Straight Razor VS Safety Razor: Which One Is Better – Groom+Style Investigates?

If you’re wondering whether you should purchase a straight razor or a safety razor, then there are a couple things that you should know.

For years, people have been debating whether straight razors are better that safety razors – at the end of the day it will come down to personal preference.  However, being armed with some more knowledge about both types of shaving will help you make an informed choice about which is right for you.

Straight Razor

Straight razors are an old fashioned method of shaving and as the name suggest are built with a single blade. They deliver an exceptionally close shave and if cared for will last virtually forever.  They do not suffer from the problem of becoming clogged with hair like shavers with multiple blades.  Straight razors can deliver a very precise shave and are perfect for shaving mustaches, beards, and sideburns with accuracy.  One of the main downsides to straight razors is that you can easily get cut if you don’t know how to use it properly. If you have never used a straight razor, it is important to take the time to learn how to shave with a straight razor.

Straight razors shaving will appeal to those who see shaving as more of an art and lifestyle, and are not concerned about the extra time and energy it takes.  If you are interested in learning a new skill, and are happy to invest the time and money in all the equipment then take the plunge.  Being able to tell your friends that you shave with a straight razor will definitely gain you significance. They also make a perfect gift.

Safety Razor

Safety razors use a single double edged disposable blade, hidden behind a safety bar which acts as a guard, therefore allowing you to shave without the risk of cutting yourself.  Safety razors are a lot more convenient and eaiser to learn how to use than a straight razor.  You do not have to invest in a whole heap of paraphernalia like a strop and hone.  You will however have to replace the blades regularly and put up with the fact that the cut hairs will get stuck between the blades.  Straight razors are a lot more affordable compared to safety razors but still deliver an exceptionally close shave.

Safety Razors will appeal to those shavers who still want to own a beautiful “tool” for shaving but do not want to invest as much time or money in the process.  It is quite common for men to start shaving with using a beautifully crafted safety razors and then progress onto using straight razors as they mature.

Whatever, you choose; straight razor, safety razor or even an electric shaver enjoy the experience!

Some guys have thick, full beards, while others do what they can with lighter, finer ones. Your beard can be a chore, or it can be your pride and joy.

At Groom+Style, we love beard, and could talk about them all day long…in celebration of beards we decided to create the ultimate list of gifts for men with beards.

Beards are an evolutionary carry-over, and because they’re not showing any sign of disappearing anytime soon, whatever kind of facial hair you’re capable of growing, it makes sense to make the most of it.

A well-maintained beard, which by the way, doesn’t necessarily mean a beard that’s short and tightly cropped, can work wonders for your career prospects, your love life, and your general self-esteem.

If you’ve never paid much attention to your beard, now’s the time to start. Even if you are someone who takes great pride in his facial hair — growing the most epic Movember moustache imaginable — we’ll bet that there a few ways you could turn that fuzz into a full-on money and honey magnet.

We’ve rounded up 20 — count ‘em, 20! — of the best, most popular, most indispensably awesome grooming, styling and accessorizing beard products in the world.

If you’re a guy who loves his beard (and we most sincerely hope that you are), or you are looking for a gift for that beard lover in your life, then this is the only list you’ll ever need to refer to.

But first…

5 Tips For Everyday Beard and Skin Maintenance

1) Never Shave Against the Grain

Shaving against the direction of growth might get you a closer shave, but it’ll also cause irritation and razor burn, along with ingrown hairs. Shave with the direction of growth, working slowly, as hair grows in different directions on different parts of your face.

2) Trim Your Beard Regularly

Whatever length beard you have, trimming it regularly will help to keep hair ends in good condition.

3) Use a Quality Razor or Trimmer

Straight razor or electric, whatever you’re using, make sure it’s sharp and well-maintained. There’s nothing worse than a dull shave.

4) Wash Before Shaving

Your hair and skin are softer, more easy to shave once they’ve been washed in warm water. Never dry shave with a manual, safety or straight razor, ever.  For those using electric shavers you can ignore this advice as it is better to have the hairs stiff and pointing out from your skin.

5) Moisturize

Your skin is vulnerable and prone to dryness after shaving, so give it a helping hand by applying a natural moisturizer.

