The Importance of Self-Care and Grooming

As a man, taking care of yourself should be a top priority. Proper self-care and grooming can have a huge impact on your physical and mental health, as well as your confidence and overall well-being. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of self-care and grooming for men, and provide some tips to help you take care of yourself.

Why is self-care important?

Self-care is all about taking care of your physical and mental health. It’s about recognizing the importance of your well-being and making it a priority. When you take care of yourself, you’re better able to handle stress, maintain a positive outlook, and live a happier and healthier life.

Self-care can take many forms, from exercise and healthy eating to getting enough sleep and taking time for yourself. It’s important to find the activities that work best for you and make them a regular part of your routine.

Why is grooming important?

Grooming is an essential part of self-care, especially for men. Good grooming habits can help you look and feel your best, and can also have a positive impact on your confidence and self-esteem.

Proper grooming can also help prevent common health issues like acne, skin infections, and ingrown hairs. By taking care of your skin and hair, you can maintain a healthy and clean appearance.

Tips for self-care and grooming

Here are some tips to help you take care of yourself and maintain good grooming habits:

Establish a daily routine: Set aside time each day to take care of yourself. This could include showering, shaving, and applying skincare products.

Use the right products: Make sure you’re using the right products for your skin and hair type. Consult with a professional or do some research to find the products that work best for you.

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for good health and can also help improve the appearance of your skin and hair.

Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help your body recharge and reduce stress.

Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help improve your physical and mental health, and can also help you maintain a healthy weight and appearance.

In conclusion, self-care and grooming are essential for men who want to look and feel their best. By establishing good habits and making self-care a priority, you can improve your overall well-being and live a happier and healthier life. So take some time for yourself, and make self-care and grooming a regular part of your routine.

Barbershop Etiquette 101: How to Be a Good Client

Going to the barbershop is about more than just getting a haircut – it's also about building relationships and fostering a sense of community. To make sure you're being a good client and contributing to a positive atmosphere, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Arrive on Time: Your barber's time is valuable, so make sure you show up for your appointment on time. If you're running late, call ahead and let them know.

2. Communicate Clearly: Make sure you communicate clearly with your barber about what you want. Bring in pictures if you're not sure how to describe the style you're looking for.

3. Be Patient: Good haircuts take time, so be patient and let your barber work their magic. Don't rush them or try to dictate every little detail of the cut.

4. Show Respect: Remember that you're sharing the barbershop with other clients and barbers. Be respectful of their space and their time, avoid using your phone or being loud and disruptive, lastly be aware of your surroundings when using adult language in case there are children around.

5. Tip Appropriately: Tipping is an important part of barbershop culture. Make sure you tip your barber appropriately based on the quality of the service you received.

By following these simple guidelines, you can help create a positive and welcoming atmosphere at your local barbershop

From the Brink of Extinction: The Story of How Barbershops Survived

Barbershops have a long and storied history, dating back to ancient Egypt and Rome. Over the centuries, barbershops have served as not only places to get a haircut or shave, but also as community gathering places where people could socialize and exchange news and ideas.

However, in the mid-20th century, barbershops in many countries began to decline in popularity. There were several factors that contributed to this decline.

Firstly, the rise of beauty salons and unisex hairdressing shops in the 1960s and 1970s meant that people had more options when it came to getting their haircut. Women began to go to salons for haircuts and men started going to unisex shops where they could get a more fashionable haircut than they could at a traditional barbershop.

Another factor was the increased availability of electric hair clippers, which made it easier for people to cut their own hair at home. This made it less necessary for people to go to a barbershop.

Finally, changing cultural attitudes also played a role in the decline of barbershops. As society became more informal and less focused on traditional gender roles, the idea of going to a men-only barbershop for a haircut or shave began to seem outdated to some people.

However, in recent years, barbershops have made a comeback. Many people have realized that the experience of going to a traditional barbershop is something that cannot be replicated by a salon or unisex hairdressing shop. The social aspect of going to a barbershop, where people can catch up with friends and chat with their barber, has become a selling point for many barbershops.

Additionally, there has been a renewed interest in classic men's grooming and style, which has helped to fuel the resurgence of barbershops. More and more people are looking to get a traditional, well-executed haircut or shave, and barbershops are the best places to get these services.

