SHAVEOLOGY DISCLAIMER

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2 DISCLAIMER This book is not intended as a substitution for the advice of a trained professional. If you suffer from a health condition such as sensitive skin or any type of skin condition that may preclude you from shaving, consult a physician or dermatologist before exercising any of the practices detailed in this ebook. Copyright 2014 by Shaveology All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, including photocopying, scanning, recording, or otherwise without prior written permission of the copyright holder. 2

3 6 STEPS TO THE PERFECT SHAVE TABLE OF CONTENTS OUR GUARANTEE TO YOU 4 WELCOME TO A NEW BREED OF GENTLEMAN! 5 SHAVE LIKE A GENTLEMAN FOR THE NEXT TWO MONTHS ON US! 6 THE RISE AND FALL OF WET SHAVING 7 THE COMEBACK 8 THE WET SHAVE (YOU RE WELCOME) 10 THE PERFECT SHAVE IN SIX SIMPLE STEPS 11 HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT SHAVING SUPPLIES: A GENTLEMAN S GUIDE 14 NOW GO FORTH TO EXPERIENCE THE BEST SHAVE OF YOUR LIFE 18 3

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5 WELCOME TO A NEW BREED OF GENTLEMAN! Shaveology was born out of the desire to turn our passion and interest in wet shaving into a business. We took a hard look at the industry and felt that it was boring and outdated. We also believed that we could deliver high-end shaving products that every guy could afford. We re stoked to have you join us as we achieve World Shaving Domination! Wet shaving results in a better shave and less waste on the environment. It's better for the skin, and it's fun and relaxing. Wet shaving is presently at the core of what we do, but in the future we'll offer more hand-crafted products such as traditional shaving options, shave creams, after shave balm, badger hair brushes, and more. Our promise to you goes beyond our products. We are here to share our secrets, bond over modern grooming, and ultimately be your partner in achieving a style that is uniquely yours. We are a family owned company and actually start our day shaving with the same razors we offer to you. That s why we stand behind them with our ironclad guarantee. We know we wouldn t be anywhere without you, our valued customers. Your satisfaction is truly our success. We created this ebook to make sure we deliver on our promises. If it turns out you have more questions or need additional support of any kind, we are just an or a phone call away. 5

6 SHAVE LIKE A GENTLEMAN FOR THE NEXT TWO MONTHS ON US! Shaveology currently offers the best quality and best value in double edge razors and wet shaving supplies on the market! Join us online at shaveology.co to gain insider access to the latest in shaving innovation, grooming tips, and style inspiration hand picked for a new breed of gentleman. To get things started off right, we want you to continue to experience the perfect shave on us! 6

7 THE RISE AND FALL OF WET SHAVING Shaving has been part of male hygiene for millennia. Cave paintings depicting various shaving implements prove that even prehistoric man sought to keep stubble in check, even resorting to shark teeth and clamshells if it meant achieving a proper grooming. The Egyptians won the shaving innovation game, with circular gold and copper razors turning up in Egyptian tombs that date back to the 4 th millennium BC! 1 Despite the Egyptians early dedication to a smooth jawline, shaving didn t truly catch on until Roman times. King Lucius Targuinius Priscus put the razor on the map as early as the 6 th century B.C. 100 years later, shaving was finally a true staple in a gentleman s grooming routine. Julius Cesar was known for his techniques, using tweezers to pull out errant strands, while Alexander the Great viewed the razor as a tactical wartime tool that allowed his men to escaped unscrupulous beard-grabbing enemies. After centuries of evolution, the wet shave emerged. Offered by barbers as a luxury service during times when running water did not yet exist, gentleman sought after the precise shave delivered by a straight razor. The straight razor remained the standard until the 1900 s, until King Gillette rolled out a product known as the safety razor. Gilette s line of products would eventually reach a level of fame that can only come by achieving true bathroom counter ubiquity. The safety razor utilized a double-edged, disposable blade. Where others had attempted to dethrone the straight razor with these fool proof, expendable shaving tools, Gillette accomplished unprecedented success with its carbon steel blade and system that delivered on the promise of a safer shave. Convenience was in, and the true art of shaving began its descent into obscurity. 1 Trex, Ethan. A Brief History of Shaving. Mental Floss. Retrieved August 7,

