Contest and Advice from the Shaving Shack
Nick from The Shaving Shack has generously offered to not only write a few words of wisdom regarding shaving, but also give away a Kent BK4 Silver Tip Badger Shaving Brush, valued at over $65, to one of our readers. Being the wet-shaving enthusiast I am, I couldn’t resist. More contest details at the bottom of the post.
Debunking five common wet shaving myths
When it comes to men’s shaving there are many myths and misconceptions out there about what you should or shouldn’t be doing. In this article we will take a look at five different areas that blokes can get hung up about when trying to find the best way to shave and offer a few tips on each point.
Do you need to use a lot of foam when shaving?
This question is asked a lot by men who think that by using more foam, they will benefit from a smoother shave. Well, the truth is, you don’t. All that using more foam does is to add more product to the skin and thus get in the way of the razor. The razor’s job is to perform through touching the skin and excess foam just hinders this. Also, by using products without alcohol or harsh ingredients, it will reduce the chances of you getting any nicks or cuts to the face.
Is it always necessary to shave downwards, or ‘go with the grain’?
Again, the answer to this is no. It is ok to go against the grain and the direction of growth. This may be easier for those with thicker beards and skin that isn’t as sensitive, but can still be achieved by anybody for the best possible shave.
Should I use the same brand for all my shaving products?
No, there is no rule about sticking to one particular brand. In fact, it is more interesting to create a cocktail of products through trying out different ones from each brand. As long as the product is quality, then you should have no problems mixing and matching.
Should I use soap on my face before shaving?
The problem with soap is that it dries the face and strips away the moisture content. It is still worth washing the facial area prior to shaving, although it is recommended you try using a cleanser instead.
Do you need to use hot or cold water when shaving?
It is always recommended that you have a shave immediately after taking a hot shower. This is because the steam and heat opens up the pores and softens the beard. When you have finished shaving you can then use cold or cooler water to close the pores again and shut everything back down, leaving you with a cool face.
These wet shaving tips were kindly provided by the Shaving Shack, a retailer on luxury men’s shaving accessories, including razors, brushes and shaving creams.
OK, so you want to win the Kent Shaving Brush? Because we’re thinking of running this contest again in the future, all you have to do is go to the Shaving Shack Website, find a product you’d like to see us give away next month, and post it in the comments here at the bottom of this page. The contest is open to all ages, locations, etc., and ends June 1. One entry per person. June 1: Contest is now CLOSED.
Awesome giveaway. My vote is for the Merkur 34C Heavy Duty Classic.
Contemporary Mach 3 Shaving Set
I have to say that after browsing the site the Merkur Slant takes the cake, as I have wanted one for some time. Great contest… my fingers are crossed!
Very cool contest! My vote would be for a Merkur 38C Barberpole.
Nothing fancy here. A tub of T&H 1805 shave cream.
Great products and awesome contest! I’m just beginning my wet shaving adventure, and am learning my way around the products available. I’d love to see a set of all 4 scents of Vulfix shaving cream offered. Thanks!
Dovo Stainless Steel 5/8 open razor
A combo of T&H preshave oil and 1805 shaving cream. Great contest, btw.
Any brush. My nice brushes are restorations. I’d love to try a brand name one to compare.
I’d go in for a Merkur 34C Heavy Duty Classic as well.
Nice giveaway! Now…my vote is: Muhle Leather Case For Safety Razor
Thanks!
Great offer. My vote is “Taylor Of Old Bond St Lavender Soap and Bowl”
I have never seen the Proraso shave cut healing gel before. Cool new product only found here.
I vote for the Taylor of Old Bond St Rose Shaving Cream
How about some D.R. Harris shave cream (Arlington or Marlborough)?
MWF shaving soap in the ceramic bowl.
Sweet giveaway!
For next month how about the Merkur 39C Slant Bar Long Handled Razor.
Mach 3 shaving set. Thanks for the contest too!
Bring on the MWF!
complete with the complete with the
Ceramic bowl! Sorry about the double post….stupid phone!
A kit from a classic brand–shave cream, splash, and balm from Speick, Musgo, Proraso, etc.