Onto the ultimate gifts for men with beards…

20 Beard Grooming Gifts Every Beard Lover Should Own

1. Wild Boar Bristle Beard Brush

What Is a Beard Brush?

The tug-of-war over which kind of hair is best for shaving brushes rages on. Some say badger hair is best, and while we don’t refute that badger hair shaving brushes are exceptional, we just love the look and feel of wild boar bristles. These hardy creatures spend their time roughing it among some of the most rugged terrain in the world, making their hair more than capable of standing up to even the toughest stubble.

Why Groom+Style Loves the Wild Boar Beard Brush

Wild boar bristle brushes are extremely long-lasting, and do a great job of lifting the hair away from the face, so that it can be effectively and evenly cut. Plus, because the bristles are natural, there’s less chance of irritation, like the kind which can occur with synthetic brushes.

Perfect for…

Ideal for shorter beards and those who shave on a daily or bi-daily basis. Beard brushes are designed to lift hair away from the skin, making cutting easier and more even.

2. A.P. Donovan – Excellent 7/8″ straight razor – mahogany handle with strop and wax

What is a Straight Razor?

This beautiful straight razor set is a fine introduction to the world of straight razor shaving. A straight razor shave from a traditional barber was standard back in the day, when the sound of sharpening steel on a leather strop would have been commonplace. Recreate the good old days and, with a bit of practice, get the closest shave of your life.

Why Groom+Style Loves a Good Old Fashion Straight Razor

Nostalgia, for sure, but also because a straight razor shave is the closest, cleanest shave there is.

Perfect for…

The traditionalist on the lookout for a clean, close shave.

3. Bevel Safety Razor

What is a Safety Razor?

A step to the right of a traditional straight razor, the safety razor gives a shave that’s just as close, without the Sweeney Todd hazards of a cut throat. The Bevel Safety Razor is a classic in terms of both design and performance.

Why Groom+Style Loves a High Quality Safety Razor

Apart from being an absolute style icon, the Bevel safety razor gives one of the smoothest, most satisfying shaves you’ll ever encounter. Slip in a new blade when the old one gets dull, and you’re well on your way to a shave your granddaddy would be proud of.

Perfect for…

Ultra-close shaving and/or beard shaping at the edges.

4. Barbasol Original Thick and Rich Cream Men Shaving Cream

What Is Barbasol Original Thick Shaving Cream and Why Is It So Special?

As America’s #1 shaving cream, Barbasol, established in 1919, is the ultimate in thick and luxurious shaving foam. Providing the most comfortable shave around, Barbasol shaving cream also helps to reduce instances of razor burn and irritation.

Why Groom+Style Loves Barbasol Shaving Cream

Barbasol is straight-up America in a can, and we just love it for that.

Perfect for…

Getting the perfect shave, and for reducing irritation caused by razor burns.

5. Cut Buddy Multi Curve Beard Shaping Tool

What is the Cut Buddy?

If you’re a guy who takes pride in the details, then you’ll love the Cut Buddy. Designed to help maintain pristine edges on the cheeks, neck and sideburns, the Cut Buddy is a simple but effective template tool for guiding your razor or trimmer exactly where it needs to go. No more asymmetrical facial hair, no more guessing games.

Why Groom+Style Loves this Innovative Beard Shaping Tool 

It might feel a little dorky at first, but once you get used to it, once you see the difference it makes, you’ll never shave without it.

Perfect for…

Short and long beards, wherever perfect shaping is desired.

6. Beard King Official Beard Bib

What is the Beard Kind Beard Bib?

As seen on Shark Tank, it’s a wonder nobody came up with something as useful and necessary as the Beard Bib before. There is not a guy on this planet who enjoys cleaning up the sink after shaving. Beard Bib is the answer. Simply attach the bib to the wall in front of your mirror, and it’ll catch everything that comes off of your face. Awesome.

Why Groom+Style Loves This Type of Bib

No more timely, annoying clean-up post-shave.

Perfect for…

Keeping your bathroom neat and tidy.

7. Polished Gentleman Beard Growth and Thickening Shampoo

What is This Magic Serum?

