As a man, getting the perfect shave seems so cliché. But cliché as it may sound, getting a great shave has always been an important result for a man’s grooming routine. It is important to note that getting a great close shave requires a few things: using the right razor, using the right blade and having good technique. For the at home shaver, most men use cartridge razors, electric razors or a foil shaver because they are easy to use without cutting themselves. Men who want a quick shave resort to these kinds of razors. However, the shave is generally not as close as it could be. If you want a much closer shave and have a little more time to dedicate to shaving, it’s best to use a double edge razor. Or if you’re more adventurous, a straight razor is the best shave you can get. If you’re not ready for a straight razor, a double edge or safety razor would be the next level up. There are several convincing reasons why using a double edge razor can be more beneficial. Are you ready to become a wet shaver? Why You Should Switch to Double Edge Razors:  1)   You get a better value for your shaver. Double edge blades are very inexpensive and you also have two sides of the blade to shave with which means twice the shaving capacity per blade. Because double edge blades are only composed of a thin sheet of metal, they are easy to produce and package. Each blade is easily under $1 each. However, cartridge blades contain several blades and have a plastic housing that results in a higher cost. Often replacement cartridge blades are well over $2 each and can run as high as $5 per cartridge! 2)   You can often get more shaves out of a double edged blade. This is because double edge blades are sharper than cartridge blades. Since cartridge blades often contain anywhere from 2 to 7 blades in a cartridge, the blades don’t have to be as sharp because if one of the blades doesn’t cut the hair, the second, third or fourth blade will cut it. On the other hand, a single edge blade will be expected to cut off most hair in a single pass. Of course, the number of shaves you can get out of any blade also depends on the quality of the blade itself. Not all double edge blades or cartridge blades are made the same. For example, Feather Double Edge Blades have a reputation of having some of the sharpest blades around so you can generally get more shaves out of them than other brands. 3)   You’ll likely get less irritation. When you are shaving with a double edge blade, you’re shaving with a single blade. When multiple blades pass the skin multiple times, this creates irritation. Think about it. If 5 blades pass the skin 3 times, this is 15 blades going over the skin. On the other hand, if 1 blade passes the skin 3 times, this is 3 blades going over the skin. Less irritation means less redness, razor burn, razor bumps and better for sensitive skin. 4)   Cartridge blades often get clogged. When there are many blades close together, the hairs get stuck between the blades. Even after rinsing, sometimes the hair just doesn’t pass through. With a single safety razor blade, hair can pass right through after a rinse. Clogged hairs between blades is a big nuisance and can also affect your shaving quality. 5)   Safety razor blades are better for the environment. Since they are single sheets of metal they can decompose. Meanwhile, cartridge blades have plastic around them and plastic does not degrade easily. They sit in the landfills and end up in our oceans. If the environment means anything to you, this could be a very good reason to switch. Now that you know the benefits, let’s take a look at some other key differences… There is a difference in how cartridge razors are used versus double edge razors. Cartridge razors are designed to remove as much hair as possible at one time and a double edge razor works by gradually reducing hair with each pass. Another thing to note is that double edge razors have a higher learning curve than cartridge razors. You’ll definitely need some practice as there is a much greater risk of cutting yourself. However, once you get the hang of it, the results are worth it. When using a double edge razor be sure to replace the blade when they start to get dull to prevent any nicking or cutting. The number of times you might use a double edge razor blade depends on the quality of the blade and the technique. It may also help to designate a specific day of the week to change the blade. While double edge razors can help with skin irritation, there are other ways you can reduce these issues by simply taking care of your skin. If you are tired of razor burn, ingrown hairs, redness and bumps, it’s important that you pay extra attention to the quality of your skin. Sensitive skin can be more prone to razor burn so exfoliate and remove dead skin cells before you shave so you can achieve a clean shave every time.  This also helps to prevent ingrown hairs as exfoliating removes hardened proteins that block the hair follicle. How to shave with a double edge razor: 1)   To begin, prep the area you want to shave by wetting it with warm water. When it’s wet, this allows the hair to soften and swell making it easier to shave. A good time when this occurs is after a shower. Once the area is wet, apply shaving cream or use a shaving brush. Lather your face using a swirl motion to distribute the cream evenly. 