It's amazing how a video from two years ago is still just as relevant today. As a new wet shaver (2 months) I enjoy being a sponge and absorbing all of the OG's information.
Kind of glad I found this channel. I'm embarrassed to admit I'm 41 and just learning about soaps and creams and butters. I've use nothing but those stupid gels and cheap disposable razors my entire life. 🤷♂️
Same here mate. I'm 42 and learning about this stuff. Been wet shaving for the last 20 years. But was using inferior cheap razors and OK blades. Hated shaving man. But I now use an Edwin Jagger DE89 and good Wilkinson Swords or Personna Blue and shaving has become a hobby.
Just thought I would give you guys an update: one year later and I'm shaving with razors, proraso cream, and brushes. Never going back to using gels and disposable razors. No regrets.
I'm 50 this year. And to be honest I never knew you lathered up soap like that. Always wanted to know how the professionals got that thick lather. Hey thanks for the video
I tend to use the proaso shaving tubes and all I do is put some straight onto my brush and work a lather straight onto my face, this works very well too.
Hey Geo - thank for the great video. I love Proraso products and was about to give up on the shave soap until this video. I just followed your tips and got some of the thickest, richest , creamy shave lather to date. My grandpa Sal used Proraso since the 40's and my dad used it as well. Salute!
Thanks geo I’m 21 and have had problems using the disposable razors since I have been saving due to acne scares and sensitive skin. Started using a double edge of a couple months both safety and straight razor with no problem thanks to your videos. Anyone on the edge of try this I definitely recommend.
Bought an Omega boar bristle shaving brush about 3 months back for ~$8, been using it every day. Takes a bit to break it in but once the hairs start to split and the smells goes away it works like a charm. You can't do better for the price.
Super new to shaving with a safety razor and I’m just starting to learn about all these products. Bro I’m 45 years old and I’ve been using Gillette Mach 3 for plenty of years and just wasting money. Never really thought about having any pleasure in shaving it was more about just getting the job done. I do find myself spending a bit of time watching these kinds of videos and it is quite entertaining And educational. I’m all about the best bang for the buck. I Purchased the Merkur 23C and love it and after a few uses I actually don’t see myself ever going back. Thanks for the good info.
I've used that red proraso shaving soap for years and always thought the smell was too strong - I didn't realize I wasn't lathering it enough, and I tried it today and you were absolutely right! Thank you :)
I used to be a water treatment engineer in Chicago. For what it’s worth like Michigan surface water, and the entire Great Lakes basin water is considered to be some of the best, if not the best quality water for human use and consumption. We just consider it normal drinking water, but the calcium and magnesium levels are really excellent for a bunch of uses. Happy shaving!
This is just great. I went to Palermo in late November/early December and forgot to take any shaving gear. At a mini-mart, I found some Proraso cream and a brush and I love it. I love it and this video shows how to get the most out of it,
I bought my first safety razor From his site, had three shaves so far. Managed to cut myself every single time. Totally different experience using a safety razor, I enjoy it a lot, just can’t wait till I get on this guys level. Makes it look so easy and no cuts lol
Been using Proraso green (Refreshing and Toning) for 3 months and I’m hooked. My regiment is (1) use Proraso pre-shave cream, (2) Proraso soap (3) merkur futur shave (4) Proraso after-shave lotion (not the balm). Not only do I use Proraso on my face, but also my head. Always a great lather and really protects the skin. Nice cool refreshing sensation. Great video!
Thanks Wolf! HGH... Hater's Gonna Hate! It's a fact of life. I do it for the other 158 people who thumbs-upped it until this point in time. My videos have been viewed over 9 million times so I think I'm on the right path :)
For what it's worth, if people are still having trouble lathering the soaps/creams, it is most likely the hard water content. I recommend using filtered or purified water instead. It makes all the difference in the world.
Proraso is a generally “thirstier” cream as well, at least in the green tube. If you’re still having trouble getting it to lather one could try passing the brush under hot running water for a fraction of a second to give it a bit more moisture to “bloom”. Don’t overdo it, I usually only do this once in the middle of lathering, of course starting with a brush that’s been soaked in hot water while I shower - don’t forget to shake it out, you want the moisture that it retained from soaking, not the excess just trapped in between the bristles to start your lather!
Proraso was the first cream I used but I've gone back to it recently, I now use the whole line of products the pre shave cream was a game changer for me, it really makes a difference and sets you up for a great shave.I can see why so many Barbers swear by it.
Thanks for the video. I haven't been getting much of a lather. But I see from your video that I haven't been squeezing out enough into the bowl & haven't been whipping it up enough. Very helpful to see it done right.
I use the Proraso green line. It does really well for me, but you do have to be generous with it and it can be a bit thirsty. Not a terrible cream, and right now it's my favorite especially if you aren't into spending a ton on soaps/creams and pre-shaves. The green line after shave is also pretty nice.
Thank you for making these videos Geo! We have so many options like Amazon etc. available now, but they don't offer these kinds of tips & videos like you do. As I've just run out of shaving cream, I went ahead and ordered some Proraso (as well as some others!) from your store :). Keep on doing your thing-- we appreciate ya!
Hi Geophatboy from San Diego California, I enjoy seeing all your wonderful videos and tips. Thanks for always giving a clear answer in using the shaving products you show Sir. Can't wait to see more shave videos!
Great video. I find it hard to believe people have much trouble lathering Proraso. I recommend it to everyone based on the fact its one of the easiest soaps to lather.
