Wetshaving is also commonly known as traditional shaving. When you think of traditional shaving you think of your grandpa and a double edge safety razor. However, technically, that’s not what wet shaving is all about. Yes, traditional shaving involves using a safety razor, but it’s more than just that. It’s rather about a process and taking time appreciating and respecting one’s body. So in short, wet shaving is a process utilizing the right products and methodology, that allows you to get a better shave, one free from razor burn and skin irritation.
Wet shaving has been making a tremendous comeback over the past five years. If you don’t believe me, I would highly encourage you to check out the community growth behind the popular Reddit community, Wicked Edge. A community with over 120,000 strong that are dedicated to getting a better shave through the wet shaving methodology.
The reason there has been so much growth in this market and community is because men are simply fed up with what they have been dealing with for decades. Men have suffered long enough dealing with both the hefty financial price of shaving, but also the experience. We have come to learn that we can’t keep doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results. We have to be willing to try new things, even if that means going back to the way we used to shave.
It appears that going back has tremendously relieved hundreds of thousands of men around the world. There are some places in the world where men don’t have access to cartridge razors.
Benefits Of Wet Shaving
For individuals who suffer from sensitive skin, the biggest benefit of wet shaving is you get the closest shave possible while removing razor burn. Adding heat to the mixture with your shaving brush allows for your pores to remain open and prepare the skin for the shave. Proper lubrication from the pre-shave oil and or shaving cream, allows your skin to be moisturized, and protected, allowing your razor to glide with ease.
The next biggest benefit of traditional wet shaving is the cost compared to cartridge razors over the long term. Traditional shaving can require a heavier investment upfront in the form of pre-shave oil, creams/soaps, shaving brush, safety razor and blades. Double Edge Safety Razor blades cost pennies compared to that of cartridge razor systems. An individual can save thousands of dollars over their lifetime shaving with a double edge compared to that of a cartridge razor.
The biggest downside to wet-shaving is the learning curve involved. When you are first starting, you need to learn how to properly angle the razor blade. This does take a little bit of time to master, and causes your shaving time to slightly increase. However, that is a skill you can develop over time and master to the point where it takes you the same amount of time to shave with a double edge than that of a cartridge razor.
Products You Need To Start Wet Shaving Wet Shave
To get started with wet shaving you essentially need only three core items. You need a shaving cream/soap, a double edge safety razor and a shaving brush.
Other additional items that some like to purchase include a shaving bowl, a pre-shave oil, and a stand. Though these items are not necessary, they can make your shaving setup more aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable.
The reason why we classify pre-shave oil as an additional item is because its not necessary to start seeing the benefits of wet-shaving. Pre-shave oil helps add an extra layer of protection to the skin and helps moisturize it a bit more. Therefore, though pre-shave oil can make a difference in the quality of shave you receive, however, it is not 100% necessary.
Will you make the switch?
Now that you know about traditional wet shaving and what everyone has been talking about, the question now becomes will you make the switch?
If you are uncertain, that is completely okay.
I would highly encourage you to subscribe to our blog and check out the Wicked Edge community for more information on other peoples journey. In combination, the content and information provided will help provide sufficient information on whether or not you want to start wet shaving.