Musgo Real Aftershave Splash. Thanks!
I’d have to say, the Shaving Shack 30 Day Grooming Pack sounds like it would be a classy giveaway, and a good chance to try out all of your products!
I agree with the Merkur 34C – a razor every wet shaver should have.
Nice Giveaway!!!
If it’s a “the sky’s the limit give away”, I’d vote for a Dovo Straight Razor. I know I’d love to move into str8ts and my understanding is you want a quality one. If I had one of these, I know I’d go ahead and buy the rest of the accesories (Hone, strop, etc.) to go with it. The price of a nice str8t though is what stops many from taking that step. Oh, and the fear of their own blood!
On a more conservative note and applicable to more people, either a Merkur 38C or Muhle 89R would be my recommendation for a giveaway!
I’d want a soap or two (or three). Maybe some Mitchell’s Wool Fat or DR Harris.
Nice! I’d like the Kent BK4
It’s always nice to see some more information on wet shaving. Once you have shaved with a DE blade or straight you will never go back! Anyways, I think the giveaway for next month should be Mitchell’s Wool Fat Shaving Soap and Ceramic Bowl. Thanks
I’ld go for Mitchell’s Wool Fat Shaving Soap and Ceramic Bowl (120g)
You should give away the Taylor of Old Bond Street sandalwood soap that comes in the nice wooden bowl. Great contest, thanks.
Sorry for not quite following the rules, but I think a small travel set would be a good idea. So for instance a shave stick, the blade holder tin, some blades, a small AS or balm, and a small facewash or something along those lines. Or if you’re really feeling generous say include a DE or travel DE or travel brush or something. I think that would get some good responses.
I fancey the Dovo of Solingen Brushed Steel Razor and Brush Stand.
The EXS Extra Large Condoms get honorable mention.
Great giveaway! My vote is for an Edwin Jagger DE89L.
Thanks for those tips, ive always wondered about a couple myself.
As for what you should give away. I would suggest a set of shaving products, not equipment. So a preshave, cream/soap, and aftershave. I think that would be a great idea.
Thanks a lot
This is a wonderful contest, and your website is terrific. For your next giveaway I would go for a jar of Proraso Pre and Post Shave Cream for Ultra Senisitive Skin. Along with Mitchell’s Wool Fat Shaving Soap and Ceramic Bowl.
My vote is for a Dovo 5/8 Open Razor
[...] over $65) to Aspiring Gentleman readers. All you have to do is comment on the post (link below). AspiringGentleman.com Shaving Brush Giveaway Good luck and pleasant shaving! __________________ Web: http://www.AspiringGentleman.com Twitter: [...]
Very nice article and site!! I appreciate the wonderful tips!!
and…you should give away the Parker 98
A Great giveaway! I vote for something to go with this give-away! How about Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood shaving cream!
Definitely the Merkur 38C Barberpole
Its all about the Merkur 34c
I think you should give away the Mitchell’s Wool Fat soap in the Ceramic Bowl! Thanks for the chance to win!
Dovo Imitation Tortoiseshell 5/8 Open Razor
Hard to find a modern straight razor as nice as this one!
I vote for a dovo straight and some dove shave cream!
Seeign as I have a new interest in straight razor shaving, what I like most is the Dovo Imitation Mother of Pearl 5/8 Open Razor.
Cool article, I wish I used awesome shaving equipment, instead of the cheap mach 3s or whatever other brand I randomly pick up. My vote is for the Merkur 42 Nickel “1904 Replica”…looks awesome and sweet that it is based on the original Gillette.
I think that the Contemporary Mach 3 Shaving Set (Silver and Chrome Effect) would be a cool giveaway.
I like the Contemporary Mach 3 Shaving Set (Silver and Chrome Effect)
Taylor Of Old Bond St Lavender Soap and Bowl
My vote is for the Truefitt & Hill Luxury Pre Shave Oil .
I think the Merkur Slant razor would be awesome for a giveaway!
I would like to see a nice travel bag etc that’s not too expensive.
Fat tip open comb razor.
Great article!
