Hot-Towel Shaves

The actual sequence

1. Pre-shave oil. Sweet almond and grapeseed, warmed in the palm. Massaged into the beard for two minutes. It softens the hair shaft so the razor can sit closer without dragging.
2. First hot towel. Roughly 65°C, folded over the lower face. Lifts the bristle and opens the pores. Stays on for around three minutes.
3. Lather. Brushed-on shaving cream, against the grain. A second light layer over jaw and neck.
4. First pass. Single-blade razor, with the grain. Always single-use; you can ask us to unwrap it at the chair.
5. Second hot towel. A short rest while the skin settles.
6. Second pass. Across or gently against the grain, depending on your skin. A barber checks twice before any against-grain stroke; the goal is comfort, not the closest shave in the world.
7. Cold towel. Tightens pores. Sets the skin.
8. Balm. Alcohol-free post-shave balm with allantoin. Cologne dab on request.

Whether it's right for your skin

If you have very sensitive skin, eczema, or a current breakout in the shave area, mention it at the door. We'll usually switch to a foil-shaver finish for the second pass — you keep the full hot-towel ritual without the close razor contact.

Single-blade straight razors are kinder than multi-blade cartridges for most skin types, but they leave less margin for error — which is why every shave here is given to a barber with at least eight years' experience on this specific tool. Apprentices don't run the chair on a hot-towel.

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