2)   When shaving, shave in the direction of hair growth. Do not shave against the grain, especially on your first pass. Hair grows in various directions on different parts of the face and neck so pay attention to how your hair grows. With thicker hair, shorter strokes should be used. With more fine hair, strokes can be longer. Strokes should not be applied with pressure when using a double edge razor. 3)   Let the razor glide over the skin for best results at a thirty degree angle relative to the skin. A 30 degree angle is the optimal shaving angle. If you notice the blade is getting dull, rotate the handle and use the remaining side of the blade to shave. Shaving at the right angle can be achieved by using the right razor. Feather Double Edge Razors are designed to easily achieve this optimal angle. You can check them out here. 4)   When there is build-up in the razor, be sure to run it under a stream of water or fill a sink with hot water and rapidly move the razor back and forth to remove the hair from the blades. Repeat this process as necessary until your clean shave has been achieved. Your morning shave should take no more than 10 minutes. 5)   It’s important to note that to get the closest shave, it may be necessary to stretch the skin in the opposite direction of the razor’s path with the free hand so that the razor glides more easily. Stroke downward with the razor. Stretching the skin opens the hair follicle that exposes more of the hair shaft so it can be cut shorter. 6)   Post shave, rinse your skin with cold water to close the pores. Follow up with proper skin care products such as toner and a good moisturizer. And voila! You’ve completed your first traditional wet shave. Getting a great wet shave with a double edge razor is well worth it. It takes some practice and a little know how, but once you get the hang of it, you will love the outcomes and say good-bye to yesterday’s cartridge or electric shavers. To see the double edge razors we carry, click here. Product, Double Edge Razors

  One of the best parts of celebrating Earth Day this Thursday, April 22, is raising awareness of the many ways everyone can help the planet. This includes supporting green initiatives by using sustainable products, recycling services and eco-friendly beauty and wellness products. When focusing specifically on eco-friendly grooming, the topic of disposable razors inevitably comes up in the conversation. So just how bad is your disposable razor for the environment? Considering that billions of plastic razors and refill blade cartridges get tossed in landfills each year, the truthful answer is pretty bad. What makes disposable razors so environmentally unfriendly is largely the materials used in each razor. Typically made from different components in a variety of material such as plastic, rubber and metal, most municipal recycling programs in the U.S. will not accept disposable razors, making them hard to be recycled. A majority end up in landfills or contaminating our water systems. But there is a solution to the pollution: Double Edge Razors. For those looking for about an eco-friendlier shave, Double Edge Razors, or Safety Razors as they’re also referred to, are a great alternative to disposable ones. While the term may conjure images of your grandfather’s old razor, today’s Double Edge Razors are both modern and perfectly gender-neutral, as ideal for shaving a beard as for shaving legs. Crafted from stainless steel, Double Edge Razors handles, such as the Feather All Stainless Steel Double Edge Razor, are built to last a lifetime. In fact, many razor collectors purchase and use old Double Edge Razors from as far back as the early 1900s with no problems. These razor handles use all-steel replacement blades with no plastic. This means the only waste is the blades and some municipalities do recycle those. Should you ever need to replace or dispose of your razor handle, that too can be recycled. Due to their quality and sharpness, Double Edge Blades last longer than standard metal and plastic cartridge blades, meaning less waste. Feather’s Double Edge Blades are platinum coated which extends the life of the blade, preventing them from dulling as quickly as other blades might. The blades are also two-sided allowing for additional shaves with each blade. Depending on technique, hair density and thickness, and skin type, some users can get anywhere from three to seven shaves per Double Edge Blade. They can even save you money in the long term since Double Edge Blades are more affordable than cartridge replacements – not to mention more high performing by providing a closer shave. The refill blades, such as the Feather Hi-Stainless Double Edge Blades, are very inexpensive – as low as 50 cents each compared to $2+ each for the average modern cartridge. Economic and eco-friendly – a true win-win for your wallet and your carbon footprint. While one person switching from disposable razors to a Double Edge one may not seem like it will have a huge impact on the environment, it is important to remember that every person together adds up. When it comes to protecting Earth, it is a shift that can have an impact for generations to come. Product, Double Edge Razors