I vote for: Merkur 39c (barberpole slant bar)
Awesome giveaway. I find recently I’ve been leaning towards face-lathering, and thinking I need a slimmer option than my Georgetown scuttle.
Therefore, my choice is the black Muhle apothecary mug.
Great stuff! I think that it is always MWF time!
I love the contest! I keep seeing the almost cult-following for Mitchell’s Wool Fat. That would be a great contest gift in the Old School ceramic bowl. It might just be enough to get me to try a soap!
I vote for the pre and post shaving cream for sensitive skin, my son’s skin would love this
I would like to win the Merkur Slant razor
I’d like to see a nice soap/bowl set given away next month. Something along the lines of MWF, TOBS, or GFT! Great contest idea!
I like the Merkur 42 Nickel “1904 Replica”
great contest
I second the vote for a Merkur slant, such as the 39c.
I think a Merkur 34C would be perfect.
I would like to see the Muhle Traditional Shaving Mug in White Porcelain given away!
I’d like to see a true DOP kit giveaway. Every man needs one!
Definitely the MWF. I love that soap.
Merkur Futur 760 Safety Razor with Satin Chrome Finish
I would like a Parker 98R Heavy Duty Premium Barberpole
I’d love a chance to win the T&H 1805 shaving cream bowl.
thanks!
I like keeping my face wet when I apply the soap/cream.
My vote is for Truefitt & Hill Luxury Pre-Shave Oil. It’s an item that a lot of people don’t use, but I personally love it and think more people would be converted to users if they could try it for free.
My vote is for: Merkur 570 Chrome “Progress” Safety Razor
The Muhle R41 is something I’ve heard a lot of great comments about. That would be a great prize, indeed!
What a fun way to shop!
I will break with the DE preponderance here and suggest the Dual Leather Hand Strop.
Thanks for the contest.
JR
I very much like the Mach 3 shaving set in aluminium (Brit spelling, oi!). Modern yet… classic!
My Pa set me up with shaving mug and badger brush as a mere lad (well before I really needed it) but, alas, it (and he) are long gone… I have long searched for the “perfect” shave — is it time to return to the knowledge of my forefathers?
I’ve got all kinds of hardware so I’m exploring the software a selection of the Cyril Salter shaving soaps would be cool I’d especially like to try the wild rose
Would love to try Muhle R89.
So that even when traveling (light) you can get a decent shave – the Merkur Travel Razor 933CL.
I’m voting for the Musgo Real No3 Spiced Citrus. I love citrus scents.
i hear good things about kent brushes. and i would like to buy at some point Proraso Pre and Post Shave Cream for Ultra Sensitive Skin. your about the only one who carries it.
I think the Taylor’s Sandalwood Soap in the bowl would be a great giveaway!
Thanks for the contest!
My GF loves sweets, so I would like to see you giveaway a pack of 62 EXS Chocolate Condoms
I would like to see a review of and giveaway of Truefitt & Hill 1805 Shaving Cream !!
A great contest. As others have said I would love to try Mitchell’s Wool Fat. Gets a great review but have yet to give it a shot.
Alum block. I don’t know how easy they are to find on your side of the pond, but on this side they are damn tricky.
Nice article. Truth is I’ve never actually tried a “high end” brush, so the BK4 would do me just fine
Would like the Dovo of Solingen Brushed Steel Razor and Brush Stand.
Thanks for the giveaway and future contests!
How about the “Mach 3 Shaving Set with Bowl (Black)” to help get someone started off in style?
I’d love to see the Dovo Imitation Tortoiseshell 5/8 Open Razor offered, since winning one is the only way I’d be able to get one in the house past my special lady friend
http://www.shaving-shack.com/dovo-imitation-tortoiseshell-5-8-open-razor.html
Contemporary Mach 3 Shaving Set (Silver and Chrome Effect) – such a great idea!
I would love to see the Muhle Traditional Shaving Mug in White Porcelain.
Thanks
Merkur Futur 760 Safety Razor with Satin Chrome Finish
I think the Merkur Slant razor would be awesome for a great giveaway!
As an exercise in pure wish fulfillment, I have to say the DOVO stainless 5/8 straight is a lovely looking piece of work.
