Lots of classics are coming back. Classic drinks (the Moscow Mule), classic dress (the bowtie), and now the classic shave.
The word “classic” comes from the French word “classique,” and from the Latin word “classicus,” generally referring to those things that possess a timeless quality and are “of the highest class.” I wonder if Spartacus, Leonidas, or Marcus Aurelius enjoyed a shavis classicus?
In modern times, we often pay homage to classics. We learn from them as foundations, and often weave into our daily life those aspects that still ring true. Whether it’s classic literature, classic architecture, classic warfare, classic rock, classic dress or a classic shave, the best modern man is one that has a good grasp on the classic practices before his day.
For the last few years, more and more men are returning to the classic shave. It’s the routine your father or grandfather probably followed, as well as original businessmen, railroad men, soldiers, pilots, John F. Kennedy and Teddy Roosevelt, Clint Eastwood and Sean Connery. It’s most likely the best shave we’ve discovered, despite silly and rather wimpy modern advances that try to outdo each other. The benefits are fivefold: products that are better for your skin; a relaxing, contemplative process instead of an annoying task; considerable financial savings; a huge reduction in plastic waste; and perhaps best of all, a masculine array of tools and techniques that resemble the art of smoking good cigars, drinking fine spirits, or restoring a 57 Chevy.
Primitive men used shark’s teeth and clamshells to depilate themselves. You don’t have to go that far back. Of course “classic” is about what works best overall, not necessarily the oldest or the latest, nor the quickest or the easiest. It’s impressive that the ancient Egyptians, along with strong skills in science, mathematics, and architecture, excelled in shaving. They introduced hot towels to soften skin and open pores pre-shave. Sound familiar?
Here are the slick basics of a classic shave, similar to your father or grandfather’s ritual --
Apply a hot towel or take a hot shower pre-shave. A room full of shower, steam and heat setup a satisfying spa-like shave.
Procure a shaving brush with natural bristles – badger bristles are the best. Use premium shaving cream or shaving soap with few to no chemicals, they smell great and improve the skin.
Work the cream into a thick lather with vigorous circles on your face. The bristles and motion hydrate the cream so as to form richer, fuller lather. The brush also helps get the cream up under each whisker for smoother, closer shaves. The circular movement even exfoliates your skin, making the whole process akin to a mini-facial.
For the shave itself, learn to use safety razors, which are far cheaper and even better than disposable razors (yes even the Mach 3 Turbo), though they take time to truly master. When you have mastered these, you’re ready to try the final step to the classic wet-shave, the straight razor. A quality straight razor, properly sharpened, stropped and oiled, will last you a lifetime.
A safety razor and especially a straight razor require patience, practice, and art. Proficiency and finesse with a straight razor is entering a rugged, distinguished community.
Cold water or cold towel feel great post-shave, and help close the pores. A quality aftershave reduces any irritation and gives the skin a strong glow. Again I stress getting natural, well-made products; most stuff in the supermarkets are brimming with chemicals that actually damage your face in the long run.
With a little research, I learned it doesn’t matter how many tiny blades disposable razors pack in, nor how many tiny aloe strips they have, nor how many small batteries they put in to make it vibrate. Nothing beats thorough preparation and learning to skillfully wield a solid, old-fashioned straight razor.
Looking way back, men have shaved for over five thousand years. In the 4th century BC, Alexander the Great strongly suggested shaving to avoid “dangerous beard-grabbing in combat.” He also thought it looked sharper. You’re unlikely to worry about dangerous beard-grabbing in combat, but his second point may still stand, as many women appreciate a smooth, great-smelling shave.
In today’s business we want to be our best. In our personal life we want to be our best. Classic shaving provides a relaxing yet robust ritual that sharpens you mentally. Its finesse improves your confidence while its functionality leaves you looking great. You can take this classic version of a manly practice and incorporate it wisely in your present life.
Be classicus.
These are highlights from a feature article I published in Cigar & Spirits Magazine.
Full article here: http://lasvegastoppicks.com/classic-shaving/