Shaving is a daily grooming routine for many individuals, but it can sometimes lead to unwanted consequences such as cuts, irritation, and razor burn. However, by following a few safe practices, you can minimize these issues and achieve a smooth and comfortable shave. Whether you regularly shave your face or your face or other bodily hair such as legs and armpits, these tips will help you achieve a clean shave while keeping your skin happy and healthy.   Step 1: Prepare Your Skin and Hair Before you start shaving, it’s important to prepare your skin and hair properly. Take a warm shower or wash your face and/or body part with warm water and non-drying soap to soften the hair. If you are shaving the face, use facial cleanser. This will make the shaving process smoother and reduce the chances of irritation. Avoid using hot water, as it can dry out your skin.   Step 2: Exfoliate Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and unclog hair follicles, leading to a closer shave and reducing the risk of ingrown hairs. Gently exfoliate your skin using a mild scrub or exfoliating glove before shaving. By eliminating dead skin cells you leave a clean canvas to work on, making it easier for the razor to shave over the skin.   Step 3: Apply Shaving Cream or Gel Using a good-quality shaving cream or gel helps lubricate the skin, allowing the razor to glide smoothly and minimizing friction. Look for products that are suitable for your skin type and free from harsh chemicals. Apply a generous amount to the area you’re shaving and leave it on for a minute or two to soften the hair further. While many shaving creams lather and form a white foam, it’s easier to see through a clear gel or cream. Seeing what you’re shaving can help prevent any unnecessary nicks or cuts. For example, if you have any bumps or areas of the skin that could be impacted by a razor blade, it’s best to shave around that area rather than over it. One shaving cream that is non-foaming is JATAI Shaving Cream.   Step 4: Use a Sharp Razor Blade A dull blade can cause more cuts and irritation, so it’s crucial to use a sharp blade. Replace your razor blades regularly, ideally after five to ten shaves or when you notice any signs of dullness. Consider using a high-quality double edge razor and blade (such as Feather) as they provide a closer shave than cartridge razors. However, if you must use a cartridge razor and blade, opt for the least amount of blades (no more than 3) to reduce irritation.   Step 5: Shave with the Grain Shaving against the grain may give a closer shave, but it increases the likelihood of cuts, razor burn, and ingrown hairs. Instead, shave with the grain (in the direction of hair growth) to reduce irritation. If you want an even closer shave, you can go across the grain after the first pass, but avoid going against it. Evaluate your hair growth patterns before you shave the area.   Step 6: Use Light Pressure Applying too much pressure while shaving can lead to nicks and cuts. Let the weight of the razor do the work and glide it gently across your skin. Avoid repetitive strokes on the same area, as it can cause irritation. Rinse the blade frequently to remove hair and shaving cream buildup.   Step 7: Rinse with Cold Water and Pat Dry Once you’ve finished shaving, rinse your skin with cold water to close the pores and soothe the skin. Cold water also helps reduce inflammation and any potential redness or irritation. After rinsing, pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, as it can further irritate the skin.   Step 8: Use an Alcohol Free Toner Toners help balance out the pH of the skin. Using a cotton pad soaked with toner, wipe the freshly shaved area. Alcohol-based toners and products can dry out the skin and cause stinging or irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. Opt for alcohol-free alternatives.   Step 9: Moisturize and use Sunblock Moisturize your skin to replenish moisture and provide a protective barrier. Choose a gentle, oil-free, comedogenic moisturizer to help prevent clogged pores and blackheads. Moisturizers are very important in skin care. They help reduce the progression of aging and give your skin life. If you are planning to go outside after shaving, be sure to use sunblock with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from sun damage.   Step 10: Clean and Store Your Razor Properly After each use, rinse your razor thoroughly to remove any hair, shaving cream, or debris. Keep your razor dry and store it in a dry place to prevent bacterial growth and maintain the sharpness of the blades. Replace the blade when it gets dull. By incorporating these safe practices into your shaving routine, you can minimize the risk of cuts, irritation, and razor burn, and achieve a smooth and comfortable shave. Remember to listen to your skin and adjust your routine as needed. If you experience persistent skin issues or have any concerns, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice. Health and Wellness

