Before the era of disposable razors and electric shavers, it was common for men to enjoy a shave with a straight razor at a barbershop. In fact, the word “barber” comes from the Latin word for beard, barba, because barbers were once just as associated with shaving and beard trims as they were with cutting hair. Today the “old-fashioned” straight razor wet shave is making a comeback as a luxury service in barbershops. Let’s learn more about straight razor shaving and how to become a barber at Health and Style Institute.

How to Perform a Straight Razor Shave

You may need to experiment to find the right tools, such as brushes, aftershave, and creams, for your own shaving kit or barbershop. Here’s the basic process for performing a straight razor shave safely and correctly:

1. Use hot water to open the pores and facilitate a smooth glide across the skin. This also softens the hairs on the cheeks and neck.
2. Prepare the skin with pre-shave oil, which further helps to let the blade slide quickly over the skin.
3. Apply shaving cream against the grain of facial hair to lift the hair away from the skin. Only use high-quality shaving cream to avoid razor burn and skin irritation.
4. Sharpen the straight razor before every use. This will help you avoid nicking the skin or missing stubborn whiskers.
5. Shave the skin gently, as repeatedly injuring the same spot can lead to ingrown hairs and other issues.
6. Hydrate the skin after shaving with a moisturizing lotion.
7. Clean and maintain your straight razor before and after each use.

Why Straight Razor Shaves Have Made a Comeback

A straight razor shave can leave skin feeling soft and sleek and provide a closer shave than electric and disposable “safety” razors. That’s because the single blade creates less friction against your skin. People also love straight razor shaves because they irritate the skin less than other techniques, resulting in a comfortable, cleaner look.

Another advantage is that straight razors are more efficient than other shaving techniques, so you can get customers in and out of the barber chair faster. If you love eco-friendly business practices, consider this. Straight razors are reusable and last for years, whereas disposable and electric razors wind up in the landfill much more quickly.

Become a Barber With Health and Style Institute

Are you ready to get your razors wet and provide the close shave many clients crave? The barber program at Health and Style Institute can help you master straight razor shaving and other techniques. Contact us today to find out more about enrolling.