I recently switched from modern multi-blade razors to a traditional safety razor. Finding that multiple blades were skidding ineffectively over my skin, I bought a cheap Wilkinson safety razor with five double-edge (DE) blades in search of a closer shave.
I have to say that it has transformed my shaving. However, as confidence grew, I wanted to try a better razor and a wider range of blades and shaving products. The I discovered The Personal Barber who send a box (as shown below) which provides all you need to get started with a traditional safety razor. This is followed by a monthly box with replacement blades and samples of shaving soaps and products such as oils, colognes, soaps and pre- and after-shaves.
I have to say that it has transformed my shaving. However, as confidence grew, I wanted to try a better razor and a wider range of blades and shaving products. The I discovered The Personal Barber who send a box (as shown below) which provides all you need to get started with a traditional safety razor. This is followed by a monthly box with replacement blades and samples of shaving soaps and products such as oils, colognes, soaps and pre- and after-shaves.
With the first box The Personal Barber gives excellent advice for the inexperienced double-edge blade shaver. One thing I learned was that different brands produce slightly different blades. Having tried Wilkinson and Derby Extra blades, I've found that the latter suit me better, being sightly less aggressive and lasting a day or two longer. Double-edge blades last for 5 to 7 shaves. This is less than multiple blades, but a DE blade can cost well under 10p each if bought in bulk, while multiple blades can cost £1 each.
Bradley Jones of The Personal Barber tells me that,
"The underlying aim of The Personal Barber is to get people to enjoy the act of shaving itself rather than seeing it as a daily chore. Wet shaving tends to be a far more enjoyable experience, I believe, because it is more of a ritual and because it requires technique. The ritual of wet shaving is very calm and satisfying which can be needed in the morning. The technique involved in wet shaving such as building a thick lather, holding the blade at the right angle, applying the correct level of pressure etc means it doesn't become a mindless task which can be the case when using plastic cartridge razors. I've found that most wet shavers look forward to shaving because of these two reasons but particularly because they enjoy the process of getting better and better as time goes on."I have to say that I now agree with him. Go to The Personal Barber for more information. For 20% discount for life, quote code SMOOTHSHAVE4LIFE20.