Not every guy grows a full, thick beard. Not every guy wants a full, thick beard. For those who do, however, there are solutions. Polished Gentleman’s offering is packed with fruit and plant extracts to help soften hair and encourage healthy growth.

Why Groom+Style Loves This Beard Shampoo

It smells great, and makes your beard look and feel wonderful.

Perfect for…

Guys looking for a thicker, fuller beard, and anyone in need of a great conditioner.

8. The Gentlemen’s Beard Oil and Conditioner Softener

What is This Magic Oil?

There are a ton of beard oil and conditioning products out there, and plenty of them are good enough. The Gentlemen’s Beard Oil is a strong contender, loaded with plenty of natural oils to help soften hair without making it greasy.

Why Groom+Style Loves This Beard Oil

An unfussy beard oil made with good ingredients, which doesn’t make hair or skin greasy.

Perfect for…

Longer beards and those with dry skin.

9. Philips Norelco Multigroom 3100 with 5 attachments

What is This Multigroomer?

There are a lot of electric beard trimming kits out there, and indeed, Groom+Style has reviewed plenty of them. The Philips Norelco is one of our recent favorites, and comes with guides for longer beard types, as well as shaping tools. One of the most recommended beard shavers is the Philips Norelco bt928541.

Why Groom+Style Loves This Beard Trimmer

Holds its charge well, and comes with a nose hair trimmer!

Perfect for…

Experimenting with your beard style and length.

10. Soft and Shine Beard Brush & Comb Set

What is This Beard Brush and Comb Set?

Just like the hair on your head, your beard can be tamed into looking and feeling softer, more manageable. This neat little brush set is ideal for those with longer beards, in need of some calming down.

Why Groom+Style Loves This Stylish Set…

It’s surprisingly difficult to find a decent beard brush in stores, and this set answers all of the most demanding requirements.

Perfect for…

Longer beards in need of some TLC.

11. The Beard Ninja Shaping Tool and Template

What is The Beard Ninja?

Just like the Cut Buddy, the Beard Ninja is designed to help shape your beard exactly the way you want it. Plenty of ways to get creative with this little beauty.

Why Groom+Style Loves This Beard Shaping Tool…

Unlike the Cut Buddy, the Beard Ninja is transparent, allowing you to keep track of the beard underneath the guide at the same time.

Perfect for…

Shaping and maintaining beard edges, either long or short styles.

12. Godefroy Thick Beard and Mustache Growth Serum

What Do Those People Who Have Patchy Beards Do?

These beard thickeners and growth serums sound like a scam, but actually, ones we love, like Godefroy do have some pretty decent effects. Not only is this stuff great for encouraging growth, it also helps reduce dry and itchy skin.

Why Groom+Style Loves This Beard Thickener…

Even if you don’t see the results you were expecting, you’ll have softer, less dry skin.

Perfect for…

Filling in patchy beards.

13. Kent 81T- Men’s Handmade Beard/Moustache Comb

What is this Handmade Beard Comb Good For?

Every Movember, the guys give away little combs for bros and their Mos. The Kent is a beautiful little moustache comb, designed to keep your furry friend in check.

Why Groom+Style Loves it…

It’s so damn cute.

Perfect for…

Both beard and moustache.

14. TRYM II – The Rechargeable Modern Hair Clipper Kit

What Is This Stylish Trimmer?

This little guy stayed well under the radar for a long time, until people started noticing how great it was. Ultra sleek design, paired with razor sharp trimming. We love the Trym II.

Why Groom+Style Loves the TRYM II…

Compact and ultra-stylish, cuts like a dream.

Perfect for…

Everyday beard maintenance.

15. Curveball: Bakblade “Big Mouth” Back Shaver

What Is a Back Beard- and How to Tame It?

Is your back hair (or your partners) starting to look like a lion’s mane?  Then you need this handy handled shaver for your back beard – quick. Hooray!

Groom+Style’s War on Back Hair…

We’re not big fans of back hair, so anything we can find to remove it, we’ll share with you.

Perfect for…

Hairy backs.

16. Craft Beard Professional Beard Scissors

What Makes the Professional Beard Scissors So Special?

