A Close Shave

For years, the cut-throat was an essential part of the barbering routine, and now it’s back in vogue.

It isn’t often a man can pamper himself without feeling slightly emasculated or embarrassed about telling people. But what could be more manly than having your face shaven with a cut-throat razor?

Although it may sound slightly archaic, or like something from Sweeney Todd, a wet shave with a cut-throat at Reds in Sunderland was one of the most relaxing and unique experiences I have had.

I was welcomed with a hot drink and taken to a comfy leather chair where Marshall Hall, men’s hairstylist and wet shaver at Reds, massaged some pre-shave cream into my face to soften the bristles. Marshall then placed a hot towel on my face to open my pores, before lathering me up ready to be shaved with what looked like a ferociously sharp blade.

Lucky for me, Marshall had a very steady hand as he worked his way around my face. I was told that using a single blade is the most effective and efficient way to cut the hair follicle. While the idea of a four or five-blade razor is a seemingly attractive one, the blades produce a much greater amount of friction with the skin, which can cause the redness, irritation and tightness often felt after shaving at home.

After the cut-throat, my face was shaved again with a regular razor, but against the grain to tidy up and remove any leftover hair (skin is too sensitive to be shaved twice with a cut-throat).

To close the pores on my face, a chilled towel was pressed on for a minute. It was then massaged with a moisturiser and a lightly scented aftershave was patted onto my cheeks and upper lip.

The end result: A remarkably smooth face. The treatment was incredibly relaxing and I left feeling refreshed and invigorated. Marshall’s top shaving tips:

Try to use a pre-shave cream before you shave because it softens the bristles and helps stop the razor from dragging. Use a decent foam, try to stay away from the canned ones if you have sensitive skin because the gasses can irritate. I would recommend a wet shave as a monthly treat for a man who looks after himself.

A traditional wet shave from Reds costs £15. To book an appointment with Marshall call Reds on 0191 511 0288.