So while barbershops did face a decline in popularity in the mid-20th century, they have made a strong comeback in recent years. The traditional barbershop experience, with its focus on community, conversation, and quality grooming services, is something that cannot be replicated by other types of establishments. We are proud to be part of this resurgence, and to provide our clients with the finest grooming experience possible.

5 Tips for a Stress Free Kid’s Haircut

For many children, getting their first haircut can be an intimidating and scary experience. As a parent, you want to make sure that your child feels comfortable and safe during the process. At our barbershop, we understand the importance of a positive first haircut experience, and we’ve compiled some tips to help you prepare your child for their first haircut.

Talk to your child about the process

Before heading to the barbershop, talk to your child about what they can expect during their haircut. Explain to them that the barber will use scissors and clippers to cut their hair, and that it might feel a little strange at first. You can also show your child pictures or videos of other children getting haircuts to help them understand the process.

Choose the right time

It’s important to choose the right time for your child’s first haircut. Try to avoid scheduling the appointment when your child is tired or hungry, as this can make them more irritable and fidgety. A good time might be after a nap or meal, when your child is well-rested and calm.

Bring distractions

Bringing along distractions can be a great way to keep your child occupied during the haircut. Bring along a favorite toy or book, or even a tablet with their favorite show or movie. This will help keep your child entertained and distracted while the barber works.

Use positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement can go a long way in helping your child feel comfortable during their first haircut. Praise your child for being brave and sitting still during the haircut, and offer small rewards such as stickers or a small treat afterwards. This will help reinforce positive behavior and make the experience more enjoyable for your child.

Choose the right barber

Choosing the right barber is crucial when it comes to your child’s first haircut. Look for a barber who is experienced with children and has a friendly and patient demeanor. Our barbers are specially trained to work with children, and we do our best to make sure that every child feels comfortable and safe during their visit.

At our barbershop, we understand that a child’s first haircut can be a memorable experience for both parents and children. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your child has a positive first haircut experience and sets the foundation for a lifetime of great haircuts.

History of the Straight Razor

The straight razor, also known as a cut-throat razor or open razor, has been a staple tool in the barbershop for centuries. Its precise and efficient design has made it a favorite among barbers for years. Let's take a look at the history of the straight razor and how it has evolved over time.

The first evidence of razors can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where copper razors were used as early as 3000 BCE. These early razors were shaped like a curved spoon and were used to shave the head and face. As metallurgy advanced, razor designs improved, and by the 6th century BCE, razors made of iron were being used.

During the Middle Ages, barbers performed more than just haircuts. They were also responsible for beard and mustache grooming, as well as providing medical services like bloodletting and tooth extraction. Barbers used straight razors to provide these services, and they were considered a prized possession. Many barbers even decorated their razors with intricate designs to showcase their skill.

In the 18th century, Sheffield, England became the center of the razor-making industry. Sheffield was known for producing high-quality steel, which was perfect for creating sharp, durable razors. The invention of the "hollow ground" blade, where a concave groove is ground into the blade, made it possible to create a razor that was both sharp and lightweight.

By the 19th century, straight razors were the preferred tool for men's grooming, and barbershops could be found in nearly every town. The introduction of disposable safety razors in the early 20th century led to a decline in the use of straight razors. However, straight razors remained popular among professional barbers due to their precision and control.

Today, straight razors are experiencing a resurgence in popularity among men who appreciate the traditional art of shaving. Straight razors are eco-friendly and cost-effective, as they can last a lifetime with proper care. They also offer a close shave that can't be matched by disposable razors.

In conclusion, the history of the straight razor is a long and storied one. From its humble beginnings in ancient Egypt to its current resurgence in popularity, the straight razor has remained a trusted tool in the barbershop. Its precision and efficiency have made it a favorite among barbers for centuries, and it is sure to remain a beloved tool for many years to come.

The Importance of Finding the Right Barber

Finding the right barber can be a game-changer. Not only can a good barber give you a great haircut, but they can also become a trusted confidant and friend. In this post, we'll discuss why it's important to find the right barber and how to do it.

Consistency is Key

One of the main benefits of finding the right barber is consistency. When you find a barber who understands your hair and style, you can be confident that you'll always leave the chair looking and feeling your best. Whether you're going for a classic look or something more trendy, a good barber can help you achieve it every time.