8 THE COMEBACK Safety razors became the standard after World War I, as even soldiers were supplied with this foolproof grooming tool when serving in the military. When they returned from the war, they brought the practice of wet shaving with a Gillette razor home with them. 2 The method was safe, convenient, and quick, even for those who have yet to enjoy that first cup of morning coffee. The wet shave continued its evolution past its infant safety razor days, maturing into the multi-blade razor that would eventually become the new standard due to the tug and cut method. Under this method, one blade would cut the hair, and in the same process, pull the hair from its follicle. This allowed another razor to cut the hair even closer to the root. Manufactures capitalized on these new methods, introducing increasingly complex systems in effort to make shaving easier and more effective. Easy and effective are typically words we, as consumers, flock towards. However, the question becomes, as shaving tools become more evolved and complex, are they actually working? Who is actually being served by these complicated blade systems the man holding the razor, or the marketer eyeing his dollar? And what about the other products popping up all over the proverbial bathroom counter the gels, foams, and creams? Is there truly a benefit in the mix for a man s skin and his shaving experience, or is the only real benefit the additional line in the shaving company s ledger? Consumers are starting to take note of the mediocre quality offered by currently popular shaving methods and the tools. From dry, uncomfortable, irritated skin, to concerns about never truly experiencing a fully clean shave, the outcry for a better shave and a higher quality products has become loud and clear. It s also now quite apparent that cheap, disposable razors aren t actually all that cheap once one factors in the cost of purchasing replacement razors in perpetuity. 2 Shaveology. A Brief History & Explanation of Wet Shaving. Retrieved August 7,

9 So, what is a gentleman, concerned about having the closest shave, using quality, affordable shaving products, and preserving his skin for the joys of life still to come, to do? 9

10 THE WET SHAVE (YOU RE WELCOME) Wet shaving was particularly popular among the generation that most likely includes your grandfather. It s comprised by a safety razor, as well as several unfamiliar implements, all of which we will discuss in detail. The razor is the largest part of your overall investment, but the savings you experience in the long run will be obvious. 3 The primary difference between the wet shave and the shave to which you are probably accustomed is the preparation process. Gentleman, this is key. Forget blearily slathering on shaving cream and using cheap metal and plastic to scrape it off, all the while praying it takes a few whiskers off in the process. With the wet shave, you actually prepare your face and hair for the process, not unlike an artist prepares his canvas. Enter the shaving brush: Using this brush, you develop a good lather with your choice of a shaving soap, which is then applied to your wet face. The hot water and the product you use will prime your face, softening the stubble, relaxing the skin, and opening the pores to allow for a truly close shave. With all of these preparations in place, you ve created the perfect storm that results in the perfect shave. But let s take a closer look at the process in detail, as a modern gentleman inevitably wants to nail it just right. 3 Friedman, Lex (2012). The Wet Shave. The Magazine. Retrieved August 7,

11 THE PERFECT SHAVE IN SIX SIMPLE STEPS Where foolproof mediocrity ends, artful execution begins. This technique is not difficult to master, but results will far surpass that of other shaving methods. Here are the 6 key steps to wet shaving: 4 STEP 1: HYDRATION With a name like wet shave, it should come as no surprise that water is a key component. There are a few ways you can ensure that your skin is well hydrated prior to shaving, but the best thing to do is shave immediately following your morning bath or shower. At this time, your facial muscles will be at their most relaxed state, and your hair will be softened as well. This will also make for a more enjoyable experience. STEP 2: OIL APPLICATION Shaving oil is another integral part of preparing for the best shave possible. Gently rub the oil onto your skin, massaging against the grain of your stubble to make hair more accessible. Allow it to soak in prior to shaving to create a protective barrier around your skin and add back even more moisture. The oil will also act as a lubricant for the motion of the blade. 4 Abdulgani, Omar (2014). 6 Steps to Perfect Wet Shave. Male Extravaganza. Retrieved August 7,

12 STEP 3: LATHER The major difference between wet shaving and traditional shaving is the use of a high quality shaving cream. This may not sound like a huge difference, but as with many of the finer things in life, the secret lies not only in what you have, but how you use it. The best way to apply a good lather is with the use of a shaving brush, which helps to further revitalize the facial muscles. The lather should be warm and just thick enough to coat your face without running. Avoid products that contain alcohol and those that come in aerosol cans, as they counteract the benefits created when you hydrated and moisturized your skin. Making sure your lather is warm will keep your pores open, which gives your blade the access to your hair it needs to deliver the best shave. STEP 4: THE BLADE Another key component to your high quality wet shave is using the right razor. Disposable razors have steel blades, which lack longevity and tend to irritate the skin with their excessive tugging. As you develop your expertise, try a double-edged safety razor or straight razor, but proceed with caution as these blades can cause cuts and nicks more easily than disposable razors. The blade must be sharp, however, to achieve a close, smooth shave. STEP 5: THE SHAVE Hold your razor underneath warm, running water prior to using it to create an additional lubricant for a smooth shave. Each stroke should be short and 12

13 steady, followed by a rinse of your blade to clear it of debris as you go. Always shave in the direction of the grain of your stubble, though you will need areas such as the chin and nose will require a diagonal stroke to avoid nicks and cuts. After finishing your shave, use cool water to rinse your skin and help close your pores, locking in moisture and reducing any minor irritation your skin may experience when shaving. STEP 6: RECOVERY Even with expert execution and solid precautionary measures, shaving involves manipulating and potentially irritating the skin. This makes aftershave just as important as any other player in this process. A cream or balm is highly recommended to protect the skin and reduce any burning. You can also take this opportunity to give yourself a light face massage, applying pressure in circular motions. Avoid applying any other products to your face for at least an hour after shaving. 13

