I would have bailed on the pre shave oil and the Harry’s shaving cream and replaced it with the van der Hagen 4-piece shave gift set. It costs $24.99 and it comes with a brush,brush holder, bowl and an actual hard shave soap. So the gift set, plus the DE razor for $20.99 and the Nivea post shave balm, that would have put you at $52. Just barely over budget for a WAY more satisfying shave, in my opinion. 👍🏽
That was my first wet shaving set. I passed the mug down to my son when he started wet shaving along with the king handled VDH TTO. it works good with a sharp blade like the Bic chrome
yes also here in mexico you can buy this set and the razor is the same as the one he bought TTO twist too open ., the soap is very good for the price in the kit van der hagen
If you are not in a hurry to buy anything, I have come across some decent wet shaving supplies at discount stores such as the Ross/Marshall’s/TJ Maxx trio. I’ve found shaving soaps, shaving creams, pre-shave oils, after shave lotions for under $5 each, and safety razors such as Muhle for only $10-12. The only downside is that you find what they happen to have, so it’s not guaranteed they will have anything.
I started with just the king c Gillette razor and cremo shaving cream both from target because “it looked cool”, added a bowl and brush after a couple weeks and was hooked. That was 3 or 4 years ago now but it got me to love shaving instead of it being a chore I had to do for work
I started shaving in the 80's the ara of crocodile Dundee where a clean shaved man was expected to be able to light a match on his face and with that I'll wish you a giddy
I've shaved with the Van Der Hagen and I agree that it's a mild razor that's good for beginners. The Nivea balm is an absolute All Star because of how good and affordable the product is.
It’s fascinating how many different reactions are to the Van Dar Hagen razor; to me it was not mild at all. It literally was aggressive for my face, and I couldn’t get a shave without a cut. Yet others find it the opposite. I guess faces are different. To me it was very aggressive; faces must all experience different razors. People seem to either love or hate the Van Dar Hagen.
@@johnanderson3700 I think they change the blades recently I have no proof for it but they used to be so smooth for me and in the past few months it’s just so aggressive and they don’t work
Greetings from Romania! Here you can find a King C Gilette safety razor with 5 blades and a shaving gel from Gilette at only 10 euros. Pre shave from Proraso at 4 or 5 euros, shaving soap or creme ,also from Proraso at 4 to 7 euros and after shave Proraso with prices begining from 6 euros.
This is the kind of video that could help someone try wet shaving without spending a lot. Skip the shaving oil and Harry's cream. Shaving creams like Proraso make thick, cushiony brush lathers. I don't know if Target had any but there are under $15-20 synthetic brushes out there. Even a $2 can of Barbasol would be better than the Harry's cream. The bottom line is that there are better options available for beginners. I agree with you that a better razor would give the kind of shave that experienced wet shavers enjoy. And you can never go wrong with Nivea. Once a newbie gets hooked, the rabbit hole gets bigger 😉
I'd disagree with you on the Barbasol. It has zero slickness in.y experience. You'd be better off using cremo or a shave stick.. I don't think that Harry's will have anything decent as far as shaving cream is concerned.. Cremo is the best retail option..oh and would products sold at CVS are great for what they are..
Buy7ng thes things at a store is usually a mistake if you ask me. I have multiple of the razors he has and they were about a single dollar each. The same item. And you don't want cushioney things anyway, you need density that shields the skin and lubes it
I have a tube of Harry's. It's really good for lubeing the blade when your hair is really close. It's not supposed to lather. You need to constantly add water.
As an owner of an Ertan Suer that I purchased from Matt and years long wet shaver with a Cutthroat Gents straight razor from Amazon that it took months of work to bring into shaving condition, I have to say that I respect that Matt makes videos like this one.
my first DE was a van der hagen. they're pretty good for the money! pair an astra or gillette platinum with a good soap, and that's what got me into the hobby a few years back.
This was my first DE razor back when it was Rick from Pawn Stars. I got it at Bed Bath and Beyond for $19.99; so the price hasn’t changed in a decade. I got a VDH set with a bowl, brush, and puck. So, I got started for around $35.00 So glad I upgraded everything and started using Feather blades; which actually makes this cheap razor do a better job.
So I bought the Vander Hagen a few weeks ago, I really like it. I’ve tried the King C Gillette blades with it, and I just destroyed my face with those blades, so I’ve been using the Vander Hagen blades, and like them a lot. I am gonna purchase a blade test kit with a few different brands and see what razor works best.
I actually started my wet shaving journey with the Bevel kit. The Bevel shave cream is actually not bad, you do need to build the lather with the brush. The Bevel 3pcs razor is mild and did a good job. To this day I still use there balm, really like it. The Bevel kit was a good place to start. Sometimes you can find highly discounted at Target.
I applaud you for doing this. You run a business selling these items and you told people what they can get at a much lower price. For beginners that’s fantastic. Now, you did 50 dollars. How about 100 dollars out of your shop? Can it be done? Get the camera.
@@RazorEmporium By the way, I wasn’t trying to be a trolling dick. I was thinking more of a $100 video for those of us that are past the beginner stage but not yet pro level. I’ve been wet shaving a few years now, but still using a cartridge razor. I’d really appreciate video like that. Although, I have seen you recommending Merkur 34c for a starter. That’s probably what I’ll get, but I’ll admit, those DE razors scare me a little. They look like one wrong move and they’ll cut the shit right out of you. Help me, sensei.
Great video! I hope we get some converts. Put a Feather or Bic in that puppy and you would have a little better experience! I actually won't start a shave without my Shave Secret oil. I've been using it for years, and started with it during my cartridge days. It's thin and doesn't clog. I use only 10 drops and use it for insurance, even with my $20-$30 soaps. Cremo shave cream was great in my cartridge days, but once I started with Proraso Red and TOBS Sandalwood with a brush, there was no turning back. Once I discovered the Arko stick and shaved every day with it until it was done, tallow-based soaps are the only way! Slickness AND cushion. Now, I'm knee deep in artisanal soaps. Thanks again!
Both Nivea aftershave balms are absolutely worth looking into. Readily available quality products. The one you bought is lightly scented and doesn't contain alcohol, the other is a bit more "traditional" and intense with alcohol.
Nivia do multiple post shave balms, neither the "sensitive" (dark blue label on white background) or "sensitive cool" (light blue label on dark background) contain alcoholic (and are lightly scented). The same is true for their sensitive shaving gel. I've never tried their non "sensitive" products.
Fantastic video Matt! My oldest son started his wet shave journey with the Bevel razor, and he loves it, and yes, he uses cartridge razors too, but when he gets the time, he uses the Bevel, and just once, he used one of my Gillette Fatboys, and he said he has to get used to the feeling of it. But all in all, he’s all about using the brush, using his own soaps, and keeping it cheap. Thank you so much for this great video.
In Europe you can get an incredible kit for $50: Nom (Muhle) brush for $7, Proraso preshave, soap and aftershave for $17 and an original Muhle razor with a R89 head for $23. You add a pack of Wilkinson blades and you are set.