Personalized Attention

Another benefit of finding the right barber is personalized attention. A good barber takes the time to get to know you and your preferences, whether it's the type of haircut you like or the products you use. This attention to detail can make all the difference in the final result, and it can also make you feel more comfortable and relaxed during your appointment.

Trust and Confidence

When you find the right barber, you can trust them with your hair and your confidence. A good barber knows how to make you feel comfortable and relaxed, and they can also provide guidance and advice on how to maintain your look between appointments. This level of trust and confidence can boost your self-esteem and make you feel more confident in all aspects of your life.

So how do you find the right barber? Here are a few tips:

Ask for Recommendations

Start by asking friends and family for recommendations. If someone you know has a great haircut, ask them where they go and who their barber is. This can be a great way to find a barber who has a good reputation and a loyal customer base.

Do Your Research!

Once you have a few recommendations, do your research. Check out the barber's website or social media pages to get a sense of their style and expertise. Look for reviews and testimonials from other customers to see what they have to say about the experience.

Finding the right barber can make a big difference in the quality of your haircut and your overall confidence. By following these tips, you can find a barber who understands your style and helps you look and feel your best every time.

Choosing the Right Hairstyle for your Face

Choosing the right hairstyle can make all the difference in your appearance. The shape of your face is an important factor to consider when choosing a hairstyle, as it can help you highlight your best features and balance out any asymmetry. Here's a guide to choosing the right hairstyle for your face shape.

Oval face shape:

An oval face shape is considered the ideal face shape, with balanced proportions and a gently rounded hairline. Almost any hairstyle can work for an oval face shape, so consider what features you want to highlight. Short styles like a buzz cut or crew cut can showcase your bone structure, while longer styles like a textured crop or slicked-back undercut can add volume to your hair.

Round face shape:

A round face shape has soft, curved edges and is wider at the cheeks than at the forehead and jawline. To elongate your face, choose a style with volume on top and shorter sides, such as a pompadour or a textured quiff. Avoid blunt bangs or styles that add width to your face.

Square face shape:

A square face shape has a strong, angular jawline and a straight hairline. Styles that soften the corners of your face, such as a side-parted comb-over or a textured fringe, work well with this face shape. Avoid styles that make your face appear more boxy, like a flat top or buzz cut.

Heart face shape:

A heart face shape has a wider forehead and a narrower chin. A textured fringe or side-swept bangs can balance out your forehead, while a style with volume on the sides can add width to your jawline. Avoid styles that add volume at the top of your head, such as a pompadour, as they can make your forehead appear even wider.

Diamond face shape:

A diamond face shape is widest at the cheekbones and has a narrower forehead and jawline. A textured crop or messy fringe can add width to your forehead, while a style with volume on top can balance out your cheekbones. Avoid styles that accentuate your cheekbones.

When choosing a hairstyle, don't forget to consider your hair type and texture as well. Your barber can help you find a style that works best for your face shape and hair type. Experiment with different styles to find the perfect look for you!

The 4 BEST ways to support local business, for free.

We hear a lot of chat about supporting local business from NH folks, which is great. But it does go beyond eating out and shopping local instead of at a chain. Lot’s of businesses depend on the local economy to survive! 

Now some of you may be thinking that it should be enough that you're spending your hard earned money at these establishments, and I wish you were right. The problem with that mindset is that if nobody knows about the business that you like, they won’t go. Small businesses don’t have the huge advertising budget that big businesses do so it’s always very appreciated when we can get some help from our customers and clients.

Here are a few key ways you can support local FOR FREE

Refer, Refer, REFER

Telling your friends about us is one of the best ways to help support us! Most of us have some sort of social media at this point, being more mindful of tagging whatever local business you're visiting on your day to day is one of the biggest ways to show your support. In a lot of cases you’re probably already posting to your Instagram story, just throw in a quick tag. We’ll thank you for it.

Review

We all know that reviews are a great indication of how a business operates and treats its customers so those are always amazing to get in and of themselves. But did you know that much like Instagram and Facebook, Search engines such as Google have an algorithm too? If you perform well in the algorithms eyes you’ll get put at the top of the search therefore getting almost, if not more, business than referrals. One way to do that is to receive regular positive reviews. So if you love us, let us know!