@@geofatboy It is a bit more difficult to use then English style creams. You need a bit more real barber technique for proraso. I can imagine new users would get confused a little bit and find it hard. They don't know what the consistency should be on creams and soaps. Also they don't know how much hot water to use and when to keep the cream a little warmer using drops of hot water to help reactivate it and build a slick warm layer of cream. Proraso is quite unique as when I cut my own hair I like to use proraso shave cream to shave with. Makes me feel I just paid for a 50quid shave and hair cut. During the week I like using the gentler milder English creams. For a newbie it is complicated. All my friends complain about their skin spots and shaving. I told them a million times to have a free shaving lesson with me when we are chilling. I think they get the hump as they feel small when it comes to sharing skills or learning off someone that knows what they are doing. One of my serious hobbies is shaving since I found the good stuff. People can't believe I cut my own hair and I use all this real gear.
I live in Nothern Virginia, I was in Burlington Coat Factory store at Potomac Mills. I found a tube of the sandalwood creme for $4.99. Damn I wish there was more than one, that's a great price
I’m brand new to this type of shaving and I recieved the proraso soap in the mail today along w a 345 soap. I had more trouble getting the 345 to lather than i did w the proraso for some reason.
geofatboy 😂😂😂 I think ur right. I guess to be fair I did watch work on the proraso while watching the video and had tried the 345 before watching 😂😂😂 but I like ur answer better
To me, Proraso Green is a staple I have to use regularly, like my favorite hamburger (Thanks, I'll pass on the fancy restaurant tonight, just have my comfort food and watch a movie. The soap works as well as any other, well maybe a little less well but still just fine. I enjoy perpetuating a tradition guys have been passing on for so many years. And I like the tingle.
Great video Geo unlike others out there that whine about the ingredient list and the supposedly adverse reaction to their skin, I find Proraso to be top of the line and at a great price!
Noticed your comment and thought it was a very good one. Anyone with skin problems or allergic problems should always do a skin test before hoeing in and then complaining. That goes for every product they want to use from pre shave products right through to post shave. The other thing is that all tools should be really cleaned well so that bacteria doesn’t become another problem.
Dude I can only grow a goatee and some patches and Im over 30(damn native genes) but I love your style and presentation. You have a good presence for youtube!
Great video. Am glad you chose to demonstrate Proraso products, because I love the ones I've used. That wide alum stick looks great too. It would be really good for those who use alum for a deodorant as well.
For beginners, do you recommend Cream or Soap? Also, thank you for making these videos. I wish I had found you 11 years ago when I first started having to shave. Instead, I just struggled to figure it out myself. Really man, aside from being entertaining and informative you're doing many people a service. You're doing the job a lot of Absentee fathers like mine should have done and teaching young men how to shave. It's commendable.
Definitely SHAVING CREAM. I'm telling you this after 31 years of shaving in which I used both foam and gel. But you get the best shave with SHAVING CREAM.
@@mariussandu3382 appreciate it, Ive been using water and disposable razors for the past few years but Im trying to make the commitment now to find a natural and healthy high end regiment I could start. And your feedback along with others has been helpful. If you have any product recommendations I’d appreciate it.
Proraso are the best, glad they are so popular outside Italy. Here in Italy they are both cheap and loved at the same time, you can find everywhere in malls or convenient stores. I just get the white cream for 1.90€
Just used Proraso Red Shaving Cream in a tube. Oh my god - this stuff is amazing. Only 1/2 tsp is needed for a luxurious 3 pass shave. It is ridiculously fast and easy to make a lather. Great close shave.
Not sure how I came across this video, but glad I did. I feel your personal care time should be enjoyable and relaxing, from the look of the shower and your shave routine, you have figured that out too.
I always have used cartridge blades and foam from a can. I recently started with a safety razor and genuine soap. Boy , have I been missing out ! Yes it takes longer but it is so much more enjoyable.
I bought a couple different Proraso products in the "Red" series, such as the cream, soap, as well as the pre-shave, since you mentioned that they have been around for quite a long time (1920's) and all of them are great, not expensive at all either. Also, since you mentioned your "Simpson's Chubby" brush, which I hadn't heard of until you mentioned it here, and you mentioned how it would be "too easy" to use the Chubby brush, I decided to get one.. It's a "Chubby 2" and a little expensive, but you aren't kidding. The first time I used that brush, I had huge amount of great lather (used it with the cream and your Shave Nation "Bumpy" bowl) that I could've probably shaved my whole head 2 or 3 times (which I do shave my face and head, and it was absolutely great on both) So thank you for posting these videos about the different products, how to use them, etc. They are a huge help. One last thing before I go. I noteice that you are using a smooth Shave Nation Lather Bowl in the video, but I was wondering, since I have the "Bumpy" bowl, if there are any particular techniques in using it, or particular products you would suggest using with it bring out more of a performance unique to style (bumpy)? Again, thank you for posting the video, and I look forward to seeing / learning more about the different products that can make "shaving time" more relaxing and enjoyable. :)
Hee, hee - I DO like geofatboy's presenting style...! Suitably self-deprecating, doesn't appear to take himself overly seriously, but always gives great, knowledgable information. Cheers mate! 👍.
Holy shit you shave fast! I just got my first DE this week and have only used it twice so I'm just learning, watching you go so fast was making me nervous, I hope I get my confidence and skill up soon!
That's great, thanks. I'm 68 and just started shaving with a real razor about 6 months ago (Rockwell razor & Feather double edge blades with Proraso products). Some good info here to help me refine my technique, thanks again.
Incredible skill! Thank you for this video. Just had my first shave with Proraso today (red cream) and it was fantastic. No weepers, no irritation. I used one of the Müle razors with a Feather blade inside. You're obviously highly skilled but I notice you do not stretch your skin with the other hand much. Is this because you have a fortunate beard growth direction? I have a full "rose" under my chin and boy does it take some effort to get that smooth. Maybe I'll just get better with years. Cheers!