Ever tried to trim your beard with regular scissors? It’s daunting, and the results are usually less than satisfactory. These super sharp little shears are perfect for getting into the small spots regular scissors just can’t.

Why Groom+Style loves Them…

They’re sharp, really sharp.

Perfect for…

Maintaining and shaping longer beards.

17. Sweet Almond Oil

What Is Sweet Almond Oil Good For?

For the purists, who won’t touch mixtures of oils, balms and what have you, there’s sweet almond oil. Perfect for both skin and hair. Apply just a little after showering and you’re good to go.

Why Groom+Style Loves this Natural Product…

All-natural and great for your skin, too.

Perfect for…

Both skin and hair.

18. Detroit Grooming Co. Grooming Oil – Corktown

What, Another Beard Oil?

If you’re someone who shaves regularly, with a short to medium beard, then conditioning can be a problem, just like with head hair. The Detroit Grooming Co. offers one of our favorite conditioning oils for all beard types.

Why Groom+Style Loves it…

Straightforward, non-greasy conditioning for your skin and hair.

Perfect for…

Short to medium length beards.

19. Detroit Grooming Co. – Beard Butter 2Oz

What is Beard Butter?

Essentially, a heavy duty conditioner for very dry beards. Not recommended for long beards, but for shorter styles on top of dry skin, this beard butter is a joy.

Why Groom+Style Loves it…

Butter is perhaps a bit misleading. This stuff is moisturizing, without being greasy or heavy.

Perfect for…

Beards on top of dry skin.

20. 100% Organic Sandalwood Beard Oil

What, Yet Another Beard Oil?

Just like the sweet almond oil, sandalwood oil is a perfect choice for the beard purist. A light, masculine fragrance are one of the many plusses of choosing sandalwood oil as your conditioner of choice.

Why Groom+Style Loves This Great Smelling Oil…

Doesn’t get more manly than this.

Perfect for…

All beard lengths and types.

Wrapping up the Best Beard Product List for Beard Lovers

Whatever your beard type, whatever your style, finding the right products to keep both your skin and facial hair healthy is super important. You live with that face of yours every single day, so learning to love it, and learning how to take care of it properly, to highlight your best features, should be a priority.

We hope that you found something on this list that you love, and that whatever you’ve chosen helps to give you back that edge. Drop a comment below and tell us what your favorite beard products are, and let us know how you got on using any of the stuff we’ve mentioned in this article.

For more on shaving, visit the Art of Shaving section at Groom+Style, or if you like the ideas above but want them packaged in a kit, then you can check out our list of the top 5 best beard grooming kits.

A shaved man is a growing trend in men’s grooming, and that includes shaving the legs. Of course, maintaining the leg hair isn’t just about men shaving their legs, it can also include trimming or waxing.

If you ask most men if it is weird for a guy to shave their legs, they’ll most likely bring up athletes shaving for sports, including bicycling, swimming, and body-building. Who would think that smooth legs are becoming a more popular aesthetic decision for men?

Why Do Men Shave Legs Hair?

Do men shave their legs? Indeed, they do. There are a few reasons that a man would want to remove his leg hair. This decision ranges from sex appeal to a sports advantage, and some men find that they simply prefer it.

According to a poll in Men’s Health asking should guys shave their legs, 33 percent of poll participants reported trimming, and 15 percent say they shave their legs frequently. That means almost half the poll respondents said that they perform some sort of leg maintenance, whether they shave completely with a razor or trim a little.

Maintained legs also get positive responses from women. A poll in Women’s Health found that 28 percent of women enjoy when a man trims his leg hair, and 22 percent enjoy clean-shaven legs. Keep in mind that, while it may be more than you expected, it’s still not everybody. Many women will prefer men with natural or hairy legs. There are many women who think it’s weird when a man shaves his legs.

When people wonder why would a man shave his legs, their first answer normally is related to sports. There are a lot of contradictory thoughts on whether a hairy body will make you measurably less aerodynamic. However, if you’re running a close race, most people won’t want to leave it to chance.

Close shaves are primarily common with bicyclists, swimmers, and body-builders. These certainly aren’t the only sport where an athlete could find it advantageous to shave their legs, either. Men who shave their legs for specific sports tournaments or competitions often find that they get used to smooth legs and continue to shave them long term. Some people just prefer how it feels.