My wife bought a VDH kit - a brush, soap, the razor and in addition some of their shave butter, which is a shave cream and aftershave balm in one they claim and that was what i learned to DE shave with. The little brush i got was a synthetic and i still use that today now and then. It's a reasonably cheap method of starting to DE shave and if you decide to carry on at least you can get the basics of technique and lathering learned before dropping a bucket-load of cash on other products. That comes a bit later! T
When I started down this path 3 years ago. My first razor was a Rockwell R1 butterfly for $15. It is still in my rotation and I still get a great shave with it.
I started wetshaving by buying a Wilkinson Sword classic premium DE razor, at the time I was shaving using nivea shaving gel and to be honest this combo almost made me quit. I know this razor is fine for most people but for me each shave ended with ingrowing hairs, micro cuts or irritation no matter what blade and crazy expensive english shave cream i used. I saw a real difference when I bought the King C. Gillette and paired it with a feather blade. I have a very sensitive skin that is prone to irritation and nicking because of many allergies that I have. Surprisingly a very mild razor paired with an extremely sharp blade was the way for me to go. I have been wet shaving for over a year now, the transition from electric razors and cartridges was one of the best decisions in my life
Comment number 2: Have to add another comment because I can't wait for a new video to come out to say it. Just got my Rex Ambassador about an hour ago and had my first shave on setting 3 for face and 2 for neck and I am absolutely astonished at how amazing the razor felt and performed. Easily a DFS if not a near BBS shave with one pass. Awesome job, keep it up!
Ive used the Duke Cannon aftershave balm and i actually really enjoy it. I think its a eucalyptus and menthol product? Anyone else have any experience or recommend something a little higher quality that has the same qualities?
I started off with the Van Der Hagan razor and used it for a few weeks. It was extremely mild and worked okay. I quickly upgraded. However the Van Der Hagan soap has been something I still get because it just works so well, even with my aggressive razors.
Cremo will lather a bit more than Harry’s. Not as much as good shaving soap of course but it is slick and in my experience works for a quick shave. As does, btw, hair conditioner that does not lather. Neither need preshave product but hair conditioner works for that too. For me the most important part of wet shaving is the “wet” part - meaning the brush, soap, and water. The inexpensive boar brushes available locally work just fine - especially after breaking in. For a razor available when traveling or “stranded” the Gillette Skin Guard is excellent. Has two blades but spaced so as to not have hysteresis effect. (I like to use on Parker short metal travel handle but inexpensive combo handle and 1 or 2 carts almost always available for
I’ve been using Nivea balms for years! Awesome- I just started about 6 months ago with a d/e VanDerHagen - I have gotten several different razors since- never looked back
Bevel shave products are the best! If a race of men who are prone to getting razor burns, and bumps and ingrown hairs when they shave, can use the product and receive a clean soft face, then anybody can really benefit from it. Definitely superior in my opinion.
A pre-shave oil is a must for me. Less skin irritation and added smoothness. I only use my hands to apply my homemade shaving cream. Great shave results, repeatedly. ...Shavette, straight razor, and safety razor shaving is for "real men". True manliness! ...Also black men must shave "with the grain".
I had almost the same adventure My very first safety razor was the one with the pawnstars guy the Microtouch one or something like that. And I still use that Nivea every now and then if I have a soap with no matching splash or balm to go with it. Used that with canned goo for years then finally got a tub of proraso red and a shavette and that was it I was hooked.
Morning Matt. Thanks for showing those that say it’s to expensive to wet shave. Maybe you connected with a couple of people. Enjoy your weekend and be safe.
I actually did this a few weeks ago before I saw this video. I purchased a King C Gillette for about $30, and a Van Der Hagen bowl, brush, soap combo pack for about $15, and a bottle of Nivea aftershave balm. To be fair, the Van Der Hagen set was on sale, normally $25ish, but still think that’s about the minimum a guy could spend and get a true full experience into wet shaving. My experience has been very good so far. Good enough that I’ve crept a little further down the rabbit hole. I recently upgraded my brush from the boar hair that came with the Van Der Hagen set to a synthetic brush from Simpson. The T3. And I love it.
Hi Matt, I have become a dedicated customer at Razor Emporium. I have five different shave soaps from you: 1966, 1965, Proraso etc. All of which I enjoy changing to from time to time. My favorite razor from you so far, is the Henson Medium. BUT, I would very much appreciate hearing what your favorite shave soaps are. Perhaps I will try other from you and see if I like your selections better. Love wet shaving! You prior videos and great service will keep me as a regular customer. Thanks Matt?
Great video, Matt! I would have bought Cremo for the pre shave, instead of that Harry”s junk. I use it for a preshave, and it is REALLY slick. Nivea is always in my den. Thanks again for another awesome video.
The big box stores are definitely beginning to carry, or expand their selection of DE razors and wet shaving supplies. To my skin, a Flair Tip Super Speed is smoother than the Weishi. However, that doesn't make the Weishi a bad razor, just not as good overall imo. A badger shave brush with a quality shave soap will obliterate any canned goo or brushless cream, bar none. Cannot go wrong with Nivea. Fun and informative video!
When I was in Italy this is the kind of store where you get prorasso products, on the supermarket shelves. People just load them in their baskets. In the U.K. Nivea is held in high regard by medical professionals. When my father had skin grafts after an explosion at work he was instructed to use Nivea skin cream on his skin after the skin grafts were complete. Nivea is serious stuff, they know what they are doing.
Great video Matt! But tbh nothing beats a shave with the konsul razor. I have always had small irritation on my neck even after switching to DE razors. The konsul cleared all my issues and i never have to worry about getting irritation again. Thank you!
I just started wet shaving with DE razors a month ago. I bought the Bevel Shave Cream along with the Van der Hagen safety razor. After getting over the nicks and cuts of the first couple of days, I started getting some skill with it. I bought some Harry's Shave Cream a week or two later to try it. THUMBS DOWN! It's terrible! They must have a different purpose in mind for it, possibly to be used with their cartridge razors, (which I had been using for the past few years). I'll try other shave creams to see what I like best. The Bevel cream is fine for me for now--and I even bought the Bevel Safety Razor as well a couple of weeks in. I'm 68 and had never shaved with a DE Safety Razor in my life. (I had a beard from age 20 to 50. Prior to growing my beard, I used an electric shaver on the rare days I needed a shave, and upon shedding my beard at 50--done in a barbershop--I have used cartridge shavers.) I just got fed up with the process, particularly spreading shaving cream on my face with my hands. I first decided to get a shaving brush to take care of the hand application, and I quickly thought--"Why not try going totally old school?" I did and I find I am much more engaged in my daily shaving process, rather than just being faintly irritated by it, to the point of skipping days just to avoid the process. I now actively enjoy shaving.
