Chances are you learned how to shave using a disposable cartridge razor. Not only did I learn with one, but I continued to shave with disposable razors well into my late-twenties.
Not that there’s anything wrong with that. There are plenty of advantages to shaving with cartridge razors, convenience and ease of use come to mind. Even electric shavers have their advantages as a quick and easy method of getting the job done.
So what about the wet shave? Why do most men not learn about this until much later in life? Well for one, marketing from the big guns. Gillette or Schick ring a bell? And two, it’s got a bit of a learning curve that most guys aren’t up to the task.
I’m at the point in my life that it’s time to learn the art of the wet shave. And so I was excited when KC Shave Co. reached out and offered to send me a premium shave kit along with razors, pre-shave oil and solid cologne.
In the video below I give my initial impressions as I unboxed the safety razor kit.
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WHAT’S IN THE BOX
Inside each box you’ll find a safety razor, shave brush and shave soap. Mine also included a cartridge of 10 double-edged replacement razors, mahogany scented pre-shave oil and a small tin of solid cologne.
SAFETY RAZOR
KC Shave Co.’s safety razor handle is solid and heavy weighted, which provides a nice balance for an easier shave. It has a closed design optimized for safety with room to adjust the razor angle.
The safety razor comes in a leather carrying case and can hang from the razor stand when not in use.
SHAVE BRUSH
The KC Shave Co. signature shaving brush has soft synthetic fibers that feel similar to badger hair. Like the safety razor, the shave brush has a substantial weight to it.
The purpose of the shave brush is to create a lather with the shave soap. It helps to exfoliate the skin and get your facial hair to stand up for the perfect wet shave. When not in use, the pure badger brush hangs from the razor and brush stand.
SHAVE SOAP
When I opened the tin can the scent was powerful and masculine. Shave soap has the advantage over shaving cream in that it provides hydration for your face and removes your natural oils for a cleaner shave.
Scent Profile: (according to KC Shave Co.’s website)
This deep, rich woody scent has notes of Italian Bergamot, Applewood, and Tonka Bean to round out the darker, more sensuous Patchouli, Cedarwood, and Oakmoss. To keep this fragrance from smelling like a freshly cut wood floor, we’ve added spices of Cardamom, Vanilla Bourbon, and allspice. This scent is one of sophistication and verve.
Organic Ingredients:
- Shea Butter
- Coconut Oil
- Palm Oil
- Safflower Oil
- Sorbitan oleate (emulsifier)
- Oat protein
- Wheat Protein (conditioner)
PRE-SHAVE OIL
I’ve never used a pre-shave oil before. I don’t have much facial hair to begin with and growing a beard is out of the question and so it’s never been a necessity.
I do, however occasionally encounter irritation as I’m sure all men have experienced post-shave burning sensations. It looks like pre-shave oil helps to hydrate and condition the skin, allowing for a much smoother shave and less skin irritation as a result.
Organic Ingredients:
- Grapeseed oil
- Meadowfoam seed oil
- Organic olive oil
- Cranberry seed oil
SOLID COLOGNE
To be honest, I didn’t realize that solid cologne was a thing before receiving this KC Shave Co. package. Apparently it’s a hot trend in the men’s grooming space.
As with the mahogany shave soap, the barbershop fresh scent has masculine tones. It’s super compact, therefore, perfect for travels. Just slip it in the dopp kit and you’ll be good to go.
REPLACEMENT BLADES
These blades are flexible and immensely sharp. They easily fit into the double-edged safety razor. Derby razor blades are made with chromium-ceramic, platinum and tungsten.
WRAPPING UP
There you have it. A quick unboxing of KC Shave Co.’s premium shave kit. I’ll most likely document my wet shaving experience in a future blog post, so stay tuned for that.
A note: The products in this review were complimentary. These are all my thoughts and opinions based on my experience. Gentleman Within holds all control over editorial content.
ON TO YOU. DO YOU HAVE WET SHAVING EXPERIENCE?
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