shave
| 201. About Shaving Brushes |
 |
Most shaving brushes are made from either boar, badger or synthetic bristles. Each hair type performs differently and will suit different people, uses and budgets. To help you decide which one is for you, we've outlined the key differences below:
Bristle types:
 |
Boar Bristle |
Boar bristle (sometimes referred to as pure bristle) brushes are the least expensive and hold the least amount of water. They have rather firm bristles and perform quite well with shave soaps.
Our pick: Men-U Pure Bristle Shave Brush, $29.95
|
| |
|
 |
Badger Bristle: Pure |
Pure badger hair is dark in appearance and is firmer to the touch than the other grades of badger hair. Most pure badger brushes have been trimmed to shape which can make the tips of the bristles feel a little prickly on the skin. While these brushes aren't as soft and don't hold quite as much water as their bigger brothers, they're the least expensive - and give you the best bang for your buck.
Our pick: Vulfix Pure Badger Shaving Brush #849, $49.95
|
| |
|
 |
Badger Bristle: Best / Super / Finest |
Super badger combines a very high grade of bristles that are softer on the skin and hold more water than pure badger. The vast majority of brushes in this category have been hand assembled, with the tips left in their natural state for a softer feel on the skin. They are usually better made than pure badger brushes and you can expect them to last much longer.
Our pick: Men's Biz Super Badger Shaving Brush, $64.95
|
| |
|
 |
Badger Bristle: Silver Tip |
Silver tip brushes are characterised by their creamy white tips and ultra soft, absorbent bristles. Considered the holy grail of shave brushes, the hair is usually shaped by hand and left untrimmed to give an exceptionally soft feel. It's ability to hold a large amount of water enables it to produce lather quickly and easily.
Our pick: Dovo Silver Tip Badger Shave Brush, $235
|
| |
|
 |
Synthetic |
Synthetic brushes make a great alternative for those that prefer not to use brushes made from animal hair. The bristles are usually firm and springy to the touch but this varies between manufacturers. While they're not the same as boar or badger, they do perform in a similar manner.
Our pick: Men-U Premier Synthetic Shave Brush, $79.95
|
| |
|
Bristle length and knot size:
The bristle length (loft) and knot size will also effect the way the brush performs. If you're not sure what you like, or you're just looking for a good all-round brush, go for a 22-23mm knot and a bristle length of about 50mm.
That new brush smell:
Your new brush may have a strange smell when you first receive it. Don't freak out - it's just a harmless preservative and will wash out after a few uses. However, if the smell bothers you, you can always hasten its disappearance by washing the brush in hair shampoo or lathering up a few times with a scented shave cream.
Caring for your brush:
If you look after your brush, you can expect it to last many years. Here are some tips to get the most out of your investment:
-
When you've finished shaving, rinse your brush in clean water, give it a good shake and then dry it on a towel or hang it in a brush stand to dry.
- If you're going to soak your brush in hot water before you shave, we recommend that you don't use boiling hot water - hot water from the tap will do.
- If you have a silver tip brush you may want to avoid using heavily coloured shave creams as this may stain the white tips.
Related guides
Grooming 101
Determining Your Skin Type
Glossary
