Tag Archives: Shaving

Gentlemen’s Review – Jesse Jimz – Prime Cut Rinse Free Shave Oil

October 28, 2019 By in Review Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment

Regarding my wet shave, I don’t require much to satisfy modest expectations for a pleasant experience. At the top of my list of expectations is a close, smooth, irritation-free shave. Due to skin sensitivity, I never utilize a blade directly on my face – no matter what a brand guarantees in terms of touting an irritation, bump-free experience. I simply cannot take the risk. Therefore, I only shave my neck area just beneath my chin. This area isn’t nearly as sensitive as my face. Nevertheless, I still administer care as I shave because ingrown hairs are still a distinct possibility. Typically, I shave during a hot shower so my skin is soft and pliable, and I employ the usage of a good shave gel. The thicker and slicker the lather, the greater the barrier between the blade and my skin. Jesse Jimz Prime Cut – a shave oil I am current trialing – aims to eliminate the need for a shave gel altogether. Founded by Jesse Jimenez, Jesse Jimz is a premium line of skincare products for discerning gentlemen that desire more from their grooming products. Prime Cut is formulated with ingredients such as jojoba oil, vitamin E, and apricot kernel oil to help sooth and nourish the skin for an irritation-free wet shave. Without the presence of a robust lather, I was curious how my skin would react to just a shaving oil. Now, let’s talk performance.

Quick Observations

  • Jesse Jimz Prime Cut is a lightly scented oil that is noticeable fresh, but not terribly overbearing. The shaving oil rinses scent-free after a gentleman is done shaving.
  • As advertised, the shaving oil will not clog your razor blade with bothersome goops of hair and lather. However, there is a slightly oily residue that remains on the skin after your shave has been administered. A gentleman should wisely ensure that the targeted shaving area is thoroughly rinsed thereafter.
  • Now, although I did not achieve the closest shave possible using Prime Cut, it did perform adequately on light to medium stubble. However, I fear, for more substantial beard growth, Prime Cut may not perform as well. Thicker beards may require the presence of a considerable lather to provide sufficient protection from a blade’s edge. A quality shave cream or gel should not need repeated reapplications, whereas Prime Cut would most likely beg additional pumps of oil to replenish itself on the skin. Prime Cut provided a slick enough surface to protect against nicks and scrapes, but I could still feel the sensation of the blade sliding against my skin, much more so than when I use a shaving gel. My skin didn’t suffer from post-irritation, but it is something a gentleman will have to become accustomed.
  • I would definitely recommend Prime Cut as a complement to a gentleman’s preferred shave cream or gel. Using Prime Cut alone may not be sufficient for gentlemen with coarse, curly hair. It is my hope that the addition of a shaving cream or gel is added to the Jesse Jimz line of products.
  • Jesse Jimz retails for approximately $24.00 for a 2 oz. bottle, which should last a lifetime when used in conjunction with a shaving cream or gel.

Gent Hints – PreShave Oil – Olive Oil

January 23, 2016 By in Gent Hints Tags: , , 2 Comments

Olive OilFor those select gentlemen that require the usage of a razor with some regularity, the mastery of wielding a sharpened blade against one’s skin is a delicate operation. The operation can be a perfectly executed, boring routine; or plans could go seriously awry and leave said gentleman bleeding profusely over his bathroom sink. Trust, on one occasion, I nicked my scalp pretty good in the shower, and the subsequent gore required a Band-Aid on the back of my head like Marsellus Wallace from Pulp Fiction. So, any sound advice that can be procured from varying sources to prevent a duplication of the events that day is much appreciated. And so, today’s wise counsel is courtesy of gentleman reader Henry Minton.

On a previous Gent Hint, Mr. Hinton was kind enough to point out that even with the beneficial, redeeming qualities of pre-shave oil; replenishing one’s stock could be relatively expensive. As an alternative, Mr. Minton suggested grape seed oil as a less costly option. Now, I had the sincerest intentions to try grape seed oil as pre-shave oil, but I discovered a hidden stash of olive oil tucked away in a bathroom cabinet, most likely courtesy of my wife. Anyway, I substituted the olive oil for grape seed oil, all with the hopes of attaining the same results as with a more expensive, brand name pre-shave oil.