There are medical reasons for shaved legs as well. Hair might be in the way of a wound healing. It could also be that you need to use a topical treatment that’s more effective without all that hair getting in the way. Or for those that need to undergo a medical treatment that shaves half of their leg, they might prefer to even themselves out by shaving the rest.

For many guys, a little trim is all that’s needed. It’s not about having clean-shaven legs. Instead these men prefer to remove thick or unruly hair on their legs. This helps to avoid bushy, long, or unkempt hairs. Guys who trim most often use electric clippers to get the job done. While it may add more work to your hair management and grooming routines, it can help to show off the defined muscles of your legs. It’s also easier and requires less skin maintenance than shaving with razors, which requires moisturizer cream and a more frequent routine.

Pros and Cons of Men Shave Legs

We can talk pros and cons for ages, but the most important thing is whether you like it or not. If you like your legs shaved or trimmed, then by all means do it. If you don’t enjoy your legs trimmed or shaved, then it’s certainly not necessary for you.

Still don’t know where you stand? Here’s what to consider before shaving your legs: the good and the bad.

Pros

• It helps to show off your tattoo artwork. What’s the fun of having a tattoo on your leg if the design is obscured by bushy leg hair? Most tattoos artists will require you to shave the skin in that area of your leg to get the tattoo. Then, when it’s time to let it show, most men feel it’s worthwhile to remove the hair and give their ink a clear display.
• Leg shaving is manscaping and can provide sex appeal. As we mentioned above, some women have said that they prefer a man with clean-shaven legs. This is a conversation you can have with your potential partner. And if you’re the sort of person wondering should guys shave their feet, it will likely do more good than harm. Of course, you need to be comfortable in your own body, and how you maintain it shouldn’t be determined entirely by others.
• Let yourself show off the labors of your workout. A lot of hair can make it more difficult to see the definition of your muscles. This is why many bodybuilders remove chest hair and leg. If you’re working out to make your body look better, hair maintenance can help you really enjoy those gains and draw attention to the muscles that you’re working hard to develop.

Cons

• It takes time, money, and maintenance. Shaved legs are something that you have to keep up with and maintain with consistent shaving and moisturizer. One major downside of shaving is the cost of razors, which can add up when you’re shaving frequently. Leg hair can be very uncomfortable as it grows back in for both you and your romantic partner. If you want it to feel good, you’ve got to keep up with it.
• It can make you appear fussy or high maintenance. You’re not going to be fooling anyone. If you shave your hairy legs, you let people know that you’re working to maintain your body hair. Women know that this bit of maintenance in particular can be time-consuming and at times unpleasant. Some will be into it, but it might also make you appear high-maintenance.
• Many women think it’s odd. Everyone prefers different things. There will always be women who won’t want their partner to have smooth legs. The thing is, if you enjoy your legs that way, this might be something you can work out in different ways with your partner, or it might be a sign that you need to attract another type of potential person. One thing to consider is that if you’re only shaving your legs for the sex appeal, it might backfire on you.

Mistakes to Avoid When Men Shave Legs

Many guys aren’t familiar with using razors on their body hair. One important thing to remember to keep razor shaving from becoming a painful process is to always moisturize afterwards. Let’s face it, if you want a close shave, you’re going to risk ingrown hairs. Dry, fragile, or broken-out skin won’t give you the look you want. Always consider your health when you use razors, and make sure to use moisturizer.

• Not Following a Schedule – When you start maintenance and grooming, it will be much easier to have a schedule or basic routine. This keeps the manscaping from being a chore. Don’t worry, though. It’s not the end of the world if you’re a day late shaving.
• Shaving Thick Hair Without Trimming it Down – If you’re shaving thick leg hair for the first time, you should always start with a trim. Shaving thick hair down to the sticks can be frustrating. Trimming can get you started with a shaving routine. Start with a longer trim to determine your preference, and work your way closer to the skin as you like.
• Don’t Be Shy About Using Lotion – Lotions and moisturizing cream are important for healthy skin. Once you shave, the razor removes layers of skin cells. Additionally, you’re exposing the skin to the air without the hair to help keep natural oils on your skin. Lotion replaces these oils and softens the skin to avoid ingrown hairs and itchy legs. Opt for an unscented lotion with high-quality oils and ingredients.
• Waiting too long between shaving – Unless you intend to grow your leg hair back out, it’s best to not wait too long between leg shaving. The first time you shave your legs will be the most time-consuming. However, if you keep up with frequent shaving, it becomes much quicker. In this case, you simply need to remove the stubble for a close cut. The longer you wait, the thicker the hair will grow, and the more tedious each shave will be.