The best pre-shave at the grocery store is Noxzema Classic cream ($4.69)! Van Der Hagen has a box with soap, bowl, brush, and stand all bundled together for $19.99. For a razor, I would go with the most expensive flexible disposable instead of a bad DE razor. Like the "BiC Flex4 Titanium Sensitive Men's Disposable Razors - 3ct" for $6.49
Harry's shave cream works well with a cartridge. Not meant to foam/lather and works well when using a multi-blade as it does not clog it. I use it when traveling by plane and carrying a cartridge. You can also use a lot less than you might think. It might have been better to use Barbasol for a DE shave. It is pretty nice for $2. I use the non-cooling version of the Nivea, regardless of what razor/blade I am using, and I love it.
I just realized that you’re a tall guy too! I’m 6’8” and I kept asking my wife “is that how I look when I’m in a store?” Lol. Glad to see that the t-shirt fits tall guys too *hint Cool video, have a good weekend
I bought a Van Der Hagen razor a few years back while I was traveling. I don't regret the purchase. My daily driver is either a Merkur Futur or a Merkur Progress razor. Occasionally I still use the Van Der Hagen with a more aggressive blade like a Kai or a Nacet. This is my weekend stubble remover. On a workday I generally use the Merkur progress with a Feather blade usually on setting 2. While at Target, I would have investigated the Bevel DE razor. And I would have looked for a package of good quality blades from their selection. I also would have looked for a preshave oil to soften the stubble. As I have a very course beard. For a shaving cream, away from home (and my shaving soap and brush) a can of Barbersol would be suitable for me.
Hi Mat. Nice video with you and Kensurfs the other day. I was gifted a Vikings Blade Chieftain Jr. safety razor with a pack Gillette Platinum de blades. Very comfortable shave. I am new to this De shaving. 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
As much as I complain about being able to get products locally at least one of our grocery stores sells Proraso green tubes for like $8. Thankfully we have online places like yours.
@@leehaseley2164 yeah and when your spending good money on a soap or aftershave it would be nice to actually smell it like at a physical location. Or hold a brush in your hand. I ordered a Simpson T2 brush online and although I love it I believe if I saw in person I’d probably get the larger T3.
I started with the Shave Butter & a CVS “Blade for men” razor. New name now but it’s similar to the Van Der Hagan. I also used Nivea shave gel which wasn’t bad. The blades that came with the razor weren’t great and I bought some online. Then I bought Proraso sandalwood. I was on my way.
I am still using a bevel razor. It’s very mild and I upgraded the razor blades with stuff from you. I still use shave cream because lathering doesn’t seem to give me the same protection cream does
Thanks for this I always wondered how the Harry’s shave cream would perform, but had the feeling that it would be the same as the outcome you got. This is a great video for those who are just getting into wet shaving though. Keep bringing us more! Thanks!
I have a yaqi clone of the razor you were holding at 1:28 and it’s actually very efficient, which you don’t really feel when you use it, but you do easily overshave with it if you don’t take care. I thought it was an ikon clone of days past? Maybe that would have gotten a better shave than the harry’s razor?
Nice review/challenge Matt. I agree shave oil just gunks things up and restricts glide so useless. Nivea balm is the standard. I use it regularly. Not top tier but solid. Van der Hagen hard soap and a vDH brush.
Good vid. Nivea has a shaving gel (I don't use gels but bought this one to try) and it lathers well....just add water and go home with it with a brush. I have 2 Van Der Hagen kits (probably for Christmas) they have that shave butter and paid $10 for all. And yes, Nivea balm is really good (even better than many expensive brands). Another great balm: AquaVelva 5in1
I do not use creams that often, but when I do, I also find that using a brush rather than my hands makes for a better lather. Like you said, it mixes better. It also depends on the cream. There are creams out there that create a fuller, richer, thicker lather. Harry's might not be the best. But when one is in a pinch...
Ive been using the van der hagen DE saftey razor with their blades. Ive recently pulled the trigger on castle forbes lavender shaving cream and after shave with a razor emporium badger brush. Im looking for a suggestion on a razor with better quality that doesnt break the bank and getting a sample pack of the mild razor blades or possibly more agressive blade from razor emporium. Also have been using the DE razor for over 8 months idk if thats important or not.
As there is no Target in Germany I replace this with the drugstore chain Müller, and as a specification, getting a cheap set for someone who wants to see, is wetshaving with a saftey razor for me, or getting an emergency kit. Razor: Wilkinson Classic (incl. 5 Blades) -> 2.95 € Soap: Speick Shaving Stick -> 3.15 € Brush: Aveo Men (own brand), pig bristle -> 2.99 € AS: Aveo After Shave Balm -> 2,95 € At all round 12 €, and it is quiete a decent experience, though I do not like the Wilkinson Blades. You can switch out the razor and the AS and still stay quite under the 50 $ price limit.
My first wet shaving kit was the van derhagen 4pc that came with boar bristle brush, brush holder, mug, and shave soap. Ive upgraded to badger brush since, but i find the vanderhagen soap builds a nice creamy lather that performs well with straight/DE Safety razors
I started with the Nivea post- shave balm too, but if I was going to make one swap, it would be that for witch hazel. Thayer's is the best and available everywhere
Great video. My wet shave journey started at Target just buying Cremo, instead of gel. I agree with the Van der Hagen razor selection. Would have used a glycerin soap for pre shave, Cremo for cream and an alcohol splash like Old Spice.
Great video! Always love to see what’s available in the US stores. In Canada, you can get enough items to assemble a starter it at a couple retailers. You wouldn’t make it for $50, but you could get someone onto DE shaving.
Having used Harry's shaving cream (applied with a brush, over oil) I would suggest using a big brand shaving gel (Gillette or Nivia) instead. They are still cheap and easy to find but foam up and don't contribute so much to clogging. The Nivia after shave balm (not the cool one) is currently my go to post shave product.
Noxzema ($5), a shavette ($10) and 100 blades($5-10)!! Get you started and you are good for at least 3 months!! For them young pups🫡. Love the channel💪🏼💪🏼
The Nivea post shave balm is very nice for the price. Still, I wouldn't want to get a beginer kit from Target. If I was building a kit for myself as a beginner Here is the kit I would get : Razorock Old Type (includes a CNC milled Stainless Steel handle), a Razorock Plissoft Bruce Brush, Blades samples pack of different brands and a Razorock Alum block, Nivea shaving cream and Nivea post shave balm. The Old Type razor is very mild and amazing for beginers, however the handle is built for more than a lifetime, so if you like the razor and want to dig in deeper afterward, you only need to purchase a supernice CNC milled stainless steel head according to your preference (my favorite one so far is the Razorock BBS A). Also, I find that using an alum block is a must for a beginner to get feedback on how his technique is going.
I, like many others, started with the Van Der Hagen. Really not the worst thing to begin with. I’d maybe try some witchhazel. Some Barbasol would have been better than the Harry’s.