Well, I am here to report that olive oil could be one the best skin care products absent from your shaving essentials. Yes, it provides an excellent protective, lubricated barrier between your razor blade and skin. Yes, it is loaded with skin-friendly antioxidants such as vitamin E to combat wrinkles, aging, and inflammation. Yes, it functions as a great moisturizer, perfect for dry or extra-dry skin. And finally, yes, it is far less expensive than many popular brands on the market – especially when accounting for the quantity contained in a standard bottle. If you don’t have a bottle of olive oil stocked in your bathroom, I humbly recommend a visit to your local supermarket to procure a bottle.

Gent Hints – PreShave Oil – Head Shaving

July 7, 2015 By in Gent Hints Tags: , , , 3 Comments

Zirh PrepareToday, I would like to share with the audience an amazing discovery. Actually, it perhaps is not that amazing at all. It was a bit of grooming commonsense that apparently wasn’t common to me at all. Revealed during a perusal through Men’s Health Magazine, I was awakened to the practice of rubbing pre-shave oil into the scalp before shaving. Now gentlemen, in all seriousness, I cannot begin fathom why I never employed the services of pre-shave oil for my head shaving endeavors. I would like to think that the remainder of the civilized, grooming world has long been up to speed with such a ritual. And so, the first opportunity I had to shave, I readily employed the advice as dispensed by Men’s Health – and what a difference it made. The finished product – my freshly shaven bald head – was smoother with far less irritation than past adventures in shaving. Shame on me for not utilizing this tactic long ago. Well, if you are reading this, none of us (assuming you are a fellow bald gentleman) have an excuse going forward with our shaving regimens. The pre-shave oil in concert with your shaving cream will provide a comfortable glide across your scalp, absent the nicks and burn. Happy shaving gents!

Gentlemen’s Review – Zirh – Prepare Botanical Pre-shave Oil

March 31, 2015 By in Review Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment

Zirh PrepareFor all intents and purposes, a gentleman’s shaving regimen is seemingly relegated to the application of a chosen shaving cream to the face, closely followed by customary hair removal, courtesy of a series of meaningful strokes from a safety razor. It is a relatively standard practice, free of affectation and complexity. However, as my education in the art of shaving advanced, I soon became exposed to grooming details that were wholly unfamiliar. And one of those details: pre-shave oil. Coordinating with a gentleman’s shaving cream, pre-shave oil is designed to assist your razor with an easy, fluid glide across your skin. Today, we are looking at a pre-shave oil offering from Zirh, their Prepare Botanical Pre-Shave Oil. Did I escape with no cuts, razor burn, or nicks. Let’s see how it performed.

Observations

  • Packaged in a small silver squeeze container, Zirh Prepare arrives with a clear appearance and clean, odorless fragrance.
  • Given that this product is oil based, it is pleasantly light with a non-greasy touch. It does not leave a greasy residue and absorbs into the skin at a moderate pace.
  • Depending on the thickness of one’s beard, only a small amount is necessary to prepare the area that is being shaved. I estimate that perhaps a dime-sized amount is sufficient enough to cover an area an inch in diameter.
  • Regarding performance, Zirh Prepare does reduce the friction that may arise when shaving. My shave was noticeably smooth and easy. But aside from aiding my safety razor with an effortless glide across my skin, it was the post-shave feel that really stood out. Not only was there an absence of burn & irritation; my skin felt incredibly soft and supple. So, Zirh Prepare not only provides a smooth shave, it also helps moisturize and calm the skin. Please note: A Gillette Fusion safety razor was used during shaving.
  • Given its moisturizing qualities, I even employed Zirh Prepare as a beard moisturizer. My hair is slightly coarse, so Zirh Prepare really helped in softening up and providing a healthy appearance to my beard. Only a smaller amount is required if you choose to utilize Zirh Prepare in this capacity.
  • Now, I have to exercise a measure of honesty, the price point of $18.50 for just 1 fluid ounce will surely frighten some gentlemen away, especially with less expensive alternatives on the market. Nevertheless, if your shaving regimen is infrequent and your wallet can sustain the financial commitment, Zirh Prepare is a great product to have stocked in your medicine cabinet.
  • As mentioned above, retails for $18.00 at 1.0 fl oz (30 ml). Zirh offers a unique payment plan. A gentleman can choose a one time payment, or an auto-replenishment is available in bi-monthly or quarterly intervals. If anyone has any experience with this replenishment program, please feel free to comment.
  • For more details, please visit http://www.zirh.com/men-shaving-products/prepare-preshave-oil.html for information.

