There’s something iconic about a straight razor shave. It’s not just about removing facial hair—it’s a ritual steeped in tradition, precision, and skill. Back in the day, a hot towel shave was a weekly routine for men. Today, it’s returning as a luxury service—an experience that separates average barbershops from elite grooming destinations.
At barber schools like Uppercuts Barber Academy, students are being trained in this craft as a core part of the curriculum. And it’s not just about honoring the past. Straight razor shaving is profitable, marketable, and deeply valued by modern clients seeking both nostalgia and top-tier service.
What Makes It Special
1. The Experience Starts Before the Razor A premium shave begins with atmosphere. Dimmed lights, essential oil-infused steam towels, classical music or lo-fi beats in the background. It’s all about helping the client unwind. These sensory cues create a powerful first impression.
A warm towel opens the pores and softens the hair. Adding a drop of eucalyptus or sandalwood oil not only enhances the experience but provides antiseptic and soothing benefits for the skin.
2. The Ritual of Preparation Professional barbers apply a pre-shave oil to protect the skin, followed by a rich lather applied with a boar bristle or synthetic shaving brush. The circular motion of the brush lifts hairs and exfoliates the skin gently. You’ll see this process detailed in guides from companies like The Art of Shaving, which specialize in high-end grooming products.
3. The Blade Itself The straight razor isn’t a tool—it’s an instrument. The right angle, pressure, and direction must be mastered. The first pass goes with the grain, followed by a second pass across or against it, depending on the client’s tolerance. It’s a blend of science and art, and barber school is where you get to master the skill hands-on.
4. The Finishing Touches Post-shave care is essential. A cool towel calms the skin and tightens the pores. Aftershaves containing witch hazel or natural antiseptics prevent irritation and add a refreshing scent. Use of a light moisturizer ensures the skin is soothed and hydrated.
Why It’s Making a Comeback
1. Premium Services = Higher Revenue Straight razor shaves are among the highest-priced services in most shops. You can charge $40–$70+ depending on your market. Why? Because the client isn’t just paying for hair removal—they’re paying for 30 minutes of escape, luxury, and craftsmanship.
2. It’s Social Media Gold There’s a reason hot towel and razor videos rack up views on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. They’re visually satisfying and emotionally engaging. If you’re building a brand, showcasing your straight razor skills can give your feed a serious boost.
3. It Builds Authority Not every barber can give a perfect straight razor shave. When you offer this service, you separate yourself from the amateurs. Clients respect the precision—and they come back for it. It creates a perception of professionalism and deepens trust.
4. The Male Grooming Market Is Growing According to Statista, the male grooming market is expanding rapidly. Services like beard trims, facials, and straight razor shaves are at the forefront of that trend. Barbers who tap into this demand early are building client bases that are willing to spend more for specialized services.
How to Offer It Like a Pro
- Train with mentors at your barber school who specialize in classic techniques.
- Start with friends and offer discounted shaves for practice.
- Record every step and build an online portfolio.
- Upsell your straight razor shave with beard treatments or skincare add-ons.
Pro Tip: Every straight razor shave is a performance. Treat it like one. From towel prep to final pat-down, every step should be deliberate and refined. Clients notice the little things.
For Barber Students: Don’t skip mastering this service. It’s not a relic—it’s your competitive edge. Adding straight razor shaving to your skillset opens the door to higher earnings, more loyal clients, and a reputation as a true grooming professional.