I didn’t know you are a Chicago guy. I refuse to do business with anyone but you now lol. Just ordered a few supplies from you and noticed the origin was Elk Grove. You’ve got a life long customer now.
Proraso brush is pure awesomness - cheap, very good out of the box, pretty short break-in period to whole potential, holds up enough lather for 5-6 passes easily, nice flowthrough, excellent for both face/bowl lathering - my favourite boar brush
Hi Geo. Another great video, as always. I am surprised you got comments of people having trouble lathering Proraso. I find that one of the easier soaps/creams to lather out of all I have tried. It lacks in slickness and post shave but is great on lathering.
Thanks Chris, I think they weren't using enough water and it was drying out on them. It's always easier watching someone do something and following along. Especially for newcomers.
crush up non-coated aspirin and run on your face and neck after you shave (you can leave on for a while and then wash off). Walmart and amazon also sells a great product called bump control - best version is the enhanced strength that comes in dark blue plastic bottle. It has aspirin and I think some apple cider vinegar in it. I use that right after I shave and then before I go to bed on any areas prone to irritation. It does a great job quickly getting rid of in grown hairs.
Here are a couple: shavenation.com/collections/alum-styptic-1/products/andis-bump-care-irritation-relief-12oz shavenation.com/collections/alum-styptic-1/products/clubman-bump-repair-post-shave-gel
Wet shaver from Antioch IL here. Enjoy your videos and love Proraso Green and Blue cremes. I have found using more creme (3" long strip in my bowl) and a very wet brush does the trick. That alum stick is awesome....Never seen one like that. I'll buy one when I order my new razor from Shave Nation.
Hey brother. Your lather looks like wipping cream, while mine looks like barely there. I might as well be dry shaving! I work it till my arm gets tired but no luck...it sucks! Any tips from anyone will help. I have a fancy mug that you put the hot water inside, and just got a new bagger brush.
@@geofatboy I do use distilled. I think my new boar brush has helped some along with different soap. I'm not giving up yet! Keep making the videos and riding the Fatboy!
Hello Geo, used this product with 6 different razors /blade combo's and still broke out. I used Williams and Palmolive for years with no problems. I wish I could send it back or give it away. Thanks for all your video's and stay safe.
I really love your videos! I love how you start out clean shaven and grow several days growth right before the demonstration! Ha! Your videos are informative and fun. Thanks.
Thanks for this because you give better advice than the lady at the shaver shop as she told me to use the pre shave cream to shave with and I couldn't work out how to create the lather. Now I realise I only put a bit of it on the skin and still need shaving cream. If my question is, is pre shave cream an alternative to pre shave oil? I get a lot of cuts if I don't use oil or pre shave.
great videos works with any soaps. I first used the dove shea butter bar.
cut the whole bar. put the cut-up bar in a van der Hagen shave mug. add water to the mug with the soap inside the mug. make sure to cover the soap with water completely microwave 30 sec at a time one minute . don't let the soap bubble out of the mug? stop it cool for a sec or two? do it again? it will congeal. leave in a sunny spot the water will be gone in a week or so? the soap hardened in place in the mug. don't get the soap or mug to hot a little at a time easy does it wheelchair Larry
Thank you - I found this very helpful - I have a young disabled adult son who I now have to shave. My husband has always had a beard and my two other son's are not around to show me how to shave - a couple of questions - what is the alum for? any chance of you making a video on how to shave someone else - for instance for caregivers who take care of intellectually and developmentally disabled adults?
Mrs Felak, I hope that you don't mind me offering some insight. I doubt I could do as good a job as Geo but I'll try! Potassium alum is a white crystalline mineral which has antiseptic and astringent properties. It can be applied to the face after shaving to soothe the skin. It is also a very effective styptic. One can simply wet the alum block and rub it over any nicks or cuts to stop the bleeding almost instantly. For these reasons a lot of gents carry some as part of their shaving kit. I'm afraid I don't have any experience of shaving other people. However there are some very nice people in the wet shaving community that might be able to offer some advice. There are a few channels like this on UA-cam and also the forums on Badger and Blade where you might also be able to pose such a question. Best wishes.
Nice video. I have a merkur futur i dont like its to clumpy so im having problems getting all the hair especially around my lips. Im using feather blades and feel a little sore afterwards. Can you recomend a kind to medium aggressiv safety razor that works well with feather blades?
Great video, I use Proraso because I see it being used in a lot of really good barber shops, I think that and your videos made me a happy customer, Thank You.
Thanks! Good video. I’m going to try Proraso for the first time. I’m just going to use my old shave soap mug until I can get one of those bowls you have there.
Proraso is great, I'd recommend it to anyone (new to wetshaving). The entire product range is a winner. Personally I enjoy the Bianca (white) series the most.
Jaime Durban Yes. It is normal. Proraso has a strong menthol. It is not for everybody. But people who are looking for extremely fresh and tingling sensation, Proraso is ideal.
Neither, since Italian cuisine is mainly famous for relying on pork, not beef. And gyros are a Greek dish, not Italian. What you really are thinking of is Italian sausage. Proscuitto especially.
Another useful video: thanks! I'm jealous of your bathroom: nice high ceilings, elegant furnishings, etc. What are the walls covered in? Final question: is your shaving bowl slippery when wet?
At first I was sadened after trying the Proraso green cream because it irritated my face. I really enjoyed the smell and the way it lathered. So I continued using it instead of tossing it away. I found out if I rinsed it off completely with warm water before closing my pores with cold water I can avoid the irritation.
Man if you can't lather Proraso you're seriously doing something wrong, it's one of the easiest products to lather. Using that much of the cream is just wasting it. I only use a quarter of that for a 2 pass shave and build the lather on my face. It makes a beautiful lather and 1 tube has lasted me a full year of shaves.