What About Other Types of Hair Removal?

Not all maintenance solutions will be best for all legs. Your ideal leg hair maintenance will depend on the thickness and length of your leg hair, as well as what you’re willing to put into your grooming routine. If you have very thick leg hair, you might prefer more aggressive leg hair maintenance, either trimming or shaving, to show off your muscled calves. On the other hand, those with lighter or thinner hair may not need to do too much.

Trimming

Trimming is a lower maintenance option for taming thick leg hair without having to commit to the near constant maintenance of shaving.

Electric clippers or trimmers like Manscaped The Lawn 4.0 are necessary for leg hair trimming, and the idea is to simply cut the hair down to a more manageable length. This will help to make the hair appear less dense as well. Trimming is one cost-efficient method, once you purchase the clippers. It’s also quick, and you’ll likely only need to do it about once a week.

Everyone will have their own ideal length, but trimming down to about half an inch is a good place to start for natural-looking leg hair. Trimming your hair too short can make it rough or prickly like stubble.

Waxing

Professional waxing can be much more expensive than shaving, but many salons will give you spa treatment while you do it. The good thing about waxing your legs is that it lasts longer than shaving since wax removes the hair from the follicle. This means that the hair won’t grow back in the next couple of days. You will likely only need to wax every two weeks at most, and some men can go a whole month between wax appointments. One downfall of waxing is that it can be quite painful.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is an option for your legs, but it can be very expensive. You will need multiple sessions if you want to significantly decrease the amount of hair that grows on your legs. This method also is more effective with darker hair; though, there are some options for fair hair that professionals can help you decide on. On the plus side, it’s permanent, so if you’re sure about bare legs, you won’t have to worry about it again.

How Often Should You Do It?

The frequency of your leg shaving or trimming routine partly depends on why you’re doing it.

If you shave your legs as an athlete to get ready for a competition, then you might only shave them right before and throughout the competition. If, however, you want bare legs for longer to show off your bodybuilding gains, then it’s best to shave frequently.

To keep it smooth, you should use the razor, on average, every other day. Additionally, moisturize daily to make sure that the shaving process does not become uncomfortable.

If you’re opting to trim your leg hair, you can use the trimmer less frequently. Many men only need to trim about once a week, depending on how quickly your leg hair grows out. For some, it can even be a bi-weekly event, since its main purpose is to maintain the leg hair and keep it from being too thick and unruly.

Shaving or trimming your legs can be a great source of self-esteem to help you look your best. Here’s the thing, though, once you begin shaving your legs, you start drawing attention to them. Many men prefer to get their legs in shape before they start drawing that kind of attention. Of course, this could all be part of a larger plan to get in shape to feel and look your best.

Men searching for an all-in-one grooming solution have found what they are looking for with the Philips Bodygroom Series 7100 BG2040 / TT2040.    It is an ideal grooming tool for people of all ages, especially men who may be reaching that age where less hair is growing where it is wanted (on your head) and more is growing in places where it is not wanted (ears, back, etc).  The popularity of the all-in-one grooming tool has soared in the past few years.  Men are more self-conscious when faced with the prospect of putting on a swimsuit and hitting the beach.  Here are a few things you need to know about this product before taking the plunge and making a purchase.

The Evolution of Grooming Tools for Men

Styles for men, as well as women, have changed drastically over the past century.  Commercial shavers for men have been available for over a century, and it is interesting how the products have changed over the years.  The first safety razors were made available to the public at the start of the 20^th Century, and they allowed men to groom themselves, saving money, rather than visiting the local barber.  By World War II, a shaving kit was part of every soldier’s backpack.  Now, many men spend as much, or more, money than women on grooming products.  However, with the advent of an all-in-one groomer men have the choice of buying a single all round product rather than multiple tools.

