A shaving brush is one of the best tools to achieve a smooth, close shave.

• Used by top barbers to facilitate the optimum shave

• A good shaving brush lifts the beard away from the face, generates a fine, rich, creamy lather without too much aeration and helps remove dead skin cells, making a close shave easier. Only the shave crème in contact with skin and beard matters, all else is wasted!

• A good brush is essential: the bristles must be the right balance between resistance to lift the beard and softness to generate a fine, rich creamy lather

• Shaving Stand: Drying the brush on the stand is the most hygienic and helps prolong the life of the bristles

• Italy is a great source for the finest shaving brushes, where they have the traditional Barbieri (barber)

1. Before using the brush for the first-time wash with soap and water and then rinse in clean water. When you are ready to shave, immerse bristles in clean, warm water and shake off excess.

2. Apply Shave crème to the side of the wet brush or in the palm of a wet hand. Generate fine, rich creamy lather and distribute about the moistened area to be shaved in a circular motion (you may need to use a little more shave crème with a new shaving brush).

3. For a smooth feeling — shave again. There may be enough crème left on the brush (another benefit of using a good quality shaving brush) or if not, just add a little more shave crème.

4. Rinse the brush in clean water after use and shake off excess (don’t use water that is too hot or leave in water). Always dry your brush by hanging on the stand provided. The bristles should always dry down and away from the handle as this helps promote the longevity of the bristles and is most hygienic.