I was gonna say ... If I can use an old $0.59 disposable hog hair paint brush and get perfectly adequate performance without a bowl, I don't know what people expect.
Buddha Mack Holy Crap! that’s a long time I am a beginner to classic shaving and I just got my first tub of Proraso Red today so you’re saying if I don’t over do it, it will last a long time?
Buddha Mack each to their own. I lather directly onto the face as well but a lot of people use the bowl. In fact a lot of Italians use Proraso as their go to product and use a bowl.
On the subject of lathering creams, I fully agree. I've only messed with creams that are already in tubs, and for those I just run the very tips of my brush bristles through it to pick some cream up, and either lather directly on my face or take it to a bowl. A REALLY small amount of that stuff goes a really long way.
okay, then you starte you are loading the brush with soap you create a mesh, you just let stay on the soap to next time you use. i ask all these stupid question because i just got my first de shave today.
thank you for the help, i only got 4 very small hick, on my first shave today, never had as good a shave and smooth skind as i got now.. I hook on Double edge shaving.. i Got a Muhle Rytmo with Muhle blade. works great on my skind no burn just perfection. did have make 5 passes to get it all, but guess the will get better more practice i get with it..
I usually turn the tub upside down and run water over the bottom, to clean the jar, then let it dry with the cap off overnight.Then, if not using it the next day, covering it back up and on to the shelf it goes for next time.
so, what are the differences between using a straight or safety razor? My cheeks aren't prone to irritation or bumps, but my neck area is extremely sensitive. What should i use?
- from Chicago
- looks Italian af
- uses Proraso
this dude has used a tommy gun
Probably never touched canned pasta sauce in his life.
Prolly former military too, he said hit the deck.
Lol 😂
LMAO! Mafioso :D Mafia II
I believe he's originally Greek. But hey close enough...
22 years old and I’m really getting into wet shaving. Love how helpful this channel is! Keep it up!
Thanks Triston-Greatly appreciated.
It's amazing how a video from two years ago is still just as relevant today. As a new wet shaver (2 months) I enjoy being a sponge and absorbing all of the OG's information.
It probably will be relevant after 20 years
@@ozmobozo I agree with that Ozzy. Awesome name, btw!
Two more years 🎉
Hello there
Timeless vs timely….
Kind of glad I found this channel. I'm embarrassed to admit I'm 41 and just learning about soaps and creams and butters. I've use nothing but those stupid gels and cheap disposable razors my entire life. 🤷♂️
Never too late to start.
Same here mate. I'm 42 and learning about this stuff. Been wet shaving for the last 20 years. But was using inferior cheap razors and OK blades. Hated shaving man.
But I now use an Edwin Jagger DE89 and good Wilkinson Swords or Personna Blue and shaving has become a hobby.
Don't be ashamed. I'm 40 and just got my first brush and tube of proraso today.
Me too.
Just thought I would give you guys an update: one year later and I'm shaving with razors, proraso cream, and brushes. Never going back to using gels and disposable razors. No regrets.
I haven't shaved in 2 days, and instead of shaving I watch this guy shave for 15 minutes? How did I end up on this part of the internet?
i'm crying with laughter. great comment.
😂😂😂
I'm 50 this year. And to be honest I never knew you lathered up soap like that. Always wanted to know how the professionals got that thick lather. Hey thanks for the video
1:44 nice clean shave - 1:47 damn you beard grows fast!!
he aint bagavathy baasha
I've heard it said that Geofatboy has to shave 40 times a day
@@anandakumar8218 bro what are you talking about 😂
This is why you don't DIY testosterone replacement therapy.
I tend to use the proaso shaving tubes and all I do is put some straight onto my brush and work a lather straight onto my face, this works very well too.
Hey Geo - thank for the great video. I love Proraso products and was about to give up on the shave soap until this video. I just followed your tips and got some of the thickest, richest , creamy shave lather to date. My grandpa Sal used Proraso since the 40's and my dad used it as well. Salute!
Thanks geo I’m 21 and have had problems using the disposable razors since I have been saving due to acne scares and sensitive skin. Started using a double edge of a couple months both safety and straight razor with no problem thanks to your videos. Anyone on the edge of try this I definitely recommend.
Bought an Omega boar bristle shaving brush about 3 months back for ~$8, been using it every day. Takes a bit to break it in but once the hairs start to split and the smells goes away it works like a charm. You can't do better for the price.
Got my first safety razor from Geo. This man taught me to shave properly!
Super new to shaving with a safety razor and I’m just starting to learn about all these products. Bro I’m 45 years old and I’ve been using Gillette Mach 3 for plenty of years and just wasting money.
Never really thought about having any pleasure in shaving it was more about just getting the job done. I do find myself spending a bit of time watching these kinds of videos and it is quite entertaining And educational. I’m all about the best bang for the buck. I Purchased the Merkur 23C and love it and after a few uses I actually don’t see myself ever going back. Thanks for the good info.
I've used that red proraso shaving soap for years and always thought the smell was too strong - I didn't realize I wasn't lathering it enough, and I tried it today and you were absolutely right! Thank you :)
I used to be a water treatment engineer in Chicago. For what it’s worth like Michigan surface water, and the entire Great Lakes basin water is considered to be some of the best, if not the best quality water for human use and consumption.
We just consider it normal drinking water, but the calcium and magnesium levels are really excellent for a bunch of uses. Happy shaving!
