At Uomo Modern Barber, we get asked all the time about men’s grooming products. One big question that arises is: what are the benefits of using a shaving brush for shaving preparation. Here is a quick rundown.
1. A shaving brush exfoliates the skin.
a. Imagine a hair follicle. Around the base of each hair follicle are layers of skin. The outermost layer is often a stratum of dead or nearly dead skin cells. If our goal is to have a close shave, then these layers can get in the way. When we use a brush to lather in swirling motions, this acts to remove and slough off these cells. This makes for a closer, more comfortable shave.
2. A shaving brush raises the hair upright.
a. Have you ever tried to mow a wet lawn? It usually doesn’t turn out very well. Why? Because the blades of grass are lying flat to the ground. It makes it hard for the lawnmower to catch the blades. In contrast, when you mow a dry lawn, it is much easier. This is because the grass is standing straight up. The same goes for shaving. When we apply a shaving foam or gel with our fingers, the beard is flattened close to the skin making it harder to cut. Using a shaving brush lifts the hairs upright, making them much easier to shave.
3. A shaving brush moisturizes and softens the beard.
a. When coupled with a moisture dense shaving cream, such as the OM lye-free shaving cream, the moisturizing agents are worked into the beard much more effectively. This in turn softens the beard. Boom! Shaving is easier and more comfortable.
4. A shaving brush moisturizes the skin
a. Another benefit is that a good badger brush can help to moisturize the skin when coupled with a pre-shave conditioner. This makes the skin more elastic and flexible. If you can imagine the shingles of a roof. Under dry circumstances, the shingles are brittle and crack. The same goes for your skin. With good shaving preparation, the skin cells are ‘hyper-hydrated’, making shaving much more enjoyable.
5. A shaving brush saves you money
a. When we look at the cost of most shaving brushes, the price range for a good badger brush can start as low as 30$ and go up to 1500$. Now, I am not suggesting you go for the 1500$ brush, unless you are a man of formidable taste. What I am suggesting is that when you purchase a brush, it is an investment in yourself. Most brushes over the 30$ price tag will last at least 10 years. Most last much longer. Some will last a lifetime. Not only will this investment make your shaving ritual more comfortable, but it will also save you money on shaving blade costs. When your beard is properly prepared for shaving, your beard is softer. This causes less damage to your shaving blades. And guess what? Your blades last longer and you spend less on blades over time. It’s that simple.
In the end, it is up to every man to decide what is best for them. I recommend a good badger shaving brush if you are looking for a better, more comfortable shave.
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