Traditional Shaving 2026: The Complete Guide for Beginners and Experts

Discover the art of classic wet shaving with a safety razor. Learn which razor, brush, and soap suit you best, how to achieve the perfect shave, and which products professional barbers choose.

Why Traditional Shaving
Safety Razors: Complete Analysis
Shaving Brushes: Types and Selection
Shaving Soaps and Creams
Blades: Selection Guide
Shaving Technique Step-by-Step
Frequently Asked Questions
Starter Kit - What to Buy First

Why Choose Traditional Shaving

Traditional wet shaving with a safety razor is not just a technique - it's an experience. If you're tired of expensive multi-blade cartridges that irritate your skin, it's time for an upgrade.

Since 2003, The Two Barbers has equipped thousands of men with the best traditional shaving tools. In this guide, we share our experience with 60+ premium brands to help you start correctly.

Did You Know Traditional shaving saves up to 200 euros per year on blades, while providing a closer shave with less irritation.

Safety Razors - The Heart of Traditional Shaving

The safety razor is the foundation of classic wet shaving. It uses a single double-edge blade that provides a closer shave with less irritation than conventional multi-blade razors.

Safety Razor Categories

Type	Characteristics	Suitable For
Closed Comb	Mild, forgiving	Beginners, sensitive skin
Open Comb	Aggressive, efficient	Advanced users, thick beard
Slant	Diagonal blade, cuts easily	Coarse hair, experienced users
Adjustable	Changes aggressiveness	Everyone - maximum flexibility

Advice for Beginners Start with a mild closed comb razor like the Merkur 34C or Muhle R89. Once you gain experience, you can try more aggressive models.

Shaving Brushes - The Secret to Perfect Lather

The shaving brush is an essential part of traditional shaving. It creates rich lather, lifts the hair, and prepares the skin for a close shave.

Brush Hair Types

Hair Type	Characteristics	Price
Silvertip Badger	Extremely soft, holds lots of water	Premium
Super Badger	Soft with light scrub	High
Pure Badger	Firmer, good exfoliation	Medium
Synthetic	Vegan, quick drying	Affordable

Shaving Soaps and Creams - The Foundation of Lather

A good shaving soap or cream makes the difference between an ordinary and a perfect shave. It creates a protective layer, hydrates, and softens the hair.

Pro Tip Shaving creams are easier to use for beginners. Soaps require more technique but last longer and produce richer lather.

Shaving Blades - The Critical Choice

The blade is the most important consumable in traditional shaving. Each blade has a different character - some are mild, others sharp, others last longer.

Important The "best" blade is different for every man. Try 4-5 different brands to find the one that suits your hair and skin.

Shaving Technique Step-by-Step

Preparation

Wash your face with hot water or shower to open pores and soften the hair

Apply pre-shave oil if you have sensitive skin or coarse hair

Soak the brush in hot water for 1-2 minutes if badger, or simply wet if synthetic

Building Lather

Load the brush with soap or cream using circular motions for 15-20 seconds

Build lather in a bowl or directly on the face with quick strokes

Perfect lather should have peaks like whipped cream - if bubbly, it needs more water

The Shave

Hold the razor at a 30-degree angle from the skin - let the weight of the razor do the work

First pass: Shave with the grain (WTG - With The Grain)

Rinse, re-lather, second pass across the grain (XTG - Across The Grain)

For BBS (Baby Butt Smooth): Third pass against the grain (ATG - Against The Grain)

Post-Shave

Rinse with cold water to close pores

Apply alum block if you have minor cuts

Finish with aftershave balm or lotion for hydration and antiseptic properties

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a blade last?

It depends on hair density and brand. On average, 3-7 shaves per blade. When it starts tugging instead of cutting, replace it.

Why do I have irritation after shaving?

Common causes: too much pressure, wrong angle, dry skin, dull blade. Try a milder razor, good pre-shave oil, and shave with the grain.

Closed or Open Comb for a beginner?

Definitely Closed Comb! It's more forgiving of mistakes and provides a smooth shave. The Merkur 34C or Muhle R89 are perfect choices to start.

Do I need a brush or can I use my hands?

The brush is essential! It lifts the hair, spreads the cream evenly, prepares the skin, and makes all the difference in the result.

How long will it take me to learn?

After 5-10 shaves you'll feel comfortable. After 1 month you'll have developed your own routine. The learning curve is part of the fun!

Final Tips

Do This

Preparation: Hot water before, cold after
Angle: 30 degrees, let the weight do the work
Short strokes: Small movements, not big sweeps
Stretch skin: With your free hand for a cleaner cut
Patience: At least 3 passes for BBS

Avoid This

Pressure: Never press the razor into the skin
Rushing: Traditional shaving takes time
Dull blades: Change regularly
Dry shaving: Always with soap/cream
ATG from the start: Learn WTG first

Starter Kit - What to Buy First

If you're starting from scratch, these products give you everything you need for a perfect traditional shave:

Merkur 34C Razor

Omega Brush

Taylor Cream

Tip: Orders over 59 euros get free shipping!

Why Choose The Two Barbers

Since 2003 20+ years of experience

60+ Premium Brands Internationally selected

2,500+ Products The largest collection

100% Authentic Guaranteed authenticity

Immediate Dispatch Free over 59 euros

Remember: Traditional shaving is a journey, not just a result. Every shave is an opportunity for self-care and relaxation. Enjoy the process!

The Art of the Perfect Shave

Traditional Shaving: Complete Guide 2025 | The Two Barbers

Traditional Shaving 2026: The Complete Guide for Beginners and Experts

Table of Contents

Why Choose Traditional Shaving