I started with the van der hagen razor that the one he has, the same nivea after shave balm, the nivea sensitive calm liquid shaving cream the green pump bottle, and artic blue after shave. I have some generic brush but looking for something better. Is the van der hagen shaving set for $26 worth it? It come with a brush, a cup and some shave soap.
Ah yes the VDH shaving set, what I started with and I think about a year down the road I’ve swapped it all no with the King CG razor, a Rockwell brush and Lea soap
I feel like a 15 dollar Gillette. Some Gillette sensitive 3 and some Harry’s post shave balm 8 would have sufficed 😂 but that’s just me. 26 or so bucks…. Edit: I did get the bevel brush! So worth it! Edit edit: I changed my mind I’d rather pay more for the shaving cream 😂
My issue with box store, grocery store or chain pharmacy shaving supply is when I travel and I can not travel with a sealed small box of safety razors through TSA. To date I continue to be unsatisfied with the Van Der Hagen and the Wilkinson Sword blades, these seem to be the only two if any I can readily find if at all. I don’t have the time or ability to run to several stores when I travel. While the topic is about finding product at big box stores, it sure would make my day if you could figure out how to get the variety of blades Razor Emporium carries into stores. As a separate note, I really don’t have any personal issues with the Nivea post shave and find it a reasonable product. The thing, much thanks to Razor Emporium, post shave balms like Progresso are just about the same price and just that much better.
I really like this kind of videos. So we can see what's out there in the rest of the world. Van der Hagen has also the Merkur Futur clone (not in every store) and I think it's around the same price. Way better option 👍🏻
The Dollar Shave Club shaving cream will actually lather with a brush and its about a dollar cheaper than Harry's, but honestly for 50 bucks your best bet is to get the Van Der Hagen kit that comes with a boar brush, brush and razor holder, soap, and bowl. Then get the razor, and then the Nivea.
Loved the off scrip brush part! I while back I tried the cremo shaving cream to see if it was an upgrade from Barbasol and it sort of was. However, when I got a brush again, totally better shave when you use a brush. Shout out to Proraso and TOBS lather!
I've started leaning more into disposable straight razor shaves myself...got a Facon shavette from Amazon awhile back after getting my first hot towel shave (kicked that off the bucket list in early 2020 JUST before lockdowns hit), thing came with 100 blades for just about 25ish bucks after tax and shipping. Current setup for me is that shavette, a brush I got from the Van Der Hagen starter I bought some years ago, and a stick of Arko shaving soap made with actual tallow...got two sticks off Amazon for $7.08+ tax and shipping...gave one stick to my little brother for Christmas and that stuff has been doing me good on keeping my beard line and neck neat and tidy, use the Nivea post shave balm as well, and a styptic pencil for any nicks...which I've cut down to only one or two regularly...usually on the chin which is where I have the most trouble keeping it nick free.
I agree the VDH was probably ur best choice as far as razors if you were at walgreens you could have gotten the king c gillette. But i would have went with cremo shave cream and cremo pre shave oil i think its better quality but in saying that the harrys post shave balm is excellent i actually have both harrys post shave balm and nivea and i think both are great choices
Great video, I too am not a fan of shave oils. I can't stand a clogged razor, it has to be as clean as possible between passes for me. The Nivea Balms or any balms for me don't work well for my skin in the summer (Wisconsin). However come winter, balms like Nivea or my favorite Afta in both Green or Blue are a godsend!
I actually started out on that Vander Hagen razor. When I started watching videos on shaving, I bought a Gillette 1940’s Super Speed DE razor from, you might have heard of them, Razor Emporium. I prefer the Super Speed to the Vander Hagen.
Personally I use the Harry's cream as it's a cheaper alternative to the hard soaps and when used in a bowl and brush it creates a really good lather for a walnut size amount
Great video! I dod that excersise some time ago and in my country I am able to get such set for way less than $50 including brush. Decent shave soap, TTO safety razor from Wilkinson + additional blades, brush (actually not really great but will do the work), decent aftershave. There might be some problem with pre-shave but you can still have great shave without it. Since I do not know the Target's offer and the web store can have different product with different prices I could provide you with a list of items I would buy in my country as comparison ;)
Personally, I tried the Bevel razor and it is a decent shaver, especially if you have some nice blades to put in it. At $50, though, I might not go for it and probably look for it on eBay or elsewhere for $30-40. Still, I got nice shaves on it for a bit while I used it. I had already owned a Rockwell 6C & 6S, though, before I bought the Bevel, so it was more about trying something different than finding my "first" DE safety or injector-style razor, but you can't go wrong with Bevel as a first pick for a razor and products (though I still love traditional shaving creams and soaps and a nice brush to distribute the lather across your face).
We have the gilette king c 3 pirece razor and the wilkinson sword tto in my local supermarket each with 5 blades for about 20-25 euro each. Im not a fan of shave oil myself, i use the proraso menthol pre shave, but recently on holiday i used some coconut oil as a pre shave and that worked really well. Arko shave stick great choice but any soap (even palmolive hand soap) would be better than that shave cream (and cheaper). You cant go wrong with nivea. Definitely the brush is important ,even a cheapo synthetic one.
Not sure if i saw this video until now.🤣😂 Not a lotion/cream guy myself so I know that look you gave when you first applied it may be the same as mine. I joke and say it feels like I'm applying mustard. 😂🤣 The cream in a tube is good when healing up from a techmatic shave (tube creams do misturize for sure). The clogging from creams in a tube though. Some people prefer the shave cream. Love my soaps dude! 🤣😂 Your rinsing off at the end. 😂🤣 That's what i do too!!! 🤣😂
I would have bailed on the pre shave oil and the Harry’s shaving cream and replaced it with the van der Hagen 4-piece shave gift set. It costs $24.99 and it comes with a brush,brush holder, bowl and an actual hard shave soap. So the gift set, plus the DE razor for $20.99 and the Nivea post shave balm, that would have put you at $52. Just barely over budget for a WAY more satisfying shave, in my opinion. 👍🏽
That was my first wet shaving set. I passed the mug down to my son when he started wet shaving along with the king handled VDH TTO. it works good with a sharp blade like the Bic chrome
That set plus the Micro Touch One TTO was my first wet shaving kit back in 2015.
yes also here in mexico you can buy this set and the razor is the same as the one he bought TTO twist too open ., the soap is very good for the price in the kit van der hagen
Yep that is an AMAZING starter set
So it’s worth buying the set? I have the VDH razor and the nice after shave
If you are not in a hurry to buy anything, I have come across some decent wet shaving supplies at discount stores such as the Ross/Marshall’s/TJ Maxx trio.
I’ve found shaving soaps, shaving creams, pre-shave oils, after shave lotions for under $5 each, and safety razors such as Muhle for only $10-12.
The only downside is that you find what they happen to have, so it’s not guaranteed they will have anything.
