What is wet shaving? The How-To Guide for Beginners

Alright, fellas, lean in close and listen up. We're about to embark on a little journey back in time, to the days when men didn't just shave - they did something called "wet shaving". Yes, indeed, there was a time when shaving was not just a monotonous morning routine but a sacred ritual of male grooming. And if you've landed here, it's clear you're considering a foray into this classic rite. Grab a cup of coffee, or maybe a scotch (we don't judge), and get ready for a deep dive into the world of wet shaving.

You may ask, "What exactly is wet shaving?" Well, we're glad you asked. Wet shaving is an art form, the shaving equivalent of painting a masterpiece. Except instead of brush strokes on a canvas, it's a razor gliding on your face. It's the luxurious and incredibly satisfying process of using a shaving brush to apply a thick lather of shaving cream or soap to your face, then shaving it off with a single-blade razor, also known as a safety razor or a straight razor. Sound dangerous? A little scary? That's part of the thrill.

The beauty of wet shaving lies in its simplicity and the pleasure you get from slowing down and doing something well. In contrast to the modern, five-blade (or is it seven-blade now?) razors, wet shaving is about going back to basics and enjoying the process. Remember when your granddad would emerge from the bathroom, cheeks as smooth as a baby's bottom, and that classic, manly scent wafting through the house? That, my friends, was the magic of wet shaving.

For an optimal wet shave, you'll need a few key items: a safety or straight razor, shaving brush, and high-quality shaving soap or cream. And when we say high-quality, we mean Gilbert Henry high-quality. A choice favorite among seasoned wet shavers, Gilbert Henry's line of grooming products offers luxurious, natural ingredients that ensure a smooth and nourishing shave. (Pssst...try the Bay Rum Aftershave Balm for that old-world barbershop scent - you can thank us later.)

First, you soak your shaving brush in warm water. This step is vital for achieving the rich lather that makes wet shaving feel like a spa day instead of a chore. 

Then, using your warm, wet shaving brush, you whip up a lather from your shaving soap or cream. Once your lather is ready, apply it to your face. This is where the "wet" in wet shaving comes in - keeping your face hydrated softens the hairs and makes them easier to cut, reducing the chance of nicks and cuts. So don't be stingy with that lather!

Now for the main event. Take your safety or straight razor and shave with the grain of your beard, using short, gentle strokes. Remember, wet shaving is not a race. You're not trying to get out the door in record time, you're taking a moment for yourself to engage in a ritual that men have been enjoying for centuries.

Once you've finished shaving, rinse your face with cold water to close up your pores, then apply a soothing aftershave balm to calm any irritation and keep your skin feeling soft and smooth. Of course, we'd recommend the aforementioned Gilbert Henry Bay Rum Aftershave Balm, a perennial favorite with a scent that'll make you feel like a man of mystery and adventure.

So why wet shave, you ask? Aside from the sheer pleasure of it, wet shaving can actually lead to healthier skin. It exfoliates, removing dead skin cells, and the single blade reduces the chance of ingrown hairs.

You'll find that wet shaving also cuts down on waste, making it an eco-friendly choice. Safety and straight razors are made to last, not like those plastic disposables that end up in landfills.

And let's be honest - isn't there something appealing about joining the ranks of men who've enjoyed this ritual? Men like your granddad, Cary Grant, and Sean Connery? (Sure, we don't know for certain that they wet shaved, but come on, you can just tell, can't you?)

So there you have it, the art of wet shaving, demystified and laid bare. If this has whet your appetite (pun intended) for a more luxurious, eco-friendly, and downright manly shaving experience, why not give it a shot? And remember, you can't go wrong with Gilbert Henry products to start your journey.

Until then, happy shaving, gentlemen!