This is just great. I went to Palermo in late November/early December and forgot to take any shaving gear. At a mini-mart, I found some Proraso cream and a brush and I love it. I love it and this video shows how to get the most out of it,
I bought my first safety razor From his site, had three shaves so far. Managed to cut myself every single time. Totally different experience using a safety razor, I enjoy it a lot, just can’t wait till I get on this guys level. Makes it look so easy and no cuts lol
Has your shaving improved since?
Been using Proraso green (Refreshing and Toning) for 3 months and I’m hooked. My regiment is (1) use Proraso pre-shave cream, (2) Proraso soap (3) merkur futur shave (4) Proraso after-shave lotion (not the balm). Not only do I use Proraso on my face, but also my head. Always a great lather and really protects the skin. Nice cool refreshing sensation. Great video!
Don't know why anyone would "thumbs down" this video. It has very good advice and instructions. Thank You.
Thanks Wolf! HGH... Hater's Gonna Hate! It's a fact of life. I do it for the other 158 people who thumbs-upped it until this point in time. My videos have been viewed over 9 million times so I think I'm on the right path :)
For what it's worth, if people are still having trouble lathering the soaps/creams, it is most likely the hard water content. I recommend using filtered or purified water instead. It makes all the difference in the world.
thanks bro. i'll try distilled water
is bottled water ok?
christine black I think so
Good point
Proraso is a generally “thirstier” cream as well, at least in the green tube. If you’re still having trouble getting it to lather one could try passing the brush under hot running water for a fraction of a second to give it a bit more moisture to “bloom”. Don’t overdo it, I usually only do this once in the middle of lathering, of course starting with a brush that’s been soaked in hot water while I shower - don’t forget to shake it out, you want the moisture that it retained from soaking, not the excess just trapped in between the bristles to start your lather!
Proraso was the first cream I used but I've gone back to it recently, I now use the whole line of products the pre shave cream was a game changer for me, it really makes a difference and sets you up for a great shave.I can see why so many Barbers swear by it.
What does the pre-shave cream do for you?
@@eman2517 Makes his pockets lighter and bank account slimmer.
@@RaduRadonys😂
This is like asmr lol I started to fall asleep like I was in the barber chair. Great job !!!!!
Thanks for the video. I haven't been getting much of a lather. But I see from your video that I haven't been squeezing out enough into the bowl & haven't been whipping it up enough. Very helpful to see it done right.
Been shaving for 12 years now. I've never been shown how to do it properly until now. I'll make sure my sons learn the right way.
Thanks Braidon! Share the Love!
I use the Proraso green line. It does really well for me, but you do have to be generous with it and it can be a bit thirsty. Not a terrible cream, and right now it's my favorite especially if you aren't into spending a ton on soaps/creams and pre-shaves. The green line after shave is also pretty nice.
omg that bathroom is gorgeous!
It's just a photo though
+PretentiousRed haha damn got me
too dark for my taste but i agree it looks high quality.
Lol yeah. The guys probs in a caravan.
Shit, I couldn't even tell it was a photo. The unmoving candle flames should have tipped me off.
Thank you for making these videos Geo! We have so many options like Amazon etc. available now, but they don't offer these kinds of tips & videos like you do. As I've just run out of shaving cream, I went ahead and ordered some Proraso (as well as some others!) from your store :). Keep on doing your thing-- we appreciate ya!
Thanks very much Steve, We appreciate your support at shavenation.com/ And yes - I will keep putting videos out!
Classic Green Prorasso is one of the most classic scents around.
Actually time tested since 1906
Hi Geophatboy from San Diego California, I enjoy seeing all your wonderful videos and tips. Thanks for always giving a clear answer in using the shaving products you show Sir. Can't wait to see more shave videos!
What a beautiful, tasteful bathroom. Really calming stone colour palette.
Hell, you sold me on it. Just ordered some. I’ve been shaving the wrong way for all my life. This is a new world to me and I’m loving it so far ❤
Great video. I find it hard to believe people have much trouble lathering Proraso. I recommend it to everyone based on the fact its one of the easiest soaps to lather.
Yep, it's great soap, I think some of the newcomers needed a little assistance.
+geofatboy yup....they are over thinking it
@@geofatboy
It is a bit more difficult to use then English style creams. You need a bit more real barber technique for proraso. I can imagine new users would get confused a little bit and find it hard. They don't know what the consistency should be on creams and soaps. Also they don't know how much hot water to use and when to keep the cream a little warmer using drops of hot water to help reactivate it and build a slick warm layer of cream. Proraso is quite unique as when I cut my own hair I like to use proraso shave cream to shave with. Makes me feel I just paid for a 50quid shave and hair cut. During the week I like using the gentler milder English creams. For a newbie it is complicated. All my friends complain about their skin spots and shaving. I told them a million times to have a free shaving lesson with me when we are chilling. I think they get the hump as they feel small when it comes to sharing skills or learning off someone that knows what they are doing. One of my serious hobbies is shaving since I found the good stuff. People can't believe I cut my own hair and I use all this real gear.
I live in Nothern Virginia, I was in Burlington Coat Factory store at Potomac Mills. I found a tube of the sandalwood creme for $4.99. Damn I wish there was more than one, that's a great price
I’m brand new to this type of shaving and I recieved the proraso soap in the mail today along w a 345 soap. I had more trouble getting the 345 to lather than i did w the proraso for some reason.
Maybe it's 345 times harder to lather than Proraso 😂
geofatboy 😂😂😂 I think ur right. I guess to be fair I did watch work on the proraso while watching the video and had tried the 345 before watching 😂😂😂 but I like ur answer better
To me, Proraso Green is a staple I have to use regularly, like my favorite hamburger (Thanks, I'll pass on the fancy restaurant tonight, just have my comfort food and watch a movie. The soap works as well as any other, well maybe a little less well but still just fine. I enjoy perpetuating a tradition guys have been passing on for so many years. And I like the tingle.
