Men Essentials and learning how to shave

If you’re a male and over 14 years of age, and even though you may do it almost every day, chances are you don’t know how to shave. There’s a difference between cutting hair off your face and actually knowing how to do it right. And it’s a difference lost on most men.

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For many of us, the problem stems from the fact that no one, not even our dads, taught us how to shave. We just had to figure it out for ourselves. So we slap on some kind of foam or gel out of a can, and drag a multi-blade disposable razor over our skin until the hair is gone.

Problem is, if you ask most men who shave that way, it means razor burn, ingrown hairs, and an irritating chore that no one looks forward to. But there is an alternative, a way for you to not only get a good shave, but to enjoy the process. And it’s not new, it’s not innovative. In fact, it’s how your grandfather used to shave.

It’s called traditional wet shaving. It involves first washing your face with a good soap, then building up a lather with a natural hair brush. The key is the razor: a double edged or straight blade gives you the best shave. Follow that up with a lotion and moisturiser.

Leading a shaving class with Jonathan Hagey of Kingpin Chic Vintage Menswear.

Leading a shaving class with Jonathan Hagey of Kingpin Chic Vintage Menswear.

Yes, it’s a lot of work. Yes, it’ll take more time. And yes, it requires learning a new skill. But here are just some of the benefits of traditional wet shaving:

  • a better shave for most men
  • an experience you actually enjoy
  • feel more grown up and manly
  • a 10-15 minute window of time that is your own
  • a skill that you can pass on to your sons (should you have any)

In other words, done right, shaving could change your life. And if you’re ready to change your life, there’s a place in Toronto you need to visit: Men Essentials.

Various safety razors on display at Men Essentials.

Various safety razors on display at Men Essentials.

This shop is small, with glass-fronted cabinets lining the walls. Inside the cabinets are a wet shaver’s arsenal – blades, lotions, soaps, everything you need to get started or continue wet shaving. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and the prices are comparable to online shops – but the great advantage here is that you can actually smell the soaps and feel the weight of the razors. So get shaving.

Men Essentials is located at 412 Danforth Avenue.