Gift Cards

Online shopping can be unpredictable and online inventory may be low but gift cards are always a great option in supporting local and checking names off your gift list.

Vote for us!

Most local communities or states have publications that offer surveys once a year and give awards to the businesses that poll the best. Being able to hang these awards on the wall of the business not only offers new customers a sense of comfort but also gives brand exposure to the business when the results are announced. Most of the time it takes 5-10 minutes to fill out the entire survey and you can support a plethora of your favorites all in one go!

Our local awards we are hoping to win are:

Hippos Press - Best of 2023

New Hampshire Magazine - Best of 2023

Those links are posted on our website, Instagram and Facebook!

Coconut oil: Is it really good for your hair?

It’s no secret that for years coconut oil has been somewhat of a buzzword for skin and hair care. Many huge companies and celebrity lines have added it to their products. But should you be using it?

Why coconut oil?

Many have taken to using coconut oil in their hair and skin care regime for moisture, fighting frizz and even on their hands during the dry winter season. When news broke a few years ago that coconut oil may not be good for every skin type, lots of people started to put this self care product into investigation.

What it actually do to your hair
Coconut is loaded with lauric acid, a fatty acid, which is great at coating your hair strand and making it feel silky, but it also creates a water repellent barrier over the entire strand as well. Which means your hair can become dry and brittle. Dry and brittle hair is a recipe for breakage, add in regular heat usage and you have a recipe for unhealthy hair.

Our recommendations

If your hair is damaged from chemicals or heat, or you’re just looking for a little added softness, a great first step is to add amino acids back into your hair shaft. A great way to do so is through hair masks, whether they are strengthening or hydrating is a question for whoever does your hair or beard work.

All in all, we recommend leaving the coconut oil in the kitchen.

Is the customer always right?

We’ve all heard the age old saying “The customer is always right” but I think it’s obvious these days that slogan doesn’t fit most small business practices anymore.

The problem with the original saying (if not obvious) is that it has created a generation of people who think they are entitled to reimbursement or services that aren’t reasonable.

Ex. Karen asked for her chicken to be cooked medium well even after the server advised against ordering that item undercooked. Karen insisted on it and got sick. Karen would like a refund and her hospital fees covered.

For me it’s not about the customer being right but if they are REASONABLE. In the situation of a Master Barber, it doesn't matter who’s at fault if my client’s hair isn’t as they had hoped. Everyone gets a 7 day grace period to call me and come back for an adjustment, no questions asked. Majority of the time it is a 15 minute interaction and I would rather you come back for a quick adjustment that will take a fraction of my day and make you love your haircut until I see you again.

The old saying only drives disconnection in people thinking they need to defend why they aren’t wrong when this is how it should be:

• It’s ok to not nail the haircut 100% of the time.

• It’s ok to not to misunderstand what your client was saying.

• It’s ok to not have accurately conveyed what you were looking for to your barber.

We’re human and it’s impossible to be perfect.

That being said, as professionals we need boundaries or we are walked all over. If this is a recurring thing, we’d have a discussion about you finding a new barber/stylist because clearly I’m just the one for you!

Happy Saturday!

4 tips to get a haircut you actually like

Thinking of changing your hairstyle or finding a new barber or stylist? Here’s some insight from the industry side to take some of the stress out of the process.

A solid consultation requires a few things from both parties. Here are a few key things to bring to the table for a successful consultation with your barber or stylist.

1. Have an idea of what you’re looking for or at least what you’re looking to change. We are happy to give recommendations but it’s helpful to have a starting point even if it’s a part of your hair that you don’t love.

2. Be willing to communicate if you don’t understand what we’re talking about. While we are used to putting technical terms simply, we are only human and saying yes to something that you’re not quite sure of is only going to get you a hairstyle that you’re not quite sure of.

3. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. We are all well aware that you don’t know how to cut hair, after all, that’s why you’re sitting in our chair! A true prefession won’t think you’re dumb or annoying for not knowing exactly what you want. My favorite thing is when someone just throws their hands up and says “I don’t know what I want” and then is willing to have an open and honest conversation about their hair.

