Why a Hot Towel Straight Shave Feels So Good
- Jun 27
- 2 min read
I often walk by a medispa business listing one of the options on their sandwich board: dermaplaning. When I actually stopped to think and research what the procedure is, the benefits of the hot towel straight shave that a barber provides became obviously beneficial.
To be clear, a straight razor is not a dermaplane. The information out there is adamant on that. Dermaplaning is a clinical procedure; shaving is cosmetic. We all know that the definitions of what is medical and what is cosmetic change, and that it can be personal, and that essays could be written on the topic. However, the facts are. The razor itself is different. One is performed dry, the other wet. The goal of shaving is to remove thick facial hair. The goal of dermaplaning is to remove the first layer of skin, resulting in smoother, clearer, tighter, fresher skin. (One anchor benefit is that the skin accepts lotions and potions more effectively.) The angle and flexibility of the blades differ. Although first performed in a dermatologist’s clinic, dermaplaning is now even sold as a DIY kit—basically dry shaving yourself with a scalpel. Much like how shaving became almost exclusively at-home with the invention of the disposable razor blade.
It’s exciting that men are rediscovering the barbershop shave. Like a good medispa experience, it’s better than doing it yourself. The pampering, relaxation, and luxury of the whole professional service are well worth it. A hot towel straight shave does remove some skin cells. Although dermaplaning is deeper, shaving exhibits some of the same benefits. It’s not going to level out acne scarring, but it does make our faces feel and look fresher. There are biological reasons for this. But really, after a shave, skin tightens, and it just generally looks healthier and newer.
We look good! We feel alive. And a great barbershop service only makes it better. A place to relax. A place to recline! A place to be taken care of. Cleaning and preparing the skin. Massages. Hot towels! Scents. Scrubs. Serums. Steam. All the before, after, and extra stuff really helps with the glow. You’ll step out, and your face will feel more sensitive. You'll notice the breeze. And you’ll feel like you can take life on again.
For the nerds:
Check out this service, it includes a forehead shave. That’s low-key dermaplaning.
