

I recently received an email from a journalism student in Calgary, Canada. He was writing an article on the resurgence of traditional shaving methods and wanted to ask me a few questions about it. What do you think about my answers?

Why are people switching to traditional shaving methods?

I find there are three main reasons for people switching to traditional shaving products: cost savings, shaving problems, and connecting with a previous generation. The cost aspect is fairly obvious, with multi-blade razor cartridges reaching a price-point people just don’t want to pay so they start looking around for less expensive alternatives. Some change to address chronic shaving problems like nicks, cuts, and razor burn. Finally, some try it because they came across their father’s (or grandfather’s) shaving gear and want to make that historical or family connection. Whatever the reason they generally discover that they can make a painful or unpleasant chore into a pleasing ritual.

What makes traditional methods better?

The “ritual” aspect can be important: shaving done more carefully usually results in a better shave. That aside, being able to learn the simple skills associated with shaving, along with the lower return-on-investment, usually provides superior results.

What advice would you give to someone looking at switching to traditional methods?

Taking the time to learn to shave properly is important. It’s a skill–not a difficult one but a skill nonetheless–so there is going to be a learning curve which may be different for everyone. Like learning to ride a bike or play a musical instrument. Some of the concepts that are important include the idea of beard reduction instead of beard elimination, the importance of pre-shave preparation, understanding the way the beard grows, and how to use the right pressure and direction on the razor.

What are some common concerns new users often have?

Most have a fear of really cutting themself up. And there is a certain amount of truth to that: as a skill is being learned there are always chances for making an error. But most find the issue is not as serious as they were worried about. And after learning correct techniques a major nick or cut is rare.

What do you enjoy most about helping people switch to traditional methods?