Product Specifications

Zirh Prepare Botanical Pre-shave Oil

Zirh Prepare is formulated for all skin types. Designed to lubricate the beard area and improve glide while shaving. Provides a protective layer that can help prevent razor burn as well as making shaving easier and more comfortable.

Key Ingredients

  • Safflower Seed Oil: Emollient plant oil that contain beneficial fatty acids that help to repair the skin’s barrier and re-moisturize dry skin
  • Carica Papaya Fruit Extract: Has exfoliating properties to provide for a smoother shave.
  • Mango Fruit Extract: Antioxidant.
Gentlemen’s Standard Approved
Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample for review purposes only. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.

Gentlemen’s Review – Bevel – Bevel Shaving System

July 8, 2014 By in Review Tags: , , , , , 93 Comments

BevelFor better or for worse, the contemporary gentleman has been afforded the indispensable luxury of convenience. As we must stubbornly recognize our modern societal environment, we have been conditioned to accept that life is decidedly hurried. Every facet of life is now burdened with the absence of time. Thus, natural routines are now subjected to increasingly narrow time constraints. Our method of communication, the manner in which we prepare meals (if we even prepare meals at all), how we get dressed, and how we groom – it has to be swift, uncomplicated, and painless. At least, that is how our psyches have been molded to accept as fact.

So, speaking of said grooming, let’s examine the delicate art of it by way of sharpened blade, affectionately known as shaving. With each successive year, today’s gentleman is seductively bombarded with an array of new & improved razors that promise to deliver the closest and most comfortable shave known to humanity – in less time. More and more blades. Blades empowered with a lubricating strip. Blades that artfully pivot up & down, and now side to side. Blades that surprisingly vibrate during shaving. The gentleman’s razor has been equipped with a bevy of bells & whistles required to get him in and out of the bathroom as swiftly as possible, with the least amount of blood spilled as possible. Now, every gentleman has a preference, and with so many unproven promises monopolizing commercial airtime between games of the week, it really is a toss-up to determine which company adheres to its claims. Continue reading →

Gentlemen’s Review – Jack Black – Beard Lube & Conditioning Shave

April 22, 2014 By in Review Tags: , , , , 6 Comments

 

Jack Black Beard LubeToday, we are discussing every gentleman’s favorite bathroom grooming ritual – shaving. And on deck we have the Jack Black Beard Lube being examined. Spanning the duration of this website, I have been granted the privilege of documenting my grooming escapades with a variety of skincare products, and this perhaps ranks as the most interesting to date. When preparing for a traditional shave, a gentleman is usually armed with three grooming products – aside from his trusty razor – that he employs during his shaving regimen: pre-shave oil, shave cream, and a post-shave soothing agent for the skin.

The Jack Black Beard Lube combines all three grooming entities into one tube to cover all the bases a gentleman requires when taking a sharp blade to face. The beard lube is indeed interesting. I am generally accustomed to a shave gel with a decent enough lather to provide not only sufficient comfort to my skin, but also a mental comfort of knowing the blade will glide across my throat absent the threat of severing my carotid artery. Now, since you are reading this post today, I obviously did not slit my throat using the Jack Black Beard Lube. Nevertheless, that does not speak to actual shaving performance. So, without any further delay, let’s dive into my observations and thoughts on this highly unique shaving product.

