
10 NOVEMBER 2015
SARTORIAL

5 Quick Steps to the Perfect Wet Shave
Words - Mancave London
Pictures - Captioned below

Gents, the key to feeling energized is making sure you take a precious moment in the morning to indulge in a wet shave. Take pleasure in this traditional method of shaving, and let us, Mancave London, help you optimize this experience with 5 quick steps to conducting the perfect wet shave, leaving you feeling sharp and dapper.
GATHERING THE ARMORY
Lets start with the basics, the tools. Gathering the right tools to create your shaving armory is the first step. A good quality razor is key. That and the ability to easily replace your razor heads on a regular basis. Top-notch razors sometimes come with their own specially designed razor heads, however, we recommended you buy one that is compatible with more generic razor heads, available in high street stores. Not only will it save you a fortune but it also means you don’t have to make a special trip out. Next, is the brush. The best of the best is the badger hair brush; it's fibrous natural bristles hold significantly more water than their synthetic equivalent, meaning you can create a cracking lather and keep your skin well lubricated.

THE SECRET IS SHOWERING
As a general rule, try to shave after a hot shower. A good shave equates to 90% preparation, 10% actual shave. Make sure to massage the areas you are going to shave as you apply your face-wash to get the blood to your skin. The combination of this, and the hot water/steam will help soften your facial hairs and open your pores.
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE LATHER
Apply some shaving cream to the brush, dampen with some warm water and work up a thick, meringue-like lather. Be rather vigorous, using circular motions and going against the grain. A good badger hair shaving brush will get underneath the beard, allowing the lather to make contact with the surface of your face.

READY TO SHAVE
Our personal choice of razor is Truefitt’s "Wellington" style razor with Mach III head, making replenishment easy. Follow through with your regular 'facial expression war' with yourself in the mirror and go with the grain to avoid irritation. Top tip: make sure your razor is clean! It’s crucial to clean that bad boy, (give it a swirl), between every stroke.
THE FINISHING TOUCH
Once you’re satisfied with the shave, apply a cold damp towel to your face to close the pores and remove any remaining lather. Your skin may feel a little sensitive, so use a post shave moisturizer to lock in all your skins goodness and make sure your skin is smooth. Finally, spritz your favourite aftershave, to stay smelling dapper all day long.
Mancave London's Recommendations
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Razor- Truefitt & Hill Wellington Mach III compatible
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Shaving Brush- Truefitt & Hill Badger Brush
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Shaving Cream- Musgo Real, Lime Basil Shaving Cream
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Moisturizer- Hunter Lab Daily Face Fuel
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Aftershave- Portland England Active Aftershave