Traditional shaving is increasingly appealing to men looking for an authentic, precise, and skin-friendly approach. Far from disposable razors, this method offers a more sensory, economical, and often gentler ritual for the epidermis — a true daily men's facial care.
Here are our essential tips for successful traditional shaving at home, step by step.
Essential products for the ritual
Good shaving primarily relies on the right tools. The Vitry men's care range brings together everything you need for a complete and precise ritual.
Shaving Soap
Prepare your skin
A good shave starts with well-prepared skin. Ideally, shave after a hot shower: the steam opens pores and softens hair, making it easier to cut. Then, dampen your face with warm water to boost skin hydration and optimize lather adhesion.
Lathering with the Shaving Brush
Take your Shaving Brush and moisten it slightly. Make circular movements on the Shaving Soap to pick up a small amount of product. Then transfer the soap to your shaving bowl and build up the lather.
The 3-step technique.
Use little water at first, add it gradually, then stir vigorously to get a dense and homogeneous lather.
The ideal texture.
Between firm whipped cream and stiff egg whites — a dense consistency that adheres well to the face, for comfortable application and optimal razor glide.
Apply the lather
Take a first layer of lather with the shaving brush and apply it all over the face in light circular motions. This first thin layer lifts the hair and improves its grip.
Then apply a second, more generous layer — essential for protecting the skin and optimizing the shave.
Shaving with the Butterfly Safety Razor
Use the Butterfly Safety Razor, valued for its precision and safety. Insert a new stainless steel blade by opening the butterfly head using the mechanism integrated into the handle. Shaving is done in 2 to 3 passes depending on skin sensitivity.
1st pass — with the grain.
It removes most of the hair without irritating the skin. Rinse your face, then reapply a generous layer of lather before the next pass.
2nd pass — still with the grain.
Ideal for sensitive skin, this second pass refines the result while minimizing irritation. It suits most men for a clean and comfortable shave.
3rd pass (optional) — against the grain.
Reserved for more resilient skin and experienced users, it provides a perfectly smooth finish. Always shave with a light hand to avoid micro-cuts.
Once the desired result is achieved, rinse thoroughly with cold water — cold water tightens pores — and gently pat dry with a clean towel without rubbing.
Integrated mechanism
Stainless steel blade
Ergonomic handle
Easy blade replacement
Durable and reusable
Economical
Normal to sensitive skin
Beginners & experienced users
Soothe and moisturize with the Mattifying Gel-Cream
Finish your ritual by applying the Mattifying Gel-Cream. This men's facial care product, with its light, non-greasy, and non-sticky texture, is immediately absorbed by the skin.
How to apply it?
Dispense a pea-sized amount of Mattifying Gel-Cream onto your palms, warm it slightly between your hands, then gently pat it onto your face — without rubbing, to avoid irritating freshly shaved skin.
How to choose your shaving ritual?
Beginner or experienced shaver? Sensitive or resilient skin? Here's how to adapt the ritual to your profile.
New to traditional shaving?
Start with 2 passes with the grain only. The Butterfly Safety Razor is ideal for learning: its blade replacement mechanism is simple and its handling is intuitive.
Do you have sensitive skin?
Focus on preparation (hot shower or warm towel) and never skip the second layer of lather. Limit yourself to 2 passes with the grain and always finish with the men's facial care Mattifying Gel-Cream.
Do you want a perfect close shave result?
The 3rd pass against the grain is for you. Make sure you have a new blade, a well-lathered foam, and a light touch on the handle — it's the blade's pressure that does the work, not brute force.
Looking to integrate men's care into your routine?
Traditional shaving is in itself an excellent men's facial care: it lightly exfoliates the skin with each pass. Combined with the Mattifying Gel-Cream after shaving, it constitutes a complete and effective routine.
FAQ: Traditional Shaving, Your Questions
What is the difference between a Best Badger and a classic badger brush?
A Best Badger brush is made with superior quality badger hair, which is softer and denser. It retains water better, creates a creamier lather, and massages the skin more pleasantly — a central tool for a successful traditional shave.
How many times can a safety razor blade be used?
Generally, a stainless steel blade lasts 5 to 10 shaves depending on beard density and skin sensitivity. Replace it as soon as it tugs or pulls — a sign that it's no longer sharp enough for a comfortable shave.
Can you use shaving soap without a shaving bowl?
Yes, but a shaving bowl greatly facilitates lathering and helps achieve a more even texture. It also allows you to work the soap more easily than directly on the face — especially recommended for beginners.
Is traditional shaving suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, provided the skin is well prepared, you don't exceed 2 passes with the grain, and you finish with a soothing men's facial care product. Traditional shaving is often gentler on sensitive skin than multi-blade razors, which pass over the same area multiple times.
Does traditional shaving replace a men's skincare routine?
It is an essential part of it. Coupled with the Mattifying Gel-Cream aftershave — which moisturizes, soothes, and mattifies — the shaving ritual alone constitutes a complete and effective men's care routine for clean and well-maintained skin daily.
Find all the ritual products in our shaving and beard range.