I started with just the king c Gillette razor and cremo shaving cream both from target because “it looked cool”, added a bowl and brush after a couple weeks and was hooked. That was 3 or 4 years ago now but it got me to love shaving instead of it being a chore I had to do for work
I started shaving in the 80's the ara of crocodile Dundee where a clean shaved man was expected to be able to light a match on his face and with that I'll wish you a giddy
I use Barbasol which is the opposite of the Harry's cream. Lots of cushion but as dry as cannoli filling.
I've shaved with the Van Der Hagen and I agree that it's a mild razor that's good for beginners. The Nivea balm is an absolute All Star because of how good and affordable the product is.
That’s funny I agree with you. As a beginner I use the van der hagen de razor and the Nivea after shave balm. 😂
It’s fascinating how many different reactions are to the Van Dar Hagen razor; to me it was not mild at all. It literally was aggressive for my face, and I couldn’t get a shave without a cut. Yet others find it the opposite. I guess faces are different. To me it was very aggressive; faces must all experience different razors. People seem to either love or hate the Van Dar Hagen.
@@johnanderson3700 I think they change the blades recently I have no proof for it but they used to be so smooth for me and in the past few months it’s just so aggressive and they don’t work
Is Bevel good for beginners?
i used the micro touch one version of it and paired with astra blades it cuts very well.
You got a bag? That’s crazy! They are Outlawed in New Jersey
Greetings from Romania! Here you can find a King C Gilette safety razor with 5 blades and a shaving gel from Gilette at only 10 euros. Pre shave from Proraso at 4 or 5 euros, shaving soap or creme ,also from Proraso at 4 to 7 euros and after shave Proraso with prices begining from 6 euros.
This is the kind of video that could help someone try wet shaving without spending a lot. Skip the shaving oil and Harry's cream. Shaving creams like Proraso make thick, cushiony brush lathers. I don't know if Target had any but there are under $15-20 synthetic brushes out there. Even a $2 can of Barbasol would be better than the Harry's cream. The bottom line is that there are better options available for beginners. I agree with you that a better razor would give the kind of shave that experienced wet shavers enjoy. And you can never go wrong with Nivea. Once a newbie gets hooked, the rabbit hole gets bigger 😉
I'd disagree with you on the Barbasol.
It has zero slickness in.y experience.
You'd be better off using cremo or a shave stick..
I don't think that Harry's will have anything decent as far as shaving cream is concerned..
Cremo is the best retail option..oh and would products sold at CVS are great for what they are..
@@rauldelarosa2768 That's why we say YMMV.
@@BartBuzz agreed
Buy7ng thes things at a store is usually a mistake if you ask me. I have multiple of the razors he has and they were about a single dollar each. The same item. And you don't want cushioney things anyway, you need density that shields the skin and lubes it
I love the Nivea post-shave. It's da bomb... I mean da balm.
It’s really disappointing that American companies like Target and Walmart refuse to sell us quality American made goods
I have a tube of Harry's. It's really good for lubeing the blade when your hair is really close. It's not supposed to lather. You need to constantly add water.
As an owner of an Ertan Suer that I purchased from Matt and years long wet shaver with a Cutthroat Gents straight razor from Amazon that it took months of work to bring into shaving condition, I have to say that I respect that Matt makes videos like this one.
I am sooo glad to see safety razors making a comeback.
my first DE was a van der hagen. they're pretty good for the money! pair an astra or gillette platinum with a good soap, and that's what got me into the hobby a few years back.
This was my first DE razor back when it was Rick from Pawn Stars. I got it at Bed Bath and Beyond for $19.99; so the price hasn’t changed in a decade.
I got a VDH set with a bowl, brush, and puck. So, I got started for around $35.00 So glad I upgraded everything and started using Feather blades; which actually makes this cheap razor do a better job.
So I bought the Vander Hagen a few weeks ago, I really like it. I’ve tried the King C Gillette blades with it, and I just destroyed my face with those blades, so I’ve been using the Vander Hagen blades, and like them a lot. I am gonna purchase a blade test kit with a few different brands and see what razor works best.
I actually started my wet shaving journey with the Bevel kit. The Bevel shave cream is actually not bad, you do need to build the lather with the brush. The Bevel 3pcs razor is mild and did a good job. To this day I still use there balm, really like it. The Bevel kit was a good place to start. Sometimes you can find highly discounted at Target.
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I applaud you for doing this. You run a business selling these items and you told people what they can get at a much lower price. For beginners that’s fantastic.
Now, you did 50 dollars. How about 100 dollars out of your shop? Can it be done? Get the camera.
Easily
@@RazorEmporium Awesome!! Love the videos.
@@RazorEmporium By the way, I wasn’t trying to be a trolling dick. I was thinking more of a $100 video for those of us that are past the beginner stage but not yet pro level. I’ve been wet shaving a few years now, but still using a cartridge razor. I’d really appreciate video like that. Although, I have seen you recommending Merkur 34c for a starter. That’s probably what I’ll get, but I’ll admit, those DE razors scare me a little. They look like one wrong move and they’ll cut the shit right out of you. Help me, sensei.
Great video! I hope we get some converts. Put a Feather or Bic in that puppy and you would have a little better experience! I actually won't start a shave without my Shave Secret oil. I've been using it for years, and started with it during my cartridge days. It's thin and doesn't clog. I use only 10 drops and use it for insurance, even with my $20-$30 soaps. Cremo shave cream was great in my cartridge days, but once I started with Proraso Red and TOBS Sandalwood with a brush, there was no turning back. Once I discovered the Arko stick and shaved every day with it until it was done, tallow-based soaps are the only way! Slickness AND cushion. Now, I'm knee deep in artisanal soaps. Thanks again!
Both Nivea aftershave balms are absolutely worth looking into. Readily available quality products. The one you bought is lightly scented and doesn't contain alcohol, the other is a bit more "traditional" and intense with alcohol.
Nivia do multiple post shave balms, neither the "sensitive" (dark blue label on white background) or "sensitive cool" (light blue label on dark background) contain alcoholic (and are lightly scented). The same is true for their sensitive shaving gel. I've never tried their non "sensitive" products.
Fantastic video Matt! My oldest son started his wet shave journey with the Bevel razor, and he loves it, and yes, he uses cartridge razors too, but when he gets the time, he uses the Bevel, and just once, he used one of my Gillette Fatboys, and he said he has to get used to the feeling of it. But all in all, he’s all about using the brush, using his own soaps, and keeping it cheap. Thank you so much for this great video.
Just got home from Target with the Bevel full kit. Was $27 cheaper than marked ($62.99). Also got Gillette King C. Both seem really nice.
In Europe you can get an incredible kit for $50: Nom (Muhle) brush for $7, Proraso preshave, soap and aftershave for $17 and an original Muhle razor with a R89 head for $23. You add a pack of Wilkinson blades and you are set.
My wife bought a VDH kit - a brush, soap, the razor and in addition some of their shave butter, which is a shave cream and aftershave balm in one they claim and that was what i learned to DE shave with. The little brush i got was a synthetic and i still use that today now and then.