Otherwise, the MWF!
I would like to see an alum block since those are always oh so nice.
I’de like to vote for the Shaving Shack 30 day grooming pack!
some good information! How about giving away a Shavette to help start some fellas using straight razors.
I would like a travel brush and travel Razor. I think that would be a great give-a-way for a man on the go! Thanks for such a cool-website!!
Nice Article and useful tips, although I do also enjoy shaving with cool water at night instead immediately after a shower.
As for a giveaway, I assume the purpose would be to drive traffic, interest, and ultimately business, so it may be best to choose products with the widest possible appeal.
Some enjoy wet-shaving with cartridge razors, so I would eliminate safety razors as a giveaway. Also, some have aversion to certain scents or reactions to certain products, so I would probably choose the most neutral products possible. Also, creams tend to be easier for people than soaps.
All that said, my recommendations for nice products that would be wanted by all and would almost guarantee a positive experience would be:
- Jermyn Street Shave Cream for Sensitive Skin
- TOBS Synthetic Brush
I would love a Muhle Ceramic bowl to replace the Edwin Jagger one I broke last month when I dropped my brush on it. That sure would be nice…
The Simpsons Duke Best Badger Brush would be another great brush to have as a give away.
Gotta be the Parker 31R Stainless Steel All Metal Shavette. That looked awesome. Great site.
MWF in the ceramic dish would be a wonderful giveaway!
My vote goes to DR Harris Arlington Shaving Cream. In my opinion the best on the market.
Nice information! I’d go also in the pure wish department the Dovo Imitation Mother of Pearl 5/8 Open Razor, http://www.shaving-shack.com/dovo-imitation-mother-of_pearl-5-8-open-razor.html, if it was absolutely no question, but on the other end of the scale I would say the Cyril Salter Wild Rose shaving cream, http://www.shaving-shack.com/cyril-salter-luxury-shaving-cream-wild-rose-165g.html.
Good article with good tips, plus a great site over there. I would think for a future giveaway some kind of “set” would be good like a Musgo day (pre-shave oil, cream & ASB), or a Tabac day (soap & ASB), or a Treufitt & Hill set with the pre-shave oil and the 1805 cream (My vote!!).
I think DR Harris Lavender is a great English soap. It would make a fantastic give away. Excellent site.
My vote is for the open razor starter kit. It has everything I need to cut…er…shave. I had one a long time ago, but didn’t know how to sharpen one, or really shave with one and no one to teach me. It would be cool to learn and pass it down to my son.
What would i like to see as a give-away…? In an ideal world, perhaps one of the DE Razors, such as the Merkur Progress, which may encourage others to start up this wet shaving “hobby”. That or a Straight razor! In fact there is so much there that would be a nice to recieve
Cheers,
Tony.
Dovo Bismarck 6/8 would be something nice. I did not select it for the price but because it looks beautiful and I would love to be able to shave with something like that.
Thank you for the article, and for the contest! I think a razor would be awesome for the next giveaway; maybe the classic Merkur HD (an item that would probably be agreeable to most wet shavers) or perhaps even something bolder and more iconic, like the Merkur Futur?
Cheers!
Great to find this informative site.
I think a great giveaway item would be the choice of any Dr. Harris shaving soap in a bowl. It’s a great line of soap, and a choice of scent would certainly have wide appeal.
Best,
Tom
30 Feather Hi-Stainless Double Edged Razor Blades would be a great giveaway. A lot of folks are after that perfect shave and the only thing missing is a sharp blade.
Regards,
Brian
Well…lets think and dream big….Simpsons Chubby 2 !!!!
I’m a big fan of T&H products, so a set comprising of pre-shave oil, cream, soap, and ASB would be a great giveaway set (although I didn’t see T&H ASB listed on the site.
Love the website and since this month’s giveaway is the beautiful Kent BK4 Silver Tip Badger Shaving Brush, valued at over $65, it would only make sense for next month to giveaway the DR Harris Arlington Shaving Cream.
Well…lets think and dream big….Simpsons Chubby 2 !!!!
my vote would be the Parker 31R Stainless Steel All Metal Shavette. Great website guys!