14 HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT SHAVING SUPPLIES: A GENTLEMAN S GUIDE If you have decided that the wet shave is the only shave for you, it s imperative that you build your new routine atop a foundation of legit shaving supplies. We ve put together this guide on what to look for because our goal is to spread the shaving knowledge wealth, but we d be remiss not to mention that all of Shaveology s products are held to the highest standards discussed in this guide. You can count on experiencing the shave of your life using out products! 5 SHAVING OIL Pre-shave oils should be lightweight but effective at softening facial hair and opening pores. Look for oils made out of natural substances, like coconut oil, olive oil, or sunflower oil. These oils will not be greasy, which means they won t clog pores or damage skin. SHAVING CREAMS AND SOAPS Canned shaving cream is convenient and lathers quickly, but it utilizes 5 Muniz, Alex. Build Your Complete Shaving Kit. Ask Men. Retrieved August 7,

15 potentially harmful additives to achieve its quick lathering abilities. Mixing your own cream or soap into a good lather is a much better option that will also help promote and sustain your skin s health and moisture. These must be applied using a shaving brush or your hands. Lather is most effective when it s warm, and the same massaging action that creates lather also serves to help lift hair up off of your face while exfoliating the skin. Look for creams in a tub or jar, or in travel-sized tubes. Only choose creams that contain oil of some kind made out of a fatty substance. A popular choice is coconut oil, though glycerin is also an option. These substances will create a thick, rich lather, perfect for protecting your face during a shave. 6 SHAVING BRUSH The gold standard for a good shaving brush is badger hair. While other, synthetic brushes are available, badger hair is far superior for its ability to create a great lather and last a long time. Don t be turned off by the higher price tag the brush will last longer, making the higher cost worth it. Spend some time in any circle of shaving enthusiasts, and you will probably catch some debate over the nuances of different types of badger hair brushes. At the end of the day, as long as you select badger hair bristles, you will experience top-notch lather. 7 6 Gentleman s Gazette. The Shaving Cream Guide. Retrieved August 7, Andrew. Choosing a Shaving Brush The Different Grades of Badger. Dappered. Retrieved August 7,

16 RAZORS The razor is, of course, the life of the party here. A well-constructed razor will undoubtedly save you money, as you will only need to replace the blades rather than the entire apparatus every few uses. What kind you choose depends on your skill, experience, and comfort. One of the more popular options is the double edge razor. Also known as the DE razor or safety razor, these blades are the old school version of the cartridge razor we know (and throw away, repeatedly) today. They do require some instruction in order to use properly, and you re likely to find them less foolproof than the cartridge razors presently piling up at the nearest landfill. However, they will deliver one of the closest shaves you will ever experience once you master the art that is the DE razor shave. Here are a couple pointers:! Keep the razor angled at about 30 degrees when using it! Pull straight down and avoid applying any pressure, as the weight of the handle should do the work perfectly This protocol, combined with oil, shaving cream, and hydration methods detailed above should be a safe, effective, and enjoyable way to shave. 8 8 Gentleman s Gazette. Double Edge Razor Guide How to Shave with a DE Razor. Retrieved August 7,

17 AFTERSHAVE PRODUCTS Quality aftershave products will help moisturize the skin and help prevent ingrown hairs from forming. They can also reduce skin s sensitivity and vulnerability post-shave as it recovers from being stripped of its topmost layer. If you don t like the feel and sting of most aftershave products, or if you feel that they dry out your skin, try an aftershave balm instead. This lotion-like product soothes skin and helps it recover faster, making it an ideal post-shave application. 9 The perfect shave begins with the perfect supplies. Don t settle for anything less than the best available tools for the job when you want the job done right. 9 Skin Care for Men Explained. What type of Aftershave is the Best Aftershave for You? Retrieved August 7,

18 NOW GO FORTH TO EXPERIENCE THE BEST SHAVE OF YOUR LIFE More and more, men are considering their grooming practices as one of many factors that make the man. The modern gentleman is developing distinguishing tastes for style that go beyond attire and accessories. The inherent value in impeccable grooming is undeniable, beginning with our ancestors desire to minimize discomfort or elude an enemy. Today, artfully maintained facial hair has evolved into having the ability to contribute directly to a man s facility to look and feel his best, have healthy skin, command the right presence, or even attract a suitable someone. We created Shaveology for a new breed of gentleman: Those who are ready to take grooming to the next level. We hope you continue to raise your razor with pride think of it as a little toast to yourself as you prepare to dominate the day. Now that we ve bonded over the perfect shave, please don t hesitate to hit us up at support@shaveology.co with any questions, concerns, or even complaints (we can take it!) about our products. We would also like to personally invite you to direct your discerning eye to our full array of shaving razors, post-shaving products, and other innovative accessories. Each one was created with the goal of providing a fresh, polished look for your face and restoring art and pride to shaving. Go forth. Be dapper. Shave like a gentleman. 18