It's been around for a long time... For good reason. good and reasonably priced. And... Those Tingles!
Been using Proraso green for 15 years now. Love it. Use it on my head and face
1:45
Damn, never seen someone grow a beard that fast. Pure manlyness from GFB like we know him!
Damn, im so baked i didn't notice.
Great video Geo unlike others out there that whine about the ingredient list and the supposedly adverse reaction to their skin, I find Proraso to be top of the line and at a great price!
Noticed your comment and thought it was a very good one. Anyone with skin problems or allergic problems should always do a skin test before hoeing in and then complaining. That goes for every product they want to use from pre shave products right through to post shave. The other thing is that all tools should be really cleaned well so that bacteria doesn’t become another problem.
I wish I'd found you before trying my first safety razor shave! Will be watching ALL of your videos now! Thanks Geo!
Nice! Only about 289 to go! Enjoy.
Dude I can only grow a goatee and some patches and Im over 30(damn native genes) but I love your style and presentation. You have a good presence for youtube!
Great video. Am glad you chose to demonstrate Proraso products, because I love the ones I've used. That wide alum stick looks great too. It would be really good for those who use alum for a deodorant as well.
Thanks Don! I usually recommend getting 2 wide sticks: one for the face and one for the underarms-not to be mixed :) For obvious reasons.
For beginners, do you recommend Cream or Soap? Also, thank you for making these videos. I wish I had found you 11 years ago when I first started having to shave. Instead, I just struggled to figure it out myself. Really man, aside from being entertaining and informative you're doing many people a service. You're doing the job a lot of Absentee fathers like mine should have done and teaching young men how to shave. It's commendable.
Thanks very much for your kind words and support! I'll keep putting them out there!
Definitely SHAVING CREAM. I'm telling you this after 31 years of shaving in which I used both foam and gel. But you get the best shave with SHAVING CREAM.
@@mariussandu3382 appreciate it, Ive been using water and disposable razors for the past few years but Im trying to make the commitment now to find a natural and healthy high end regiment I could start. And your feedback along with others has been helpful. If you have any product recommendations I’d appreciate it.
@@mariussandu3382I get the best results with tallow based shave soap like Cella or Arko.
Proraso are the best, glad they are so popular outside Italy.
Here in Italy they are both cheap and loved at the same time, you can find everywhere in malls or convenient stores. I just get the white cream for 1.90€
I'm moving to Italy!
Just used Proraso Red Shaving Cream in a tube. Oh my god - this stuff is amazing. Only 1/2 tsp is needed for a luxurious 3 pass shave. It is ridiculously fast and easy to make a lather. Great close shave.
Great video Geo! The Muhle r89 twist along with the Proraso red are getting lots of mileage! Great suggestion on both fantastic products. Thank you!!
Thanks Paul! 👍
Not sure how I came across this video, but glad I did. I feel your personal care time should be enjoyable and relaxing, from the look of the shower and your shave routine, you have figured that out too.
Good stuff!
I always have used cartridge blades and foam from a can. I recently started with a safety razor and genuine soap. Boy , have I been missing out ! Yes it takes longer but it is so much more enjoyable.
Love me some Prorasso. Just recently came across their cremes. Thanks for sharing.
Good stuff-The pride of Italy!
I bought a couple different Proraso products in the "Red" series, such as the cream, soap, as well as the pre-shave, since you mentioned that they have been around for quite a long time (1920's) and all of them are great, not expensive at all either. Also, since you mentioned your "Simpson's Chubby" brush, which I hadn't heard of until you mentioned it here, and you mentioned how it would be "too easy" to use the Chubby brush, I decided to get one.. It's a "Chubby 2" and a little expensive, but you aren't kidding. The first time I used that brush, I had huge amount of great lather (used it with the cream and your Shave Nation "Bumpy" bowl) that I could've probably shaved my whole head 2 or 3 times (which I do shave my face and head, and it was absolutely great on both) So thank you for posting these videos about the different products, how to use them, etc. They are a huge help.
One last thing before I go. I noteice that you are using a smooth Shave Nation Lather Bowl in the video, but I was wondering, since I have the "Bumpy" bowl, if there are any particular techniques in using it, or particular products you would suggest using with it bring out more of a performance unique to style (bumpy)? Again, thank you for posting the video, and I look forward to seeing / learning more about the different products that can make "shaving time" more relaxing and enjoyable. :)
Hee, hee - I DO like geofatboy's presenting style...! Suitably self-deprecating, doesn't appear to take himself overly seriously, but always gives great, knowledgable information. Cheers mate! 👍.
Holy shit you shave fast! I just got my first DE this week and have only used it twice so I'm just learning, watching you go so fast was making me nervous, I hope I get my confidence and skill up soon!
Same bro, I got mine this week and I still have a long way to go in terms of technique
yeah if I go that fast I'll definitely butcher myself to bits
uses italian shaving soap, looks like an italian mobster
:) Classic!
Somebody get him some of that gabagool.
Gotta look your best when going on a hit.
Clean shave is mandatory in Cosa Nostra.So he gets products from Home 🙂
Forgetaboutit
really gets into the nitty gritty with this video, happy that you went against the grain.....nobody does that. Very good video. Thanks!!
Geo with a beautiful bathroom like that. Would love to see the rest of your home!!!
That's great, thanks. I'm 68 and just started shaving with a real razor about 6 months ago (Rockwell razor & Feather double edge blades with Proraso products). Some good info here to help me refine my technique, thanks again.
Incredible skill! Thank you for this video. Just had my first shave with Proraso today (red cream) and it was fantastic. No weepers, no irritation. I used one of the Müle razors with a Feather blade inside.