Observations

  • The beard lube retains a light, creamy texture as it emerges from its dark blue tube.
  • Immediately, you will discover that this particular shave cream does not lather like any previous shaving cream you have employed. Now, the product may appear to be creamy when you squeeze it out of the tube, but it is a little oily when you rub it on the skin.
  • Despite the noticeable absence of a rich lather, the cream is still visible enough on the skin, so re-application isn’t necessary if you feel you’ve missed a spot. It doesn’t dry out as some shave gels have the reputation to do, so again, repeated applications is not needed.
  • A jelly bean sized amount on the fingertip is sufficient enough to cover perhaps a 1-2 inch radius on the skin. Of course, this is all dependant upon how much you prefer to use.
  • The shave itself is smooth. Again, mentally, you will have to adjust to not seeing your face lathered up. Nevertheless, the oils assist the razor in moving gently across the skin with no snags or tugs. For thicker beards, I would definitely suggest using an electric razor to plow through your facial wilderness before trying to shave any closer. I say that because the tube is relatively small and the retail price is expensive. So, you don’t want to liberally use the shave cream unnecessarily.
  • Post shave: the skin is left refreshingly soft and smooth. No irritation. No blood. No burn. It should be noted that this product has macadamia nut oil as an ingredient. I am allergic to nuts, but I did not have any adverse effects. However, this is just my experience. If you have a severe nut allergy, proceed with caution.
  • Available sizes: 3 oz ($11.00), 6 oz ($17.00), 16 oz ($33.00)
  • The only drawback would be the price. Honestly, it is a great shave cream. And given that it is essential 3 product combined into 1, a gentleman may be receiving a bargain. Nevertheless, if you are shaving 3-4 times per week, you might run the risk of blowing through a few tubes a month. And that can add up quickly. So, if you have the disposable income to enjoy such a luxury, I would definitely recommend this product. If you are a gentleman with a moderate revenue stream, purchase this for yourself during those special times when you want to treat yourself.

Product Specifications

Beard Lube – Conditioning Shave with Jojoba & Eucalyptus

An entirely new way to shave. Unlike traditional shaving foams and gels which can dry out skin, our award-winning Beard Lube® is a pre-shave oil, shave cream and facial skin treatment in one easy-to-use product specially formulated for men’s shaving needs. 

The unique formula contains phospholipids – a rich source of essential fatty acids that are essential to the function of cell membranes – to bind moisture to the skin and support the natural skin barrier. The lightweight, penetrating formula not only helps prepare your beard by penetrating and softening whisker growth, it holds in moisture so your shaving blade glides easily. Refreshes skin, too, for an easier, smoother shave and less razor burn.

The unique see-through texture lets you see where you’re shaving, helping to prevent nicks and cuts–especially great for shaving side burns, moustache and head. Won’t clog your blade, because it is super light and rinses easily. 

Key Ingredients

  • Macadamia Nut Oil, Jojoba Oil and Glycerin provide a lubricating, protective cushion.
  • Phospholipids bind moisture to the skin and support the natural skin barrier.
  • Peppermint, Eucalyptus and Menthol refresh and revitalize skin.
  • Heather helps calm and soothe skin.

For more information about Jack Black products, please visit Jack Black HERE for more details.

Gentlemen’s Standard Approved

Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample for review purposes only. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.

Profile – Brian Mulreany – Executive Shaving Company

October 3, 2013 By in Profile Tags: , , , , , 3 Comments

Executive Shaving

So, if you have been following this blog for any indeterminate amount time, you will probably know that the ritual of shaving and grooming has been discussed quite thoroughly, if not far too much. Nevertheless, here we are again, intimately discussing shaving. Trust, gentlemen really want to know about this. Only this time around, we have the pleasure of having grooming expert, Brian Mulreany, expound on the present topic that appears to garner a passionate opinion from men everywhere. Presently, Mulreany is co-owner and sales director at Executive Shaving in the United Kingdom. The Executive Shaving Company is one of the largest shaving and grooming suppliers in Europe. So, let’s dive right in, pick Mr. Mulreany’s brain, and see just exactly how a gentleman should be shaving.

Continue reading →

Gentlemen’s Review – Bic – Bic Flex 4 Perfect Razor

July 20, 2013 By in Review Tags: , , , , , , Leave a comment

Bic Flex 4Today, we are going to talk about a subject that elicits feverish passion every time the subject is examined. If you reference the picture above, of course we are talking about shaving. Yes, this simple grooming ritual seems to fire up gentlemen across the nation when we broach the discussion here on the site. In one corner, we have gentlemen that prefer the ubiquitous safety razor. And in the opposite corner, we have gentlemen that prefer a classic straight razor. And in another corner, we have a contender that no one every speaks of – the disposable razor. Truthfully, I have never written about disposable razors because I never utilize them. The handling is clumsy. They are terribly stiff. And the blade is not comfortable. Nevertheless, I was extended the opportunity to trial the new Bic Flex 4 Perfect Razor. Ironically, the Flex 4 may be marketed as a disposable razor, but it didn’t “feel” like a disposable razor. Please read further to understand what I mean.
Continue reading →

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