Nothing beats the feeling of a clean, close shave...

Men who care about their shaving routine know that the right razor makes a big difference. And as we know, straight razors are making a comeback from the late 80s and 90s. They are a pretty straightforward and simple tool, but they are also pretty intimidating to men if you have never used it before. No need to sweat, let me take you this guide on how to use a straight razor. 

What do you need? 

• Shaving Soap 
• Shaving Brush
• Straight Razor 
• Towel 
• Aftershave Balm/Lotion/Gel

Step 1: PREP YOUR FACE.

I can't emphasize this enough. Here are a few ways to prepare yourself before you start shaving. 

• Shower

To take a hot shower before shaving is the easiest preparation. Just run as hot as comfortable hot water on your beard and face. Use some soap or shampoo to remove the natural oils. Don’t dry your face after the shower.

•   Splashing hot water on the face.

If you prefer to take a shower after shaving, you can just splash hot water onto your face instead.

• Hold a hot towel.

Soak the towel in a hot water and hold it onto your face for about 5 to 8 minutes.

Step 2: Lather up shaving cream

Soak your favourite brush in hot water and mix your shaving cream using the brush to get a thick lather. Apply the lather onto your face in a circular motion and leave it for a few minutes. 

Step 3: Start Shaving! 

Mentally divide your face into four different sections - your cheeks, under the jaw, upper lip and chin.

• Cheeks 

Hold your straight razor, with the blade facing downwards. Pull the skin of your cheek upwards, towards your cheekbones, and shave in small, downward motions. Start slow, until you get the hang of it. Repeat the same process for the other side of the cheek. 

• Under the Jaw 

Before you start on the next part of your face, don't forget to wipe the lather off your razor. Once again, hold the razor with the blade facing downwards, now you have to pull the skin under your jaw downwards and shave in small, downward motions slowly. 

• Upper Lip 

This part of your face is easier to shave. Just stretch your upper lip downwards and shave with the same motion as before.  

• Chin

Yes, we have reached the last section of your face. Once again, stretch your lower lip upward and shave the chin. Tilt your head back and elevate the chin and shave. Don't forget to pull the skin under your chin downwards, and shave downwards slowly. Be careful not to nick yourself! 

And there you have it gentlemen, you have officially started your shaving journey with a straight razor. Although it is a long and slow process, but trust me a traditional wet shave definitely brings you a closer shave, leaving your face smooth as a baby's bottom! 

And as we all know, shaving constantly can cause the razor blade to be blunt. So, here are a few simple steps on how to replace the razor blade with our very own Premier Straight Razor and Astra Razor Blades.

Break the Astra blade carefully in half, press down firmly on the blade head of the razor. Insert one of the halves into the blade head. 

Another way is to push the blade head out swiftly and insert the blade into the cross section of the blade head. Place the blade head back into position until a "click" sound is heard. 

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There you go, here's my simple guide on how to use a straight razor. Feel free to try and let me know what you think!