You're obviously highly skilled but I notice you do not stretch your skin with the other hand much. Is this because you have a fortunate beard growth direction? I have a full "rose" under my chin and boy does it take some effort to get that smooth. Maybe I'll just get better with years.
Cheers!
Practice makes perfect! You'll get there.
I didn’t know you are a Chicago guy. I refuse to do business with anyone but you now lol. Just ordered a few supplies from you and noticed the origin was Elk Grove. You’ve got a life long customer now.
Thanks Jim, we appreciate your support!
Geo which do you prefer, Proraso cream or the soap? and which one leaves the most slickness to your skin? Thanks Geo:)
I use and like both. Cream in a lather bowl and soap right from the jar. Enjoy!
geofatboy thank you Geo:)
I use a Proraso Green tube and it's really good, lathers up well. The menthol leaves the skin feeling cool and refreshing.
i tell you what? great stuff, best 23 quid ive ever spent? thanks again geofatboy.A great product.
Proraso products are so good and reasonably priced. Thanks for a great video it helped me a lot.
Just out of curiosity: which one do you like better, cream or soap?
I switch between both. Wouldn't say I prefer one over the other. There are so so many of each.
@@geofatboy I agree completely! Thank you for the reply 😁
Thank you man! You have made shaving fun and took it to a whole new level for me!
Thanks Chris, that does my heard good!
Proraso brush is pure awesomness - cheap, very good out of the box, pretty short break-in period to whole potential, holds up enough lather for 5-6 passes easily, nice flowthrough, excellent for both face/bowl lathering - my favourite boar brush
Nice review on the Proraso-Omega boar brush. Thanks!
Thanks Geo!
Bought my first wet shaving kit for headshaving because of your videos!
Nice work! How's that working for you?
@@geofatboy proraso cream working wayyy better than the can stuff lol
Hi Geo. Another great video, as always. I am surprised you got comments of people having trouble lathering Proraso. I find that one of the easier soaps/creams to lather out of all I have tried. It lacks in slickness and post shave but is great on lathering.
Thanks Chris, I think they weren't using enough water and it was drying out on them. It's always easier watching someone do something and following along. Especially for newcomers.
Thanks for the video, going to support you by buying one of the shave bowls. Good job man.
Awesome. I just bought the Proraso white tub. I like it, thanks for the tips, you make it look real easy.
Great video! About to use the red Proraso Shaving Soap for the first time!
Good stuff-Enjoy!
great video, as a fellow Chicagoan , I wanted to let you know that we are very lucky our water is some of the best anywhere.
geofatboy can you give any tips or suggestions in regards to ingrown hairs i.e. anyway to get rid of them?
crush up non-coated aspirin and run on your face and neck after you shave (you can leave on for a while and then wash off). Walmart and amazon also sells a great product called bump control - best version is the enhanced strength that comes in dark blue plastic bottle. It has aspirin and I think some apple cider vinegar in it. I use that right after I shave and then before I go to bed on any areas prone to irritation. It does a great job quickly getting rid of in grown hairs.
Here are a couple:
shavenation.com/collections/alum-styptic-1/products/andis-bump-care-irritation-relief-12oz
shavenation.com/collections/alum-styptic-1/products/clubman-bump-repair-post-shave-gel
Wet shaver from Antioch IL here.
Enjoy your videos and love Proraso Green and Blue cremes. I have found using more creme (3" long strip in my bowl) and a very wet brush does the trick. That alum stick is awesome....Never seen one like that. I'll buy one when I order my new razor from Shave Nation.
Big fan of the Proraso Refresh, I love that icy blast I get when I rinse with cold water after shaving with it.
So True!
Forget the soap...How'd you grow yer beard that fast?
Dun Dun Dun.....!
Geo's videos are more relaxing than booze and safer than medication.
Hey brother. Your lather looks like wipping cream, while mine looks like barely there. I might as well be dry shaving! I work it till my arm gets tired but no luck...it sucks! Any tips from anyone will help. I have a fancy mug that you put the hot water inside, and just got a new bagger brush.
Check out a few more lathering videos. Maybe you need to try the distilled water soak technique if you have HARD water.
@@geofatboy I do use distilled. I think my new boar brush has helped some along with different soap. I'm not giving up yet! Keep making the videos and riding the Fatboy!
Great demo on how to shave the way my father, grandfather et al used to do......Now planning to follow suit!
Hello Geo, used this product with 6 different razors /blade combo's and still broke out. I used Williams and Palmolive for years with no problems. I wish I could send it back or give it away. Thanks for all your video's and stay safe.
I really love your videos! I love how you start out clean shaven and grow several days growth right before the demonstration! Ha! Your videos are informative and fun. Thanks.
Thanks Jeff! The magic of reverse videography. I'm glad you love the vids.
Thanks for this because you give better advice than the lady at the shaver shop as she told me to use the pre shave cream to shave with and I couldn't work out how to create the lather. Now I realise I only put a bit of it on the skin and still need shaving cream. If my question is, is pre shave cream an alternative to pre shave oil? I get a lot of cuts if I don't use oil or pre shave.
I have proraso red&green very good soaps,I like how quickly they lather up.I also use the red&green aftershave splash...great way to start the day :)
Excellent choices!
I’m interested in what you’re using as hair cream. Nice
That's an old vid. Recently I've been using... Nothing, and it doesn't bog my hair down like gel does.
great videos works with any soaps.
I first used the dove shea butter bar.
cut the whole bar. put the cut-up bar in a van der Hagen shave mug. add water to the mug with the soap inside the mug. make sure to cover the soap with water completely
microwave 30 sec
at a time one minute .
don't let the soap bubble out of the mug?
stop it cool for a sec or two? do it again?
it will congeal. leave in a sunny spot the water will be gone in a week or so?
the soap hardened in place in the mug.
don't get the soap or mug to hot a little at a time easy does it
wheelchair Larry
Excellent demo. Thanks from the UK 👍.