It's a reasonably cheap method of starting to DE shave and if you decide to carry on at least you can get the basics of technique and lathering learned before dropping a bucket-load of cash on other products. That comes a bit later!
T
Thanks for your sacrifice! I used to use the Nivea too. No complaints on that.
Thanks for that. Hopefully, I'll be visiting the US in Oct. All going well, I'll get one of your shirts. Bet wishes form New Zealand
When I started down this path 3 years ago. My first razor was a Rockwell R1 butterfly for $15. It is still in my rotation and I still get a great shave with it.
I started wetshaving by buying a Wilkinson Sword classic premium DE razor, at the time I was shaving using nivea shaving gel and to be honest this combo almost made me quit. I know this razor is fine for most people but for me each shave ended with ingrowing hairs, micro cuts or irritation no matter what blade and crazy expensive english shave cream i used. I saw a real difference when I bought the King C. Gillette and paired it with a feather blade. I have a very sensitive skin that is prone to irritation and nicking because of many allergies that I have. Surprisingly a very mild razor paired with an extremely sharp blade was the way for me to go. I have been wet shaving for over a year now, the transition from electric razors and cartridges was one of the best decisions in my life
Comment number 2: Have to add another comment because I can't wait for a new video to come out to say it. Just got my Rex Ambassador about an hour ago and had my first shave on setting 3 for face and 2 for neck and I am absolutely astonished at how amazing the razor felt and performed. Easily a DFS if not a near BBS shave with one pass. Awesome job, keep it up!
Ive used the Duke Cannon aftershave balm and i actually really enjoy it. I think its a eucalyptus and menthol product? Anyone else have any experience or recommend something a little higher quality that has the same qualities?
I started off with the Van Der Hagan razor and used it for a few weeks. It was extremely mild and worked okay. I quickly upgraded. However the Van Der Hagan soap has been something I still get because it just works so well, even with my aggressive razors.
Where can I get the soap?
You’re a brave man. I could see that you were terrified before taking your first stroke.
Cremo will lather a bit more than Harry’s. Not as much as good shaving soap of course but it is slick and in my experience works for a quick shave. As does, btw, hair conditioner that does not lather. Neither need preshave product but hair conditioner works for that too. For me the most important part of wet shaving is the “wet” part - meaning the brush, soap, and water. The inexpensive boar brushes available locally work just fine - especially after breaking in. For a razor available when traveling or “stranded” the Gillette Skin Guard is excellent. Has two blades but spaced so as to not have hysteresis effect. (I like to use on Parker short metal travel handle but inexpensive combo handle and 1 or 2 carts almost always available for
I’ve been using Nivea balms for years! Awesome- I just started about 6 months ago with a d/e VanDerHagen - I have gotten several different razors since- never looked back
Bevel shave products are the best! If a race of men who are prone to getting razor burns, and bumps and ingrown hairs when they shave, can use the product and receive a clean soft face, then anybody can really benefit from it. Definitely superior in my opinion.
A pre-shave oil is a must for me. Less skin irritation and added smoothness. I only use my hands to apply my homemade shaving cream. Great shave results, repeatedly.
...Shavette, straight razor, and safety razor shaving is for "real men". True manliness!
...Also black men must shave "with the grain".
I had almost the same adventure My very first safety razor was the one with the pawnstars guy the Microtouch one or something like that. And I still use that Nivea every now and then if I have a soap with no matching splash or balm to go with it. Used that with canned goo for years then finally got a tub of proraso red and a shavette and that was it I was hooked.
Morning Matt. Thanks for showing those that say it’s to expensive to wet shave. Maybe you connected with a couple of people.
Enjoy your weekend and be safe.
I actually did this a few weeks ago before I saw this video. I purchased a King C Gillette for about $30, and a Van Der Hagen bowl, brush, soap combo pack for about $15, and a bottle of Nivea aftershave balm. To be fair, the Van Der Hagen set was on sale, normally $25ish, but still think that’s about the minimum a guy could spend and get a true full experience into wet shaving.
My experience has been very good so far.
Good enough that I’ve crept a little further down the rabbit hole. I recently upgraded my brush from the boar hair that came with the Van Der Hagen set to a synthetic brush from Simpson. The T3. And I love it.
Hi Matt, I have become a dedicated customer at Razor Emporium. I have five different shave soaps from you: 1966, 1965, Proraso etc. All of which I enjoy changing to from time to time. My favorite razor from you so far, is the Henson Medium. BUT, I would very much appreciate hearing what your favorite shave soaps are. Perhaps I will try other from you and see if I like your selections better. Love wet shaving! You prior videos and great service will keep me as a regular customer. Thanks Matt?
1955 is my favorite followed by old school. Thx!
Great video, Matt! I would have bought Cremo for the pre shave, instead of that Harry”s junk. I use it for a preshave, and it is REALLY slick. Nivea is always in my den. Thanks again for another awesome video.
The big box stores are definitely beginning to carry, or expand their selection of DE razors and wet shaving supplies. To my skin, a Flair Tip Super Speed is smoother than the Weishi. However, that doesn't make the Weishi a bad razor, just not as good overall imo. A badger shave brush with a quality shave soap will obliterate any canned goo or brushless cream, bar none. Cannot go wrong with Nivea. Fun and informative video!
When I was in Italy this is the kind of store where you get prorasso products, on the supermarket shelves. People just load them in their baskets. In the U.K. Nivea is held in high regard by medical professionals.
When my father had skin grafts after an explosion at work he was instructed to use Nivea skin cream on his skin after the skin grafts were complete. Nivea is serious stuff, they know what they are doing.
Great video Matt! But tbh nothing beats a shave with the konsul razor. I have always had small irritation on my neck even after switching to DE razors. The konsul cleared all my issues and i never have to worry about getting irritation again. Thank you!
I just started wet shaving with DE razors a month ago. I bought the Bevel Shave Cream along with the Van der Hagen safety razor. After getting over the nicks and cuts of the first couple of days, I started getting some skill with it. I bought some Harry's Shave Cream a week or two later to try it. THUMBS DOWN! It's terrible! They must have a different purpose in mind for it, possibly to be used with their cartridge razors, (which I had been using for the past few years). I'll try other shave creams to see what I like best. The Bevel cream is fine for me for now--and I even bought the Bevel Safety Razor as well a couple of weeks in. I'm 68 and had never shaved with a DE Safety Razor in my life. (I had a beard from age 20 to 50. Prior to growing my beard, I used an electric shaver on the rare days I needed a shave, and upon shedding my beard at 50--done in a barbershop--I have used cartridge shavers.) I just got fed up with the process, particularly spreading shaving cream on my face with my hands. I first decided to get a shaving brush to take care of the hand application, and I quickly thought--"Why not try going totally old school?" I did and I find I am much more engaged in my daily shaving process, rather than just being faintly irritated by it, to the point of skipping days just to avoid the process. I now actively enjoy shaving.
