Thread: applying shaving cream - barbers using hands?

I have beeen wtching videos of straight razor shaves. I noticed in the videos of barbers giving the shaves, they use their hands tp apply the shaving cream. Why don't they use a brush?

Multiple Customers = Multiple Brushes

Yeah, the only way they could use a brush would be to use a disposable one, or, they would have to cover the brush with a rubber glove or a condom. You decide!

oh, I see. This is a sanitation thing - same reason they have to use disposable razors!

thanks!

Don't most of them use a "Hot Lather Machine" and not bother with the brush?

/Would they use a brush and soap if a customer brought it with them I wonder?

I have talked with a couple of local barbers one uses a lather machine and his hands, the other uses a brush and soap. I don't know if that is always the case (I assume not). I have also seen more than one video where the barber applies the majority of the lather with the brush, then substitutes his hand for the upper lip and around sideburns.

applying it with their hands helps them to map out your beard for them.

I am a barber. It is illegal for us to use brushes due to sanitary issues. If a customer were to bring in his personal brush or buy one from me I would have no problem using it because there is no risk of cross contamination.

It is not illegal to use traditional straight razors in some states, it is legal in Michigan and I prefer it to a disposable blade straight.

I checked into the laws in NY. There is no mention of straight razors or strops anywhere, but mugs (and I believe brushes too) are expressly prohibited.

Amusing thought occurred to me
Try applying shave cream with a condom over your shave brush
I'd like to see that ... for sure it would be funny

Originally Posted by Utopian

Yeah, the only way they could use a brush would be to use a disposable one, or, they would have to cover the brush with a rubber glove or a condom. You decide!