4. When in doubt, bring a few photos. I’m not quite sure how the rumor spread that we don’t like reference photos but I haven’t met a single person in this industry that doesn’t love them. Photos are great because it is an objective view of what you’re looking for. Best things to keep in mind: Be as realistic as possible, make sure you actually like the hair and not the person’s face (my suggestion is always block out the model/celebrities face with your finger and envision your own in its place), lastly, grab a few slightly different photos in case one of them isn’t realistic with your type of hair.

Happy hair cutting and hope this helps take some of the anxiety out of a new style/professional!

The difference between a lineup and a haircut.

We see the confusion on a regular basis at the barbershop. Folks don’t want a full haircut so they book a line-up thinking that will be sufficient. We’re going to break down the difference.

A line-up is a great option in-between haircuts if you don’t want to shorten the overall appearance of the hair but still want to look clean. A line-up consists of cutting along the natural hairline to straighten and sharpen the lines. This service does not incorporate any tapering, fading or shortening to the actual haircut itself.

A haircut, I would think, needs far less explanation but we’ll do one anyway. Through clippers, shears, and razors the hair is shortened all over to the desired length and style.

Basically, a haircut can include a line-up but a line-up cannot include a haircut, and yes, even if you think your haircut will take the same amount of time as a line-up you still need to book accordingly!

Have a great weekend!

What REALLY happens when you no-show your appointment?

Ever wonder why your local barbershop or salon has such a strict cancellation policy? I’m here to break that down for you!

As an industry made up of mainly independent contractors, booth renters and self employed folks. There isn’t somebody cutting us a check for cleaning our station or putzing around the shop. We rely on our service income to get paid. Therefore if there is nobody in the chair, there is no money being made. That goes for last minute cancellations or reschedules as well. If someone cancels their appointment and it doesn’t get filled, that's more income lost.

Although many hair professionals do try our best to be understanding regardless of us making a choice to lose income when we are empathetic to an unfortunate event preventing you from making your appointment. We regularly have to deal with folks who don’t understand when it comes to this more sensitive matter and take it very personally and I'm here to tell you it’s almost never a personal decision. We just want to get paid for showing up to work!

If you still have questions I made an example below of just how much 1 no-show appointment a day adds up for us financially.

1 Day: $45 (My rate for a haircut)

1 Week: $225

1 Month: $900

1 Year: $10,800

That adds up QUICKLY!

Team member spotlight: Kain

Kain is our newest member of the team but it feels like he’s been with us for years!

Kain is always first in the shop and is very much a team player when it comes to opening and closing the barbershop. 

On top of being a team player, Kain is always down to do any sort of self growth or team building that the barbershop offers or plans. Kain is very focused on growing himself as an individual and driving himself towards being the best version of himself, both personally and professionally.

The comedic level Kain brings to the barbershop is unmatched. His dry humor works so well in the culture of Ritual Grooming and he is always cracking us up. 

Beyond his personal traits Kain is also a very dedicated and talented barber. It’s been amazing having him cutting alongside us at Ritual Grooming and we are all very stoked to see what he accomplishes in 2023.

Heat protectant and hair

Whenever we mention heat protectant at the shop there tends to be an assumption that it’s for long hair and curling irons but I’m here to tell you that isn’t the truth.

Although the benefits are more apparent with long hair than short hair, there are still many benefits with shorter hair or beards as well.

First let’s break down what is in a hair strand. The hair shaft consists of 3 main components; The medulla, the cortex and the cuticle. Without getting too into the boring stuff we’ll focus mainly on the cuticle.

The cuticle is the easiest part of the hair shaft to damage or repair, it protects the inner parts of the hair and prevents or allows things in or out of the hair. Think of the cuticle like shingles on a roof if the shingles could open or close on a house. The cuticle of the hair can open or close depending on things like heat, cold and chemicals. For the most part you want your cuticle to be closed and sealed as that’s what is going to give you healthy, shiny hair.

That’s where heat protectant comes into play. If you regularly use any type of heat on your hair or beard it is key to use a heat protectant do that you can place a barrier in between the damaging heat and your hair shaft

Beard straighteners are all the rage. but do they work?

We’ve seen and heard all about beard straighteners and quite frankly many of our clients at Ritual Grooming love them, so let’s talk about them.