The best pre-shave at the grocery store is Noxzema Classic cream ($4.69)! Van Der Hagen has a box with soap, bowl, brush, and stand all bundled together for $19.99. For a razor, I would go with the most expensive flexible disposable instead of a bad DE razor. Like the "BiC Flex4 Titanium Sensitive Men's Disposable Razors - 3ct" for $6.49
Harry's shave cream works well with a cartridge. Not meant to foam/lather and works well when using a multi-blade as it does not clog it. I use it when traveling by plane and carrying a cartridge. You can also use a lot less than you might think. It might have been better to use Barbasol for a DE shave. It is pretty nice for $2. I use the non-cooling version of the Nivea, regardless of what razor/blade I am using, and I love it.
I just realized that you’re a tall guy too! I’m 6’8” and I kept asking my wife “is that how I look when I’m in a store?” Lol. Glad to see that the t-shirt fits tall guys too *hint Cool video, have a good weekend
I bought a Van Der Hagen razor a few years back while I was traveling. I don't regret the purchase. My daily driver is either a Merkur Futur or a Merkur Progress razor. Occasionally I still use the Van Der Hagen with a more aggressive blade like a Kai or a Nacet. This is my weekend stubble remover. On a workday I generally use the Merkur progress with a Feather blade usually on setting 2.
While at Target, I would have investigated the Bevel DE razor. And I would have looked for a package of good quality blades from their selection. I also would have looked for a preshave oil to soften the stubble. As I have a very course beard. For a shaving cream, away from home (and my shaving soap and brush) a can of Barbersol would be suitable for me.
Hi Mat. Nice video with you and Kensurfs the other day. I was gifted a Vikings Blade Chieftain Jr. safety razor with a pack Gillette Platinum de blades. Very comfortable shave. I am new to this De shaving. 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
As much as I complain about being able to get products locally at least one of our grocery stores sells Proraso green tubes for like $8. Thankfully we have online places like yours.
I live in Thailand, where shaving isn't really even a thing, so I fully understand how you feel where things are hard yo find.
@@leehaseley2164 yeah and when your spending good money on a soap or aftershave it would be nice to actually smell it like at a physical location. Or hold a brush in your hand. I ordered a Simpson T2 brush online and although I love it I believe if I saw in person I’d probably get the larger T3.
I started with the Shave Butter & a CVS “Blade for men” razor. New name now but it’s similar to the Van Der Hagan. I also used Nivea shave gel which wasn’t bad. The blades that came with the razor weren’t great and I bought some online. Then I bought Proraso sandalwood. I was on my way.
That Nivea after shave balm is a good product. 👍
Ya, it is my go-to when I nick myself!
I am still using a bevel razor. It’s very mild and I upgraded the razor blades with stuff from you. I still use shave cream because lathering doesn’t seem to give me the same protection cream does
My mum sent me some Harry's balm from England and I have to say that it is a great product.
Thanks for this I always wondered how the Harry’s shave cream would perform, but had the feeling that it would be the same as the outcome you got. This is a great video for those who are just getting into wet shaving though. Keep bringing us more! Thanks!
I have a yaqi clone of the razor you were holding at 1:28 and it’s actually very efficient, which you don’t really feel when you use it, but you do easily overshave with it if you don’t take care. I thought it was an ikon clone of days past? Maybe that would have gotten a better shave than the harry’s razor?
Did you forget, you have already tossed that razor across the room! It's the same chinese razor just rebranded as VanDerHagen.
That’s what He said.
Nice review/challenge Matt. I agree shave oil just gunks things up and restricts glide so useless. Nivea balm is the standard. I use it regularly. Not top tier but solid.
Van der Hagen hard soap and a vDH brush.
Good vid. Nivea has a shaving gel (I don't use gels but bought this one to try) and it lathers well....just add water and go home with it with a brush. I have 2 Van Der Hagen kits (probably for Christmas) they have that shave butter and paid $10 for all. And yes, Nivea balm is really good (even better than many expensive brands). Another great balm: AquaVelva 5in1
You’re up early brother. Love the videos
I do not use creams that often, but when I do, I also find that using a brush rather than my hands makes for a better lather. Like you said, it mixes better.
It also depends on the cream. There are creams out there that create a fuller, richer, thicker lather. Harry's might not be the best. But when one is in a pinch...
Ive been using the van der hagen DE saftey razor with their blades. Ive recently pulled the trigger on castle forbes lavender shaving cream and after shave with a razor emporium badger brush. Im looking for a suggestion on a razor with better quality that doesnt break the bank and getting a sample pack of the mild razor blades or possibly more agressive blade from razor emporium. Also have been using the DE razor for over 8 months idk if thats important or not.
Great video! One of my go to creams is Cremo, which is sold at Target for only $8 or so. It does a pretty good job, especially of you use a brush.
That was my first DE razor, and now I’ve added their adjustable razor to my collection.
As there is no Target in Germany I replace this with the drugstore chain Müller, and as a specification, getting a cheap set for someone who wants to see, is wetshaving with a saftey razor for me, or getting an emergency kit.
Razor: Wilkinson Classic (incl. 5 Blades) -> 2.95 €
Soap: Speick Shaving Stick -> 3.15 €
Brush: Aveo Men (own brand), pig bristle -> 2.99 €
AS: Aveo After Shave Balm -> 2,95 €
At all round 12 €, and it is quiete a decent experience, though I do not like the Wilkinson Blades. You can switch out the razor and the AS and still stay quite under the 50 $ price limit.
Dunno I did fine with dollar shave club shave butter and water,plus the barbosal 1918 shave cream the tube is good.
My first wet shaving kit was the van derhagen 4pc that came with boar bristle brush, brush holder, mug, and shave soap. Ive upgraded to badger brush since, but i find the vanderhagen soap builds a nice creamy lather that performs well with straight/DE Safety razors
I started with the Nivea post- shave balm too, but if I was going to make one swap, it would be that for witch hazel. Thayer's is the best and available everywhere
Great video. My wet shave journey started at Target just buying Cremo, instead of gel. I agree with the Van der Hagen razor selection. Would have used a glycerin soap for pre shave, Cremo for cream and an alcohol splash like Old Spice.
Great video! Always love to see what’s available in the US stores. In Canada, you can get enough items to assemble a starter it at a couple retailers. You wouldn’t make it for $50, but you could get someone onto DE shaving.
Oh man Nivea is a classic. I still turn to it a lot today.
Having used Harry's shaving cream (applied with a brush, over oil) I would suggest using a big brand shaving gel (Gillette or Nivia) instead. They are still cheap and easy to find but foam up and don't contribute so much to clogging. The Nivia after shave balm (not the cool one) is currently my go to post shave product.
Noxzema ($5), a shavette ($10) and 100 blades($5-10)!! Get you started and you are good for at least 3 months!! For them young pups🫡. Love the channel💪🏼💪🏼
UK. In pound land you can buy Bic yellow single blade razors 10 for £1 and shaving foam £1.
