Wet shaving is one of the classic and most effective methods for achieving smooth and well-groomed skin. An essential part of this ritual, which is often used in barbershops, is the hot towel.
This little detail not only makes the difference between a quick shave and a luxurious experience. It also has numerous skin-caring benefits. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare a hot towel for shaving at home. It also explains the benefits it offers and how you can integrate it into your shaving ritual. So you can create the perfect barbershop experience.What is the purpose of a hot towel when wet shaving?
A hot towel has two main functions when wet shaving: it opens the pores and softens the beard hairs. These two effects make the shaving process much easier and minimize the risk of skin irritation and razor burn. The heat also relaxes the facial muscles, making shaving a more pleasant and relaxing ritual.
How to prepare a hot towel for shaving
The first step to properly preparing a hot towel is to understand the different options. You can heat the towel in different ways.
How do you prepare a hot towel for shaving?
There are several ways to warm up a hot towel at home. Here are some tried and tested techniques you can try:
1. Hot water and bowl
The simplest method is to soak the towel in hot water. Fill a bowl with hot (not boiling) water. Soak the towel in it. Then wring it out well. It should be damp, but not dripping wet. The towel should be warm, but not so hot that it burns the skin.
2. Microwave
For a quicker method, you can also heat the towel in the microwave. Lightly moisten the towel, place it in the microwave and heat it for 20-30 seconds. Make sure that the towel does not get too hot.
3. Towel warmer
If you want to take your home barbershop experience to the next level, you can invest in a towel warmer. These devices are often used in professional barbershops and keep the towel at a constant, comfortable temperature.
Warm up the towel in the microwave
Use these techniques to optimally prepare your hot towel for shaving and achieve the best results.
The advantages of a hot towel for wet shaving
Using a hot towel for wet shaving not only has aesthetic benefits, but also skin care benefits:
1. Opening the pores
The heat of the towel opens the pores of the skin, making it easier to remove dirt and excess oils. This results in a closer shave and prevents bacteria and dirt from penetrating the skin during shaving.
2. Softening the beard hair
Another important result of the heat is the softening of the beard hair. Soft hair is easier to cut. This leads to a smoother shave. This reduces the likelihood of skin irritation. Ingrown hairs also occur less frequently.
3. Relaxation of the facial muscles
The heat not only relaxes the skin, but also the underlying muscles. This leads to a more comfortable shaving experience and ensures that the blade glides more smoothly over the skin.
Advantages of a hot towel when shaving
The combination of these effects improves the quality of the shave. It turns the whole ritual into a relaxing experience.
Hot towel: use before or after shaving?
A common question is when exactly should the hot towel be used – before or after shaving? The answer is: both are possible, but there are different reasons for using it before and after shaving.
Before shaving
The primary purpose of applying before shaving is to open the pores. It also softens the beard hairs. This optimally prepares the skin for the shaving process and minimizes the risk of skin irritation.
After shaving
A hot towel after shaving helps to soothe the skin and alleviate any razor burn symptoms. Many people prefer a cool towel for this step. This closes the pores and tightens the skin.
Hot towel before or after shaving?
It depends on your personal shaving ritual whether you want to use the hot towel before or after shaving. Both applications have their advantages.
Essential oils for a luxurious shaving experience
To make your shaving experience even more luxurious, you can add essential oils to your hot towel. Some oils, such as eucalyptus, lavender or tea tree oil, have soothing and antibacterial properties that have a positive effect on your skin.
How to use essential oils with a hot towel:
Add 2-3 drops of the oil to the hot water before soaking the towel.
Make sure the oil is well mixed with the water before soaking the towel in it.
Wring out the towel well and place it on your face to enjoy the soothing effects of the oil.
Essential oils not only provide additional care for the skin, but also transform shaving into a wellness experience.
Essential oils for shaving
These small details make a big difference. They ensure that your skin feels soft and nourished after shaving.
How to achieve the barbershop experience at home
Using a hot towel when wet shaving is a simple but effective way to improve your shaving ritual. Not only does it help to open the pores and soften the beard hairs. It also transforms shaving into a relaxing and luxurious experience.
Whether you use the towel before or after shaving. The added benefits for your skin make this step essential. Add a few drops of essential oil to your towel to create a spa-like atmosphere in your own bathroom.
Try it out. Enjoy a shave that leaves your skin smooth. Enjoy a pleasant and relaxed feeling.
