Yardley Vintage Shave Soap

So I went to the local antique emporium and noticed a wooden shave soap bowl on the counter next to the straight razors. I picked the bowl up and the name quickly rang a bell. Yardley shave soap...I've heard people mention it a few times in the shaving forums. I was totally psyched until I took off the lid and realized it was empty. It's okay though, because I found two items that were a welcome addition to my collection. I'll be sure to do a post and share pictures soon. -Nick

Shaving Gear: Discussing the Gillette Super Speed

So maybe you're intrigued with the whole concept of traditional wet shaving and you want to give it a shot. Let's talk safety razors. Some people lean towards wanting to try one of the vintage Gillette razors and others don't feel comfortable reusing an old razor. I'm not a germ freak or anything, but I was skeptical about using the old razors. That is until I found guides online that show you how to properly sterilize them (I will share the guides in upcoming posts).

If you're interested in trying a vintage Gillette, I'd have to recommend you try and find a Gillette Super Speed. Are there better vintage razors than the Super Speed variety? Yes. Does it make a great starter razor? Absolutely! Heck some people try it and they stick with it, because it's what works best for them. I can recommend this with confidence, because I belong in shaving forums where I've seen numerous posts on this particular topic (I've taken part in many of them). Traditional shaving enthusiasts and razor collectors alike have discussed this topic and while their opinions may vary on what particular vintage shaver is a great starter razor...I'm certain that most would say that I'm not steering you wrong because the Gillette Super Speed is one of the most highly recommended and it's quite effective. Soon I'll share how I find vintage razors at a fair market value, because nobody wants to get ripped off.

What You Need to Know: The Basics

In my search, I found that there were not that many experts in this field. I came across the Shave Tutor over at youtube. Mark, otherwise known as Mantic59, is an expert in this field and it's quite evident in his videos. It's important that you learn the basic fundamentals of getting a good shave. Things like using warm water to prepare your face for a shave, keeping the skin hydrated throughout the shave, getting the right shaving brush for you (optional), using the cream or soap that gives you the best results, finding a razor that works best for you and post-shave skin treatment.

I would highly recommend you take some time out and watch Mark's 3 part series: Introduction to Traditional Wet Shaving

Introduction to Traditional Wet Shaving 

Part 1: Concepts

Introduction to Traditional Wet Shaving 

Part 2: Lathering

Introduction to Traditional Wet Shaving 

Part 3: Shaving

How to Change Shaving Methods: Cheap, Better Quality and Eco-Friendly

Benefits of Traditional Wet Shaving

About two years ago I stumbled on the concept of traditional wet shaving. Since then my shaves have become much more pleasurable and I've been able to save money in the process. Another bonus is that going the more traditional route is eco friendly, especially when compared to modern shavingsystems. I'd like to share my journey and research in hopes that your shaves will improve too!

Why and How I Started

Up until two years ago I had no idea how to shave properly. It was around October and I was shopping for new blades at Sam's Club; I had just ran out of blades that tore my face up quite badly so I was tempted to go back to a familiar razor that wasn't much better to be honest. I reluctantly bought the expensive razors. My shaves that followed were just horrible. As I recall I was up late one night, I decided I had enough and it was time to do some research. I had two goals in mind, finding an affordable and comfortable alternative for shaving. That's when I came across Corey Greenberg's shaving segment on NBC's Today Show. The next day I purchased the starter Van Der Hagen Premium Shave Set which includes a boar hair brush, a soap puck and a bowl to hold your soap. After using this kit for many months, I can assure you this is a great low cost start. As a matter of fact, I still use the Van Der Hagen shavingsoap to this day.

The Corey Greenberg video was simple and intriguing to me. If this has piqued your curiosity, then be sure to check out my next post that dives into a refined way that will get you started on your journey to a more comfortable shaving experience!

Shaveblog's Corey Greenberg on NBC's Today Show 

The video that made traditional wet shaving popular again.