A Close Shave

I'm the consummate metrosexual. And I know my products. That's especially when it comes to getting a close shave. I think if you use the Acqua di Parma line or Geo Trumpers, or Taylor's of Old Bond Street, or The Art of Shaving or Dermalogica, you can't really go wrong. But let me tell you about my daily routine when it comes to getting a close shave.

When showering, I like to use Dermalogica's face cleaner to soften my beard. Their products are gentle and smell great. I also like the Fresh Line of facial cleansers - -the olive scent for men is supreme. Once I've showered, the daily ritual of a clean shave is essential. I start with applying the Art of Shaving pre-shave oil. I've tried a number of pre-shave oils including Anthony's, Dermalogica, Trueffitt & Hill, and Taylor's, but there's something about the thickness and consistency of the Art of Shaving pre-shave oil that preps your beard like nothing else possibly can. Once I've prepped, I take my Acqua di Parma badger brush (the softest brush that money can buy) and dab some Acqua di Parma shaving cream on to the brush. Their shaving cream is great, but a little tough on consistency, so I soften it in hot water before applying to the badger. I then swirl the badger brush in a circular motion all over my neck and face, forming a rich lather. The aim here is to ensure that the thick lather completely covers your face so you can't see a trace of your beard. Then, using a Mach 3 blade on a heavy razor, I begin to shave in gentle, yet firm strokes. Aah...it feels heavenly. Once done, I re-lather, and shave against the grain. This gives an incredibly close shave, especially in areas on the neck. I then dab my face with cold water to close the pores and voila -- an awesome shave. But it isn't over yet. To ensure the skin is not dry, I use Kiehl's non alcoholic herbal toner to cool off. Kiehl's has an excellent line of products and their toner hydrates the face. Many guys make the mistake of using alcohol based post shave lotions or after shave to dab their face -- don't do it. Not a good thing for your face. Of course, if you use a straight edge razor, you're one up on me. I don't have the guts to use one. I will say that The Borgata in Atlantic City gives awesome shaves - so does the Art of Shaving on Madison Avenue.