While I use the shaving brush from my travel kit (it’s the now nearly-bristleless one I used before the one that disintegrated yesterday), I’ve been researching the subject. I’ve learned there is a blog devoted to shaving, natch, Shaving Stuff. And there I learned that Target is carrying some of the Italian Proraso line (I believe I’ve been using their shaving cream as re-packaged by C. O. Bigelow under their own name). The Target nearest us had empty shelves labelled with the names of Proraso products. I’ll check some other stores in my travels today to see if I can come up with something. They have a reasonably-priced boar’s bristle brush that I can use at least for the time being.
I’ve been looking at the Vulfix product line and seriously considering upgrading to a badger bristle brush.
Serious question here,
Is there really a qualitative difference between that fancy stuff and Edge gel for example?
I’m not sure what I use could be called “fancy stuff”, Andy. It’s what’s used by barbers in Italy. But, yes, there’s a definite difference. I’ve used lots of different products including Edge gel (which I think is a pretty good product). I find that what I’m using gives me a closer, smoother, more comfortable shave.
I’ve been shaving, daily, since I was 13 years old. I started with an electric razor (that’s what my dad used) and found it intolerable. I’ve used safety razors ever since (I’m not so much of a purist as to use an old cutthroat razor).
When I say “daily” I’m exaggerating a tad. For a year I had a full beard. And now I avoid shaving unless I’m going out—to see a client, go to the opera, etc. Otherwise I’ve got a stubble. My wife is tolerant.
Did you ever end up finding that Proraso Dave? I’m interested to see how well it works.