INTRODUCTION //
Not a patient trooper myself. When I craved the precision of wet shaving, waiting for shipments felt like an eternity – one day for the razor, the next for the brush, then soap, and the never-ending wait for the splash. I just wanted a razor in hand, pronto! Back then, you couldn’t stroll into a store and grab a traditional safety razor like today. So, for the impatient trooper who stumbles upon this in the vast interwebs and craves instant wet shaving glory, this one’s for you!
Embarking on the wet shaving journey doesn’t have to break the bank. With a budget of $40 credits and a quick trip to your local Walmart, you can kickstart a classic wet shaving routine that promises a close, satisfying shave. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential items I chose and recommend that you will need to get started and stay on budget.
SECTION 1 // Razor Selection
Van der Hagen Traditional Safety Razor = $17.97
The cornerstone of any wet shaving routine is a reliable safety razor, and the Van der Hagen Traditional Safety Razor fits the bill perfectly. Priced affordably, and available at my local Walmart, this razor boasts a classic design and delivers a close shave without the hefty price tag. With five included blades, you’re ready for weeks of smooth shaving without worrying about constant replacements. It is just enough to see whether or not wet shaving is going to be for you.
SECTION 2 // Shave Cream and Balm
Cremo Heritage Red No. 508 Shave Cream and Aftershave Balm = $7.97 each
Pair your safety razor with the luxurious Cremo Heritage shave cream and aftershave balm. Known for its high-quality ingredients and slick lather, Cremo ensures a comfortable shave while protecting your skin from irritation. The aftershave balm soothes and moisturizes, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.
To maximize the effectiveness of your wet shaving experience, remember that less is often more when it comes to shave cream. With Cremo shave cream, a mere almond-sized amount or even less can work wonders. This highly concentrated formula is designed to provide exceptional slickness, ensuring a smooth glide for each pass of the razor. Some even use Cremo as a pre-shave. More on this on a future transmission.
For the uninitiated, the wet shaving technique involves three passes: With The Grain (WTG), Across The Grain (XTG), and Against The Grain (ATG). Begin with the WTG pass to reduce the bulk of the hair, followed by the XTG pass to further refine the shave. Finally, the ATG pass delivers that baby-smooth finish. Applying the right amount of Cremo shave cream ensures optimal slickness during each pass, reducing friction and minimizing the risk of irritation.
By incorporating just an almond-sized or dime-sized amount of Cremo shave cream into your routine, you’ll not only extend the life of your product but also enhance the overall wet shaving experience. This small investment in product application can make a significant difference in the closeness and comfort of your shave.
SECTION 3 // Timeless Appeal of Brut Aftershave Splash = $5.94
No wet shaving routine is complete without a splash of aftershave, and Brut has been a timeless choice for generations. The classic Brut aftershave splash offers a distinctive and masculine scent that lingers without overwhelming. Its cooling sensation provides the perfect finishing touch, leaving you with a sense of confidence that lasts throughout the day.
CONCLUSION // A Precision Shave Fit for a Stormtrooper = $39.85 (not including taxes)
As a fellow trooper in the galaxy, I understand the importance of a clean, precise shave. Putting the budget-friendly Walmart essentials to the test, I can confidently say that the Van der Hagen Traditional Safety Razor, coupled with Cremo shave cream and aftershave balm, offers a shaving experience that rivals even the most advanced Imperial technology.
Practicing what I preach, I executed a flawless three-pass shave using this setup. The Van der Hagen razor effortlessly tackled each pass, leaving my face as smooth as the polished armor of the Galactic Empire. The almond and dime-sized application of Cremo shave cream provided the slickness needed for a seamless WTG, XTG, and ATG routine, ensuring a shave worthy of a Stormtrooper. It’s worth noting that all Cremo products are amazing, and any scent will work perfectly.
To complete the mission, the iconic Brut aftershave splash delivered that classic, commanding scent I love. The Cremo balm, akin to a rejuvenating protocol, refreshed my face post-shave, leaving it ready for the next mission.
As a wet shaving enthusiast, my goal in this article is to inform and educate new wet shavers, guiding them on their journey to a smoother, more enjoyable shaving experience. Whether you’re just starting or looking to enhance your routine, my mission is to provide valuable insights and recommendations.
If you’re eager to start your wet shaving journey right now, head to Walmart. This initial setup will not disappoint and will give you a shaving experience that would make even Lord Vader proud. However, for those ready to take it up a notch, I recommend checking out my article featuring a $100 kit available on Amazon. Stay tuned for more articles exploring various stores and artisans, guiding you through the vast galaxy of wet shaving possibilities.
May your shaves be smooth, and may the Force be with you!
NOTES // This Walmart experiment was conducted at the local Walmart on Tatooine (Arizona), and it’s essential to note that prices may vary, tax not included. Depending on your location, the cost of the Van der Hagen razor, Cremo products, and Brut aftershave splash may fluctuate slightly.
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