The classic wet shave is making a comeback – and for good reason. It is thorough, gentle on the skin, and turns the daily chore into a little ritual. But which razor is right for you, what distinguishes a badger hair shaving brush from a vegan brush, and how do you master your first wet shave? In this guide, you will find out everything you need to get started.
What do I need for a wet shave?
- A razor: A cartridge razor with replaceable blades or a classic safety razor.
- A shaving brush: It whips shaving soap or shaving cream into a creamy lather.
- Shaving soap or shaving cream: They nourish the skin and allow the blade to glide smoothly.
- A bowl or mug: for whipping up the lather.
- Optional shaving stand: to keep the brush and razor neatly and dry.
Cartridge razor or safety razor?
Cartridge razor with replaceable blades
A cartridge razor uses interchangeable heads, like those available in any drugstore. It is particularly beginner-friendly because the blades are mounted on pivots and adapt to the shape of the face. Our wet razors K2, WATZMANN and MAKALU use standard Mach3 blades, and the K2 and WATZMANN are also available for Fusion blades. The olive wood handle makes the difference: It feels warm and full in the hand.
Safety razor
The safety razor is the classic from your grandfather's time. It uses a simple, double-edged blade that is very affordable and produces little waste. Shaving requires a little practice because you have to guide the angle yourself, but it rewards you with a very thorough result. Our KLASSIK safety razor with K2 handle and Watzmann Luxury handle have a closed comb – ideal for beginners.
Shaving brush: Badger hair or vegan?
Badger hair is the traditional material for high-quality shaving brushes. It absorbs a lot of water and produces a particularly creamy lather. Vegan shaving brushes with synthetic hair have caught up significantly in recent years: They are soft, dry faster, and do not use animal materials. Our SIR GEORGE shaving brush is available in both versions, including the LUXURY shaving brush with vegan bristles.
Step by step to the perfect wet shave
- Prepare the skin: Wash your face with warm water or shave after showering – the warmth softens the beard hairs.
- Wet the brush: Briefly dip the shaving brush in warm water and squeeze out lightly.
- Whip up a lather: Use circular motions in a shaving mug or directly on the soap to whip up a lather until it is creamy and glossy.
- Apply the lather: Apply to damp skin with the brush – this additionally lifts the hairs.
- Shave with the grain: First in the direction of growth, without pressure. If necessary, re-lather and shave across the grain.
- Rinse with cold water: Cold water closes the pores, then apply a mild aftershave balm.
How to care for your razor and brush
- Rinse the shaving brush thoroughly after every shave, shake it out, and let it dry upright or with the bristles facing down.
- Rinse the blades after use and let them dry, and replace them regularly.
- Occasionally care for the olive wood handle with a little oil – this keeps the grain beautiful. Find out more in our care instructions.
- A shaving stand or brush holder ensures that everything stays neat and dry.
The right shaving set as a gift
If you want to make getting started easy for yourself (or someone else), go for a set. The 4-piece KLASSIK shaving set consists of a stand, a wet razor, the SIR GEORGE shaving brush, and a porcelain bowl. More compact is the DESIGN PLUS shaving set with a brush holder and shaving brush.
Frequently asked questions about wet shaving
Is wet shaving better for sensitive skin?
Many people with sensitive skin tolerate wet shaving with a good lather and sharp blade better than dry shaving. Good preparation and little pressure are important.
How long does a shaving brush last?
Many years with proper care. It is important to rinse the brush thoroughly after every shave and let it dry.
Do I need shaving soap or is shaving gel enough?
Shaving soap and shaving cream are suitable for the shaving brush. Gel from a can is applied without a brush.
👉 You will find everything for the classic wet shave in our shaving category.