For £2 you are set.
The Nivea post shave balm is very nice for the price. Still, I wouldn't want to get a beginer kit from Target. If I was building a kit for myself as a beginner Here is the kit I would get : Razorock Old Type (includes a CNC milled Stainless Steel handle), a Razorock Plissoft Bruce Brush, Blades samples pack of different brands and a Razorock Alum block, Nivea shaving cream and Nivea post shave balm. The Old Type razor is very mild and amazing for beginers, however the handle is built for more than a lifetime, so if you like the razor and want to dig in deeper afterward, you only need to purchase a supernice CNC milled stainless steel head according to your preference (my favorite one so far is the Razorock BBS A). Also, I find that using an alum block is a must for a beginner to get feedback on how his technique is going.
Thanks for the video.
I, like many others, started with the Van Der Hagen. Really not the worst thing to begin with. I’d maybe try some witchhazel. Some Barbasol would have been better than the Harry’s.
Great video idea Matt. My in store product suggestions would be the Van der Hagen luxury set, Nivea post shave balm and a King C. Gillette razor
I started with the van der hagen razor that the one he has, the same nivea after shave balm, the nivea sensitive calm liquid shaving cream the green pump bottle, and artic blue after shave. I have some generic brush but looking for something better. Is the van der hagen shaving set for $26 worth it? It come with a brush, a cup and some shave soap.
Ah yes the VDH shaving set, what I started with and I think about a year down the road I’ve swapped it all no with the King CG razor, a Rockwell brush and Lea soap
Gillette King C + Wilkinson Swords Soap and boar Brush is less than 50$ easily. And very decent beginner kit.
I feel like a 15 dollar Gillette. Some Gillette sensitive 3 and some Harry’s post shave balm 8 would have sufficed 😂 but that’s just me. 26 or so bucks….
Edit: I did get the bevel brush! So worth it!
Edit edit: I changed my mind I’d rather pay more for the shaving cream 😂
My issue with box store, grocery store or chain pharmacy shaving supply is when I travel and I can not travel with a sealed small box of safety razors through TSA. To date I continue to be unsatisfied with the Van Der Hagen and the Wilkinson Sword blades, these seem to be the only two if any I can readily find if at all. I don’t have the time or ability to run to several stores when I travel. While the topic is about finding product at big box stores, it sure would make my day if you could figure out how to get the variety of blades Razor Emporium carries into stores.
As a separate note, I really don’t have any personal issues with the Nivea post shave and find it a reasonable product. The thing, much thanks to Razor Emporium, post shave balms like Progresso are just about the same price and just that much better.
I really like this kind of videos. So we can see what's out there in the rest of the world.
Van der Hagen has also the Merkur Futur clone (not in every store) and I think it's around the same price. Way better option 👍🏻
What’s that? A de razor?
The Dollar Shave Club shaving cream will actually lather with a brush and its about a dollar cheaper than Harry's, but honestly for 50 bucks your best bet is to get the Van Der Hagen kit that comes with a boar brush, brush and razor holder, soap, and bowl. Then get the razor, and then the Nivea.
Loved the off scrip brush part! I while back I tried the cremo shaving cream to see if it was an upgrade from Barbasol and it sort of was. However, when I got a brush again, totally better shave when you use a brush. Shout out to Proraso and TOBS lather!
What about the gillette gel product? Ive not used it in years, but I remember it working fairly well
I've started leaning more into disposable straight razor shaves myself...got a Facon shavette from Amazon awhile back after getting my first hot towel shave (kicked that off the bucket list in early 2020 JUST before lockdowns hit), thing came with 100 blades for just about 25ish bucks after tax and shipping. Current setup for me is that shavette, a brush I got from the Van Der Hagen starter I bought some years ago, and a stick of Arko shaving soap made with actual tallow...got two sticks off Amazon for $7.08+ tax and shipping...gave one stick to my little brother for Christmas and that stuff has been doing me good on keeping my beard line and neck neat and tidy, use the Nivea post shave balm as well, and a styptic pencil for any nicks...which I've cut down to only one or two regularly...usually on the chin which is where I have the most trouble keeping it nick free.
I agree the VDH was probably ur best choice as far as razors if you were at walgreens you could have gotten the king c gillette. But i would have went with cremo shave cream and cremo pre shave oil i think its better quality but in saying that the harrys post shave balm is excellent i actually have both harrys post shave balm and nivea and i think both are great choices
Great video, I too am not a fan of shave oils. I can't stand a clogged razor, it has to be as clean as possible between passes for me. The Nivea Balms or any balms for me don't work well for my skin in the summer (Wisconsin). However come winter, balms like Nivea or my favorite Afta in both Green or Blue are a godsend!
I actually started out on that Vander Hagen razor. When I started watching videos on shaving, I bought a Gillette 1940’s Super Speed DE razor from, you might have heard of them, Razor Emporium. I prefer the Super Speed to the Vander Hagen.
Personally I use the Harry's cream as it's a cheaper alternative to the hard soaps and when used in a bowl and brush it creates a really good lather for a walnut size amount
Great video!
I dod that excersise some time ago and in my country I am able to get such set for way less than $50 including brush.
Decent shave soap, TTO safety razor from Wilkinson + additional blades, brush (actually not really great but will do the work), decent aftershave. There might be some problem with pre-shave but you can still have great shave without it.
Since I do not know the Target's offer and the web store can have different product with different prices I could provide you with a list of items I would buy in my country as comparison ;)
Great shave Matt!
That beard butter is amazing
Personally, I tried the Bevel razor and it is a decent shaver, especially if you have some nice blades to put in it. At $50, though, I might not go for it and probably look for it on eBay or elsewhere for $30-40. Still, I got nice shaves on it for a bit while I used it. I had already owned a Rockwell 6C & 6S, though, before I bought the Bevel, so it was more about trying something different than finding my "first" DE safety or injector-style razor, but you can't go wrong with Bevel as a first pick for a razor and products (though I still love traditional shaving creams and soaps and a nice brush to distribute the lather across your face).
We have the gilette king c 3 pirece razor and the wilkinson sword tto in my local supermarket each with 5 blades for about 20-25 euro each. Im not a fan of shave oil myself, i use the proraso menthol pre shave, but recently on holiday i used some coconut oil as a pre shave and that worked really well. Arko shave stick great choice but any soap (even palmolive hand soap) would be better than that shave cream (and cheaper). You cant go wrong with nivea. Definitely the brush is important ,even a cheapo synthetic one.
Not sure if i saw this video until now.🤣😂 Not a lotion/cream guy myself so I know that look you gave when you first applied it may be the same as mine. I joke and say it feels like I'm applying mustard. 😂🤣 The cream in a tube is good when healing up from a techmatic shave (tube creams do misturize for sure). The clogging from creams in a tube though. Some people prefer the shave cream. Love my soaps dude! 🤣😂 Your rinsing off at the end. 😂🤣 That's what i do too!!! 🤣😂