What Can an All-in-one Groomer Do For Me? 

Top of the line all-in-one groomers can do a number of grooming jobs for you – and do them in an efficient and effective manner.  The Philips Bodygroom BG2040 / TT2040 has a 3D pivoting head that allows it to closely follow the contour of your body for an ultra-close shave that cannot be had with a conventional electric razor.  This body groomer also has a high performance trimmer with rounded blades that prevents scratching and pinching of your skin and can reach a number of “hard to reach” places.

The Philips Norelco is water-resistant so it can be used in the shower, and has a number of length settings so you can trim to your ideal length.  It is cordless and therefore easy to use, and can run for up to 50 minutes at a time between charges.  It is ergonomically built and has self-sharpening blades that never need any maintenance or lubrication.  

What Do Users of the BG2040 Have to Say About It? 

One of the best things about internet shopping is not the convenience of shopping from the comfort of your own home, but having the ability to research a product and see what others have to say about it.  If you are shopping for an all-in-one groomer, you have a number of reviews located at Amazon.com.  A quick search will find the Philips BG2040 has a large number of reviews the majority of them being the highest or 5-star ratings. 

Users of the product who may have been skeptical before they purchased the product were pleased when trimming their beards, or anywhere that needed trimming below the neck.  Many users also praised the five length settings, making it easy to either shave off all offending hair or to tidy things up nicely.  The ability to use it in the shower also went over well with the vast majority of users.  Many men also reported it is easy and safe to use around the most sensitive of body parts and the ergonomic handles ensures there is no chance of it slipping and accidently cutting something it should not.

Concerns About the Product You Should Be Aware Of 

There were a handful of negative reviews of the product, with some users reporting it was not as effective as they would have liked or that it sometimes scratched their skin.  Others complained about the quality of the product and noted that it failed after a short period of use.  However, with the 2 year warranty this should be less of a concern.

The Bottom Line 

For men who are looking for a quality, below the neck, all-in-one groomer, the Philips Bodygroom BG2040 / TT2040 is a solid choice. It is made by a manufacturer in good standing and is a must-have product for anyone who cares about how they look at the beach or by the poolside for those summer cookouts (on your top of the range gas grill) and parties.  It is safe, easy to use, and convenient, a groomer that will not slow down your morning routine.

Follow this link to read Groom+Style’s updated review of the Top 5 Best Body Groomers For Men and Norelco Sensotouch.

Wet shaving is having a renaissance, as modern men are trading in their quick, electric dry shaves for the slower self-care of wet shaving.

Yes, wet shaving takes time. But you will be rewarded with a closer shave and possibly even less skin irritation.

If you’re interested in the benefits of a wet shave, don’t stress about the wet shaving supplies – everything you need is explained below.

The wet shaving process is relatively simple. You wet your skin with water, making it soft. You might plan your shaving after a hot shower for even softer skin. Add on shaving soap, cream, or butter to help raise the hairs and using easy movements glide the blade across your skin. Finish with a splash of water and some aftershave, and you’ll be fresh and ready for your day.

Safety, Cartridge, or Straight Razor

Picking a razor type will help you determine all the other supplies that you need for your wet shaving kit.

When most men switch to a wet shave, they will generally do away with their multi-blade (cartridge) razors. Razor cartridges are much more expensive than using a safety or straight razor.

Wet shave enthusiasts also claim that multiple blades are more likely to irritate your skin and cause ingrown hairs.

If you trust in the art of shaving with a single blade, then you’ll need to determine which design is best suited for your lifestyle. A safety razor is an excellent choice for beginners venturing into wet shaving. If you’ve decided to retire your electric razor and desire a truly satisfying, close shave, we highly recommend starting with a safety razor. On the other hand, straight razors provide the closest shave imaginable but require some skill to master.

Safety razors have two parts. You have the head that houses the replaceable, double-sided razor, and the handle.

One of the benefits of a safety razor is its versatility.

You can change out different kinds of razor blades to find one that works best for your skin and facial hair type. You can even get a blade sample pack to try out a variety of blades.

