Edwin Jagger: The REAL Best a Man Can Get
Several weeks ago I was fortunate enough to receive a gift package from Edwin Jagger, giving me the opportunity to experience a shave comprised almost entirely of Edwin Jagger products (I don’t have an EJ brush…yet). I’ve had the chance to review Edwin Jagger’s Limes and Pomegranate Shaving Soap and the DE87 safety razor before, but this was my first opportunity to experience everything EJ has to offer.
Gillette advertises itself as “The Best a Man Can Get”, but most of us know that’s not true. However, one of the difficulties when entering the world of traditional wet shaving is the overabundant multitude of products available. I think the hardest part of getting started is knowing actually where to start. Fortunately, Edwin Jagger has developed enough quality products to take you from goopy chemicals and excessive blades to shaving with safety razors, real ingredients, and environmentally-friendly packaging without breaking the bank.
Edwin Jagger Hydrating Pre-Shave Lotion
Hydrating Pre-Shave Lotion
Sporting a mild mentholated sensation and a light body, this is one of the best pre-shave creams I’ve used. I’m typically not a fan of pre-shave oils, as, with a few exceptions, they tend to clog my blades.
“I don’t always use pre-shaves, but when I do, I prefer a cream”
– Tailor & Barber
However, this is a pre-shave cream I can get behind. It’s effective, protective, and efficient. A small dollop provides a thin layer of protection between your skin and the blade. You can’t see the lotion once it’s applied, and it washes away clean.
Aloe Vera Shaving Cream and Aftershave Lotion
I think what initially excited me most about the Aloe Vera line of products from Edwin Jagger, was the fragrance. With the designation of an aloe vera-based formula for sensitive skin, I expected a mild, almost medicinal fragrance. In actuality, this line features a vibrant green and woodsy fragrance that pairs wonderfully with some of my favorite colognes. The shaving cream is incredibly dense too, and only a few dabs with my brush are needed to build enough lather for an extremely comfortable, full three-pass shave.
Edwin Jagger Aloe Vera Shaving Cream and Aftershave Lotion
Just like the pre-shave lotion, EJ’s aftershave lotion is light, but effective. The post-shave healing and nourishing is fantastic. If I had to change anything about the aftershave lotion, I would improve the cannister and dispensing system. I found it a little clunky, and I feel like I’m going to break it every time I use it. Ironically, this system seems to deliver the perfect amount of aftershave. So maybe the folks over at Edwin Jagger know something I don’t.
DE89Lbl Double-Edged Safety Razor
As I mentioned above, I’ve already reviewed the Edwin Jagger DE87. Accordingly, I figured I wouldn’t gain too much from testing out another safety razor. Surprisingly, I think I like this razor a little more than my DE87. The DE89Lbl (chrome-lined) weighs a bit more (yes, I actually weighed them). As a result, it responds better with less pressure. The trick with traditional wet shaving is to focus on the proper angle while using as little pressure as possible to hold the blade to your face. With a heavier razor, like the DE89Lbl, you can let gravity do more work for you and get a closer shave.
Edwin Jagger DE89Lbl
Edwin Jagger DE87
Look, I know some of you are going to be skeptical about this post, considering the fact that Edwin Jagger sent me the gift, and I totally get that. But the truth is that this is top-notch wet shaving gear, and great place to get started. I pride myself on remaining unbiased and independent in my reviews, and this post is no exception. Sure, EJ provided the materials, but I wouldn’t recommend them if I wouldn’t use them.
Regards,