Folks young and old have flocked to beard straighteners not only for their beard but also for straightening out their unruly shorter hair and for many they’ve proven to be quite useful as it doesn’t require the hand dexterity required for a blow dryer and brush.

When I had first heard of beard straighteners hitting the market I was extremely skeptical and I’d still rather people approach them with caution as beard hair (contrary to what all my clients think) is EXTREMELY delicate when it comes to heat damage. Some of these straighteners can get up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and we don’t even cook turkeys at that temperature, but heat protectant will have to be its own post down the line.

Overall they do work well for use on dry, heat protectant prepped hair. I still prefer the control I get with a blow dryer and brush but I can understand and appreciate that it’s easier for novice hands to use one tool instead of two.You

Team member spotlight: Jessica

Jessica just hit her 2 year mark with the shop and it has been an absolute delight having her work for me.

Jessica is an incredibly intelligent and funny individual she is also a very reasonable and fluid communicator. She is a huge contributor to the amazing energy at the shop.

She started at the shop briefly after barber school, she had years of cosmetology experience under her belt and was newer into the world of detailed fading and line work. Jessica has always been one to take every bit of constructive criticism and apply it to her work and because of that she has come an incredibly long way since her first days at Ritual Grooming and has made us all very proud of her.

Jessica always gives 110% to everyone that sits in her chair and she’ll also give you some excellent advice if you seek it. On top of that she is a huge team player and is always willing to go above and beyond what is asked of her.

Basically Jessica is AWESOME.

Thinning Hair: Fact, Myth & Misconception

We hear A LOT about the woes and thoughts behind thinning hair as barbers and we’ve come to a few conclusions on the whole thing.

Thinning hair is one of the biggest worries among men. We’ve heard every theory from hats to mom’s genes. And the truth is, there isn't enough research to confirm any of it! At Ritual Grooming we do have some strong theories and advice.

A few myths that have been debunked here and there as the sole cause of thinning hair is wearing hats too much, bleaching your hair too much and too much product usage, your mother’s side of the family (to be honest this last one has almost no backing). Although these things can affect the health of your hair they don't inherently cause you to go bald. On the other hand, things that are used to aid in hair growth such as oil treatments, scalp massages and biotin supplements will allow for a healthy scalp, sadly, they will not prevent hair loss.

Our biggest theory is on something you cannot control, hormones. We’ve seen quite the trend regarding testosterone. Testosterone affects the male body in a number of ways, height, body hair, and muscle growth. If you have the ability to grow an amazing beard it is more likely that you will have partial or complete hair loss. Another fascinating situation we’ve seen to help prove this is when an individual begins using steroids or goes through gender affirming therapy and starts injecting testosterone into their system you will see big changes regarding the hairline.

Although losing hair is an incredibly hard process to endure, there are solutions to slow and sometimes even stop this process. A lot of people have taken to topical remedies such as medicated shampoos and supplements. There are also many options for red light therapy on the scalp to help promote hair growth, artificial hair systems (some may know these as “toupees”) and in extreme instances, hair transplants have come a very long way! We always recommend you consult your doctor before beginning any of these, but if it’s something that is a concern to you it is always better to start the research sooner than later.

Men’s Skincare

Skincare is something that often gets neglected in the male community. Things like moisturizer and conditioner is something I’ve spoken about with many clients in my chair. Many of them were under the impression that those things were only for women. I’m here to tell you that couldn't be farther from the truth!

The reality is that everyone’s skin is different but only in the way you care for it. Some people have dry skin, some oily, all need something to stay healthy and youthful looking, and today you’re going to learn how to do it. There are about a million different opinions and avenues you can take when it comes to skincare but we’re going to keep it very basic. Always remember consulting a dermatologist is always the best decision as they are the real pros.

CLEANSER:

Your pores get clogged up with all kinds of nasty crud throughout the day, this is what helps reset that. Cleansers are designed to wash away dirt and oil from your skin & pores. Different cleansers are designed to be more or less gentle depending on the type of skin you have. For example if you have dry skin you’ll want a gentle cleanser, if you have acne prone skin you’ll want a cleanser with salicylic acid in it.