Nice website and great competition. I would love to see a Truefitt & Hill 1805 Shaving Cream giveaway
I’d love to see a Dovo of Solingen Brushed Steel Razor and Brush Stand put up! Maybe a little rich, but nice.
My vote is for the Merkur 39C Slant Bar!
Having three children (aged 18 to 21) whom I would like to introduce to wet shaving, I would like to see a good DE starting kit giveaway. An Edwin Jagger medium best badger brush, EJ DE89L razor, a pack of Iridium blades and a Tabac shave stick would cost in the neighborhood of the Kent brush and would be an excellent starting kit for the beginning wet-shaver.
I’d suggest the Parker 82R Super HeavyWeight Butterfly Open Safety Razor
http://www.shaving-shack.com/merkur-futur-761-safety-razor-with-chrome-finish.html
I think that getting someone started on the right foot is always appreciated!
It’s great to have a nice razor, brush and accessories but most guys lack the proper stand.
Luckily for most men their wives like the look of an old fashioned blade and brush as it gives off a ‘manly’ look. We should all be taking advantage of this and show off our manliness for all to see.
All that being said I would recommend the Dovo of Solingen Brushed Steel Razor and Brush Stand. Cheers.
I think a great, simple, giveaway item would be a shaving brush travel tube. It’s simple and inexpensive, but I think everyone could benefit from having one.
I’d have to vote on a basic set of products that would appeal to both a beginner or seasoned shaver. Perhaps an Omega Pro 48 brush, MWF in the ceramic bowl, and Classic Scent Musgo Real Splash. Those three products give a great shaving experience for such a modest investment…come to think of it, after using those products, you might consider tossing in a pack of Pasante Naturelles.
Very nice site. I’d like a very nice lidded shaviing soap cup/bowl.
In my opinion a DR Harris Arlington Shaving Cream would be a perfect giveaway after this beautiful Kent BK4
Compliments for this Very nice website
My vote goes to the Merkur 34C Heavy Duty Classic!
I’m going to copy someone’s previous suggestion but only because I’ve been wanting one too. The Merkur 39c HD Long Handled Slant razor.
Also, very generous give away!!!
I think a razor giveaway is a good idea. I think giving away a vintage Gillette would be ideal. If not possible, the Merkur 34C HD is probably the best modern comparison.
Nice site!
Ben
I’d like to see the Muhle Leather case for Safety Razor as next month’s giveaway.
I think another good brush would be great. Especially for those of us like me who are just considering getting into wet shaving.
Some nice shave soap would be cool, like Dr. Harris Almond, in a beech bowl.
Informative post. Kudos on your generosity. I would suggest this for the giveaway: http://www.shaving-shack.com/dovo-leather-and-canvas-razor-strop.html. I think this strop is top notch and would love to have one.
if possible, a r&b stand
The Merkur 39C Slant Bar is the one for me!
I’d like to see you put the TOBS 2-piece gift set up next time. Thanks!!
Great article, and great attention-getting event!
The Proraso Pre and Post Shave Cream is a wonderful product that not many will be familiar with, and because it’s relatively inexpensive compared to other products, you could give away several so more could benefit from the give-away.
Thanks
The Muhle R89 would be a great prize for the next giveaway. It has really gained in popularity of late, and would be great for a beginner or seasoned wet shaver.
I do believe that the Cuthroat/Open Razor Starter Kit
would be a great prize.
I would like to see you guys offer the Parker 98R Heavy Duty. NIce website!
I’d love to see the wool fat soap and bowl offered up. Cheers!
I would like to see the contemporary mach 3 shaving set issued as the next prize.
I would like the Taylor Of Old Bond St Two Piece Gift Set ( cream + Brush).
Andres
mach 3 shaving set.
Mach 3 Shaving Set
And the winner is….
David R. (Comment on 15 May 2010 at 2:31 pm)
You have email!
Thanks to all for entering. Keep your eye out for more contests in the future.
Nice blog! My vote is for the D.R. Harris Marlborough shave soap in the beech bowl.
Congrats to the winner….very nice prize! Looking forward to the next contest….anytime soon?
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