You became a master on special visual effects too! Great! Nobody seem to have notice the trick, well done ! Next time lets shave on the moon! 😋
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade...
; )
What do you do with the soap when you are done? Do you simply put back the lid on? Or do you do a rinse then put the lid on? Thank you.
Thank you - I found this very helpful - I have a young disabled adult son who I now have to shave. My husband has always had a beard and my two other son's are not around to show me how to shave - a couple of questions - what is the alum for?
any chance of you making a video on how to shave someone else - for instance for caregivers who take care of intellectually and developmentally disabled adults?
Mrs Felak,
I hope that you don't mind me offering some insight. I doubt I could do as good a job as Geo but I'll try!
Potassium alum is a white crystalline mineral which has antiseptic and astringent properties. It can be applied to the face after shaving to soothe the skin.
It is also a very effective styptic. One can simply wet the alum block and rub it over any nicks or cuts to stop the bleeding almost instantly. For these reasons a lot of gents carry some as part of their shaving kit.
I'm afraid I don't have any experience of shaving other people. However there are some very nice people in the wet shaving community that might be able to offer some advice. There are a few channels like this on UA-cam and also the forums on Badger and Blade where you might also be able to pose such a question.
Best wishes.
Nice video. I have a merkur futur i dont like its to clumpy so im having problems getting all the hair especially around my lips. Im using feather blades and feel a little sore afterwards. Can you recomend a kind to medium aggressiv safety razor that works well with feather blades?
Do you have a shave comparison between shave soap/cream that needs to be lathered with a brush vs shaving foam out of a can?
Geo what's the finish in your bathroom walls? looks Amazing!! Thank You
Hi Manuel- What did you think of the video content?
Great video, I use Proraso because I see it being used in a lot of really good barber shops, I think that and your videos made me a happy customer, Thank You.
Thanks Manuel. Proraso has been used worldwide in barber shops all around the world for many years-It's Time Tested!
Thanks! Good video. I’m going to try Proraso for the first time. I’m just going to use my old shave soap mug until I can get one of those bowls you have there.
Proraso is great, I'd recommend it to anyone (new to wetshaving). The entire product range is a winner.
Personally I enjoy the Bianca (white) series the most.
Is it normal that it feels EXTREMELY fresh on my face? To the point of being a little too uncomfortable...
Jaime Durban Yes. It is normal. Proraso has a strong menthol. It is not for everybody.
But people who are looking for extremely fresh and tingling sensation, Proraso is ideal.
Listening to Geo makes me want a Italian beef and or gyro.
Neither, since Italian cuisine is mainly famous for relying on pork, not beef. And gyros are a Greek dish, not Italian. What you really are thinking of is Italian sausage. Proscuitto especially.
Another useful video: thanks! I'm jealous of your bathroom: nice high ceilings, elegant furnishings, etc. What are the walls covered in? Final question: is your shaving bowl slippery when wet?
Slippery? I grip it from the bottom while lathering and set it down when I'm done lathering. I've never dropped one yet.
Geo it worked i got urself a new customer, his names Aaron hes spry, young, and willing to spend! BIG BUCKS!!!!
Interesting...
At first I was sadened after trying the Proraso green cream because it irritated my face. I really enjoyed the smell and the way it lathered. So I continued using it instead of tossing it away. I found out if I rinsed it off completely with warm water before closing my pores with cold water I can avoid the irritation.
I'm glad you stuck with it. Persistence pays off!
Man if you can't lather Proraso you're seriously doing something wrong, it's one of the easiest products to lather.
Using that much of the cream is just wasting it. I only use a quarter of that for a 2 pass shave and build the lather on my face. It makes a beautiful lather and 1 tube has lasted me a full year of shaves.
I was gonna say ... If I can use an old $0.59 disposable hog hair paint brush and get perfectly adequate performance without a bowl, I don't know what people expect.
Buddha Mack
Holy Crap! that’s a long time I am a beginner to classic shaving and I just got my first tub of Proraso Red today so you’re saying if I don’t over do it, it will last a long time?
Buddha Mack each to their own. I lather directly onto the face as well but a lot of people use the bowl. In fact a lot of Italians use Proraso as their go to product and use a bowl.
On the subject of lathering creams, I fully agree. I've only messed with creams that are already in tubs, and for those I just run the very tips of my brush bristles through it to pick some cream up, and either lather directly on my face or take it to a bowl. A REALLY small amount of that stuff goes a really long way.
then you are gone with the soap in the tub do you rinse in under the water and put the lid back on or what are the best to do ?
okay, then you starte you are loading the brush with soap you create a mesh, you just let stay on the soap to next time you use. i ask all these stupid question because i just got my first de shave today.
thank you for the help, i only got 4 very small hick, on my first shave today, never had as good a shave and smooth skind as i got now.. I hook on Double edge shaving.. i Got a Muhle Rytmo with Muhle blade. works great on my skind no burn just perfection. did have make 5 passes to get it all, but guess the will get better more practice i get with it..
I usually turn the tub upside down and run water over the bottom, to clean the jar, then let it dry with the cap off overnight.Then, if not using it the next day, covering it back up and on to the shelf it goes for next time.
so, what are the differences between using a straight or safety razor? My cheeks aren't prone to irritation or bumps, but my neck area is extremely sensitive. What should i use?
Just ordered some of that potasso I the plastic canister and looking forward to trying it soon.
Geo, in your opinion which provides the better shave, shave cream or shave soap?