SERUMS:

Serums are a nice little additive after you've washed your face, best applied to moist skin as that is when your skin is the most accepting of the product. There are a variety of serums that you can choose but the most popular are vitamin c which can be very brightening to the skin or hyaluronic acid which is incredibly hydrating for the skin. Hyaluronic acid actually holds 10x its weight in moisture in the skin.

MOISTURIZER:

Moisturizers are a must if you regularly cleanse your face. As great as cleansers are at removing dirt and oil they can’t distinguish between bad oil that clogs pores and the good oil that your skin uses as a natural moisturizer so it strips it all. In some cases of not moisturizing your skin could get shocked and end up over producing oil thinking it needs it, many people think they have oily skin because of this. Another benefit you can get from a moisturizer is sun protection. Many moisturizers come with SPF to some degree, these are a great option for protecting your skin from UV rays. Many people don’t realize how much UV your skin takes in on a daily basis because we don’t get sun burnt but I can assure you it’s still aging your skin prematurely!

PRE-SHAVE OIL:

Moving into shaving and beard care (which does technically count as skincare) pre-shave oils are a must for shaving especially in dry winters. Hydrated skin gets a better shave, end of story. Pre-shave oils add extra hydration to your skin before shaving cream and add extra slip for the blade to glide smoothly over your skin. We use it on every single person before a shave at the barbershop.

AFTER SHAVE:

This has been around forever and is very nice for killing any bacteria on your skin before moisturizing after a shave. Many aftershaves act as an astringent hence “the burn” that comes along with it.

BEARD OIL:

I know the name would lead most to think this would fall under a beard care category but it’s actually designed to be applied to the skin and follicle of the beard not the ends and you will be hard pressed to convince me otherwise. The idea of beard oil is that if you hydrate and maintain a healthy follicle you will grow a healthy beard because you are taking care of the root. This product is also amazing for anyone who gets the “itchy beard” 2 weeks into beard growth as that typically stems from dry skin.

Shaving 101

Many men have spoken of the perks of a proper barber shave and how they wish they could achieve that at home, and I’m here to tell you that you can and it’s easier than you think! On top of giving yourself a more luxurious home treatment we’re also going to discuss why it’s so important to improve your shaving process, and you won’t even need a straight razor.

Let’s begin with some common mistakes I hear about behind the chair; one of the biggest things I hear is not enough (or none at all, eek.) skin prep prior to taking blade to skin. Not only are you not getting a close  shave but it’s incredibly detrimental to your skin. A huge part of why barber shaves are so close is the pre-shave process. Multiple hot towels, and in our shop a full facial steam, on top of oils and creams to hydrate the skin are going to make a world of difference to your home shave process.

What hot towels and steam do is apply moist heat to the skin which softens the skin, allows the skin to absorb products such as pre-shave oil or moisturizer easier and also allows the hair to stick out of the follicle more than it normally does when the skin is dry. You are going to get a far closer shave and your skin is going to feel hydrated and healthy afterwards instead of dry and irritated.

Hot towels and even steam are pretty easy to access at home, if you’re planning on shaving in the shower which is honestly your best option you can completely skip the hot towel portion but I do recommend having a fog free mirror mounted somewhere in the shower especially if you keep any type of facial hair so you can maintain clean lines. If going the shower route, however, I do recommend shaving being the last thing before you get out of the shower so that your skin has had maximum time to soften with the heat.

If you are choosing to shave outside of the shower this is where you can get creative by microwaving a damp towel for 30 seconds before putting it on your face. PLEASE NOTE that these towels can come out extremely hot so it's important to always test the hottest part of the towel on your neck before putting it on your entire face. Hot towels are an amazing way to get your skin prepped for a shave but that prep doesn't last forever, that’s why at Ritual Grooming we use a steam machine during every shave service. The steam will help keep your skin prep lasting throughout the shave. Steam machines tend to be very expensive but you can buy a countertop version, this of course is going the extra mile and isn’t necessary.

Equally important is the products used. There are a few key products you should be using and in this order; Pre-shave oil, shaving cream/butter, aftershave/astringent (optional), moisturizer. Many like to use a shave brush and bowl to get a good lather as well as help lift those hairs up and ready for the razor. We at the shop prefer and carry J.S. Sloane’s shave line because it is incredibly hydrating on top of smelling absolutely amazing. Next week we’ll do a full breakdown on skin care including the above listed products.

Happy weekend!