How To Shave x Cornerstone
Growing up I always wanted to have a beard, any facial hair was confirmation that I was becoming a man. By age 16 when all of my facial hair had arrived, and I began shaving, I did not know what I was doing.
I had no experience at all; I knew I needed shaving creme and a razor. Countless screw ups, many bandages on face later and hours of youtube tutorials on how to shave. Now we are here I think I have at least the basics.
Today I will be using Cornerstone the new shaving subscription and delivery service that offers high quality, UK-made razors and products to men across the country. Shopping for toiletries isn’t much fun, so Cornerstone re-stock my bathroom cupboard for me – sending me shaving supplies when i'm running low. I simply choose what I want in the box, specify how often I want it delivered and you can even personalise your razor for free! I had SUG engraved on mine of course.
Enter to win a free Cornerstone grooming kit
The subscription service is based on the rate at which you use shaving products. Which makes it really flexible. Chose your delivery based on your shaving patterns as below;
Shave 5 – 7 days a week = 1 box every 6 weeks
Shave 2 – 4 times a week = 1 box every 12 weeks
Shave once a week or less = 1 box every 18 weeks
and then customise the products to be included in each box.
I love the post shave balm and scrub. The products have a very distinctive and masculine scent. The overall design and efficacy of Cornerstone’s products make it a true contender in what is a very competitive market.
STEP 1: SET THE STAGE Gather your tools. You’ll need: pre-shave face scrub, shave gel or cream, a razor with sharp blades, post-shave balm and a soft towel. Depending on how wild your stubble has grown, you might consider clipping or using an electric trimmer before diving into a full wet shave for smoother and closer results.
STEP 2: PREP YOUR SKIN Our best advice? Shower first. The warm water and steam will soften stubble and open your pores. If you don’t have time, use a hot towel for a similar effect. A few times a week, exfoliate. You want to use a face scrub that doesn’t contain any plastic microbeads and instead uses natural ingredients, such as volcanic sand or grounded nutshells. It might seem like an extra step, but it will help release in-grown hairs, lift off dead skin cells and unblock pores — meaning smoother, clearer skin.
STEP 3: LATHER UP Avoid dry shaving. Instead, apply a protective layer between your blade and skin to prevent nasty razor burn. There are plenty of alternatives out there, from gels to lathers to foams – pick your preferred texture and get ready for action. If you have sensitive skin, opt for a shave gel or cream that is alcohol- and parabens-free. A small dollop of your preferred product should do. Lather in a circular motion until your face and neck are evenly covered.
STEP 4: SHAVE PROPERLY Your razor is the most important piece of kit. Nothing but the best will do so make sure your blades are fresh and sharp before you start the ritual. Make small strokes, shaving in the direction your stubble grows, never against the grain as this is sure to leave you with those pesky in-grown hairs. Rinse your blades under hot running water regularly and gently pat your skin dry in between strokes. Make sure you splash your face with cold water to close your pores and gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel when you finish.
Tip: Make sure to keep your blades dry in between shaves a this reduces micro-corrosion of the blade edge, helping to keep them sharper for longer.
STEP 5: MOISTURISE Always restore the natural moisture balance of your skin with a cooling post-shave balm (different from perfumed aftershave). Try using one without alcohol to better soothe and condition your skin.
STEP 6: CONQUER THE DAY We’ll leave this one open to your imagination!