hydration to your beard is key to a good shave. Most people enjoy warm water to open pores and soften the hair.
- Create your lather. Using your shaving brush, mix water and shaving soap or cream together to create a lather. The important trick here is to make a hydrated lather that is not too runny or dry. Work the brush and soap vigorously into your beard using circular motions, avoiding a “painting” stroke. The job of a brush is to not simply apply, but to build the shaving lather into and around your hair follicles.
- Start Shaving. Whether you’re using a safety razor or a straight razor, the two most important factors are angle and pressure. With a vintage razor, there is no flexible head that contours to your face; you must find the right shaving angle (usually between 20-30 degrees). The other variable to keep in mind is pressure. Because most of us have formed bad habits from modern cartridge razors, you must keep in mind that the weight of the razor does the work. In addition, lathering up several times and completing “passes” across your beard will get it the smoothest. Using with-the-grain,across-the-grain and against-the-grain strokes, you can achieve a close shave while minimizing irritation.
- Clean Up. It’s that simple! When you’re done shaving, rinse your face with cool water to help close pores and sooth your skin. At this point, apply either a shaving balm, after shave, or lotion to your face to help your face recover from the exfoliation the razor edge provides. If you’re prone to dry skin, avoid products that contain alcohol, as this can worsen the situation.
Vintage Razor Rating Guide
Understanding the condition of vintage razors has never been easier. We've created a 5 tiered rating guide that should cover just about any safety or straight razor you come across.
New Old Stock
Original and un-opened packaging as it was manufactured The condition of the razor itself is not in question- in fact sometimes aging has damaged the razor inside of the packaging, yet it still remains un-opened.
Mint
Appears as though it just left the factory floor Packaging has been opened but all items are in perfect condition All price tags, instructions, blades, shippers and boxes should be present.
Excellent
Some packaging materials missing No flaws to the plating or paint- no scratches or marks.
Good
Slight blemishes present Some missing paint or small scratches.
Shaveable
Moderate damage or wear present Mechanically sound, aesthetically flawed.
