Learning to Shave: A Teenage Rite of Passage
Learning to shave is a significant rite of passage for teenage boys. As a single adoptive mother, where could I turn to make sure my son wasn’t deprived of properly learning this essential grooming ritual? I wanted him to have a pleasant, mindful & soothing experience with close shave that was safe, successful, and gave him confidence.
First thing’s first, I made sure to gather the right tools. I didn’t want to spend an arm and a leg, but I wanted quality gear for a successful shaving experience, so I turned to westcoastshaving.com and checked out their namesake line of products, which were luxurious without breaking the bank. I opted for their Best-Selling Blade Starter Pack, which includes all the essentials, plus a variety of blades so that he can find his favorite.
• Safety Razor: A double-edged safety razor, absolutely a good idea for teens and beginners because it precision while minimizing the risk of cuts.
• Shaving Brush: A badger or synthetic bristle brush is ideal for generating a good lather. This kit included a Badger Silver Tip brush, which was soft and durable, excellent for both soaps and creams.
• Shaving Cream or Soap: Choose a quality cream or soap specifically made for wet shaving. Avoid canned foams from the drugstore! His first shave included the West Coast Shaving Fougere Duck Fat Shaving Soap, which gave off “deep forest” vibes and nicely conditioned his skin. He can’t wait to try more scents!
• Razor Blades: Always use sharp, fresh blades, as dull blades can lead to irritation and nicks. This kit came with 5 different barber-quality blades, and he settled on using Derby first (he listened to my recommendation, can you believe it?).
• Aftershave Balm or Lotion: Best to use an alcohol-free balm to soothe and moisturize the skin. I love products that include witch hazel because of its natural astringent and soothing properties. He used the West Coast Shaving Fougere Aftershave, to compliment the scent of the shave soap.
Proper preparation of the skin is crucial to achieving a smooth, irritation-free shave. I arranged for a close family friend to guide my son in front of a mirror.
• Warm Water Rinse: rinse with warm water to open pores and soften facial hair. This makes the shave easier and reduces the risk of razor burn.
• Lather Up: Run the shaving brush under warm water, then swirl it in a shaving bowl or directly on the soap. Then, work it in circular motions over the face, applying the lather evenly across the area to be shaved. This cushions the skin & lifts the hairs.
• Technique: here’s the reason I needed the help of a real human with experience, because the proper technique takes patience and practice.
o Razor Angle- hold the razor at a 30-degree, to avoid nicking the skin
o Short, Gentle Stokes- focus on precision, letting the weight of the razor do the work. It is important not to rush.
o Direction of the Grain shave with the grain, meaning in the direction of hair growth, then a second pass can be done across the grain. Shaving against the grain can cause irritation or razor bumps, so it’s best avoided by beginners.
For a closer shave, your can re-lather and do another pass, but make sure to apply a new layer of shaving cream/soap. It’s important to stick to gentle strokes and avoid areas that feel sensitive or show signs of irritation.
Proper aftercare is as important as the shave itself, for both your skin as well as your gear:
• Rinse with Cool Water: to close the pores and calm the skin.
• Pat Dry (Don’t Rub): Use a clean towel and gently pat the face.
•Apply Aftershave Balm or Lotion: To soothe the skin avoid products with alcohol.
• Clean & Dry Your Tools: Rinse the razor thoroughly to remove residue, and disassemble it if possible to dry each part. Likewise, rinse the brush and let it air dry with the bristles facing down to prevent moisture build-up. Proper maintenance will extend the life of the tools, ensuring a hygienic shave every time.
More Quick tips for Beginners:
• Start with the Basics: focus on shaving easier areas like the cheeks before moving to trickier parts like the chin and neck.
• Don’t Aim for Perfection: Nicks and cuts happen. Have a styptic pencil or alum block on hand to stop minor bleeding.
• Listen to Feedback: Was the blade too aggressive? Try another brand. Did the skin feel dry afterward? Try another soap or aftershave.
Sure, the first few shaves might feel awkward, that’s normal. Mastering the art of wet shaving takes time and practice. Develop a routine, maybe once a week to start, but remember that patience is a virtue. Most importantly, wet shaving is not just about removing hair; it is a self-care ritual that should be relished. Embrace the journey!