Straight razors make an art from the practice of shaving. These take skill, control, and practice. This is old-fashioned shaving with a single, very sharp exposed blade.

You will need to sharpen your blade with a strop and hone it every once in a while, but the upside is you will only need one (although a lot of straight razor enthusiasts end up with a collection of straight razors).

Groom+Style has written a comprehensive article comparing the differences between straight and safety razors.

Soap, Cream, or Butter

First off, ditch the canned gels and foams.

Even the ones that claim to be moisturizing only do a fraction of what they need to do. When you pick a shaving soap, you’ll have more control over the ingredients you put on your skin.

Most chemicals listed on the soap bottle or cream can are only there to preserve and stabilize the soap itself. In contrast, most botanicals and naturals available in bar soaps actually help your skin to heal and to remain soft and smooth.

The soap or cream’s lather should raise the hairs away from the skin. This makes it easier to get a close shave, as your razor can then make direct contact with the skin and cut away the hairs. It also prevents ingrown hairs by making it less likely that the hairs will replant themselves into the skin.

In bar form, shaving soap will last much longer than a can of shaving cream, but it takes more time and work to build the same amount of lather.

A shaving cream already contains some water, so that when you create that lather it foams much quicker. Cans of shaving cream are quickly used up, increasing your cost per shave.

Soaps and creams are compatible with any kind of razor and are necessary for using a safety razor or straight blade.

Shave butter is most compatible with multi-blade cartridge razors. When you opt for shaving butter, you are only getting the lubricating quality without the foaming ability to raise the hairs.

Shaving butter will also continue to moisturize your skin after the shave. Try using it as a preshave underneath your usual shaving soap or cream, and feel the blade glide over your skin like you have never felt before.

Have sensitive skin? No shame, just make sure to check the ingredients on the soap you buy.

If it has added scents or fragrances, it probably won’t do you any favors. And just like with all your other skin care, check to see that there aren’t any alcohols that could dry your skin or irritate your pores.

Facial Brushes

Shaving brushes are those delightful tools that you swirl in your soap or cream to work up a lather. Putting your lather directly onto your face with a shaving brush will help to lift the hairs for a close shave.

They can be made from badger hair, horse hair, synthetic hair, or boar hair. Use a softer brush for shaving creams and firmer bristles for shaving soaps. When you’re done using your brush, rinse it and flick out the excess water. Dry the brush upside down to best preserve it. A brush that is taken care of can last years.

You can use a mug, saucer, or just about anything to swirl your brush in the lather, but most men opt for a nice bowl dedicated to this purpose. This is part of the style of the wet shave, so treat yourself and pick out a quality brush.

Aftershave

Most men will finish off their wet shave routine with a splash of cold water and aftershave to close the pores.

Choose aftershaves with natural ingredients like witch hazel to help prevent infections from cuts.

Watch out for aftershaves that contain alcohol, as these can cause irritation and have the potential to dry your skin. Aftershave is usually scented, but the fragrance is often just a hint, only discernable to someone standing right next to you.

If you have sensitive skin, though, you might wish to look for one that doesn’t contain a fragrance.

Other Supplies to Make Your Shaving Life Easier

While having a great razor, shaving soap, brush, and aftershave are essential wet shaving supplies, there are a few other odds and ends to have in your shaving kit.

Some men swear by a preshave.

Preshaves go on before the shaving cream or soap to create a smoother surface so that your razor doesn’t drag. Preshaves can take the form of a shave butter (which was mentioned earlier in the article) or oil.

This can also come in the form of a skin cleanser, to help you clean dirt and oil from your skin before you open your pores with hot water and start the shaving process. 

Just because you’re shaving doesn’t mean you’re taking all the hair off. If you’re growing a beard on part of your face, you’ll find beard oil to be a good investment.

It keeps your beard soft and the skin below it healthy. As you can’t always count on your facial hair to grow in the perfect shape, a tub of mustache or beard wax will allow you to style it the way you want.

The main thing is to try out new products and techniques to find the shaving ritual that is best for you. Good luck with your new shaving routine, and let us know if you have thoughts on these suggestions!