    When it comes to skincare, the beauty industry has traditionally focused on women. However, in recent years, there has been a growing awareness among men that taking care of their skin is just as important. Skincare isn’t about being vain or feminine – it’s about looking after your body and your health. Why is skincare for men important? By taking care of your skin, you can slow down the process of aging, increase the health of the skin and even get rid of imperfections. Women want a man who takes care of themselves and this includes their skin. By looking your best, you build confidence and make yourself more attractive to women. But one thing that men don’t realize is that skin care also helps with shaving. When you shave it’s important to have healthy skin. By shaving on a clean canvas you will have much nicer results when shaving. But if your skin has bumps, ingrown hairs, acne or other blemishes, these could get in the way of a good shave. Shaving with skin in poor condition could lead to cuts and undesirable results. Here are some tips for men to take care of their skin for better shaving results.   Cleanse your Face The first step in any skincare routine is to cleanse your face. This means using a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause acne or bumps. Men should look for a cleanser that is specifically designed for their skin type, whether that’s oily, dry, sensitive or combination. This is important because using a cleanser that’s not right for your skin type could leave your skin too dry, irritated, or too oily. Combination skin is where skin is naturally oily in the T-zone which is the across forehead and down the nose to the chin but dry on the cheeks.  Cleansing your face leaves the skin feeling fresh and clean. If you’re rocking a beard and/or mustache, it’s important to cleanse facial hair as well. Facial hair can harbor bacteria and dirt so it’s important to remove the impurities.   Exfoliate Regularly Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This helps to unclog pores and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. Men should exfoliate once or twice a week using a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid. But did you know that shaving is type of exfoliation as well? When you shave you are taking off the outer layer of skin. So shaving is a great way to exfoliate. However, it’s important to use a very sharp blade. If you use a dull blade or a low-quality blade, this could damage your skin and leave it irritated. And the more blades you have (5 blade cartridges for example) the more irritation this may create. So if possible, the best type of blade is a single blade. Use a safety razor or double edge razor for shaving as this will give you the closest shave and create less irritation to the skin than cartridge blades. It’s also recommended to shave with a non-foaming shaving cream as this will allow you to see what you’re shaving. You don’t want to shave over any bumps or acne. By using a clear shaving cream or gel you can see what you’re shaving and give you the ability to shave around any skin imperfections.   Moisturize Moisturizing is an essential step in any skincare routine. It helps to hydrate the skin and prevent dryness, which can lead to premature aging and wrinkles. Men should look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps to retain moisture in the skin, and vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties. Men should also look for a moisturizer that is non-comedogenic which means the product won’t clog or block pores. This helps prevent acne. Many men forget to moisturize or think this step is not that important. But it is very important. When you cleanse the skin to remove the oils, you need to put them back in to prevent over dryness.   Protect your Skin from the Sun Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature aging and skin cancer. Men should always wear sunscreen when they are going to be outside for extended periods of time, even on cloudy days. Check the UV index on the weather app to know if it’s necessary to wear it. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it generously to all exposed skin. It’s important to note that sunscreen generally only lasts for 90 minutes. So it’s important to reapply if you plan to be exposed to the sun for hours at a time. It’s also a good idea to wear a hat that has full face coverage. Baseball caps don’t provide complete coverage, but they can at least cover the forehead and sometimes the eyes. Be sure to reapply as necessary.   Watch your Diet Your diet can have a significant impact on the health of your skin. Eating a diet that is high in processed foods and sugar can lead to inflammation and acne. These kinds of foods have poor nutritional value so they can have a negative effect on the skin. On the other hand, a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants which fight against oxidants which damage the skin and promote disease. Health fats such as omega-3s and monounsaturated fats promote healthy hormones and healthy cell function. Hormones, when not in balance, can lead to skin issues such as acne. In conclusion, taking care of your skin is not just for women. Men need to pay attention to their skin too. A simple skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, sun protection, and a healthy diet can go a long way in keeping your skin looking and feeling its best. So, don’t be afraid to take care of your skin – it’s an investment in your health and wellbeing. Health and Wellness