Why wet shaving?

A short introduction to double-edge shaving.

Wet shaving means shaving with water and a lubricant such as soap or cream. It includes cartridge razors, but the term is often used for shaving with a safety razor and brush. A double-edge, or DE, safety razor holds one replaceable blade with a cutting edge on each side. The razor stays; the blade is changed when it no longer shaves comfortably.

Why use a DE razor?

A DE razor gives you direct control over its angle and pressure. Traditional DE razors generally have a non-pivoting head, so you set the shaving angle yourself. Razor heads differ in how much of the blade they expose and how firmly they support it. Handle length, weight and head shape also affect how a razor feels in use.

Most DE razors use the same standard double-edge blades, available from many manufacturers. You can try another blade without replacing the razor or committing to a proprietary cartridge. Blades are generally inexpensive, though the total cost depends on the razor you buy and how much other equipment you accumulate.

There is also a broad choice of shaving soaps and creams, including unscented options and small-batch Canadian products. Shaving soap is commonly worked into lather with a brush. Many creams can simply be applied by hand. You do not need a large collection of equipment to start.

What you need

The essentials are a razor, compatible blades, water and a shaving soap or cream. If you choose a hard shaving soap, a brush is useful for loading the soap and working it into lather. A separate shaving bowl is optional: many people build lather directly on their face.

A small blade sampler can help you find a comfortable combination. There is no need to buy a large supply before trying it. Follow the razor maker’s instructions for fitting the blade and securing the head, and handle a blade by its short, unsharpened sides.

You can begin with one razor and one shaving product. Additional handles, stands and bowls are optional purchases. More expensive razors may offer different materials, finishes or adjustments. Price is a poor guide to how a particular razor will suit you.

The learning curve

If you are used to a pivoting cartridge, a non-pivoting razor may take practice. Start with light pressure and short strokes, following the direction your hair grows. Keep the area lubricated and rinse the head as needed. You do not need to remove every trace of stubble in one pass.

At first, pay more attention to comfort than closeness. Angle, pressure, blade choice and preparation all affect the shave. If you are experimenting, change one thing at a time. Stop if your skin becomes uncomfortable.

A safety razor does not automatically shave closer than a cartridge, and changing razors is no guarantee against irritation. The appeal is the choice of equipment and the control it gives you.

Finding Canadian goods

The Makers directory covers Canadian razors, brushes, soaps and creams. Stockists lists Canadian shops, including those that carry imported blades and other equipment, with domestic shipping thresholds.