You’re listening to Wet Shaving Talk powered by Sharpologist.com where we’re dedicated to preserving the art and skill of classic shaving. I’m your host Joe Borrelli and today is September 3rd, 2024. Today on the Show:
- Fall is in the Air
- Top Pumpkin Spice Scents
- New Article (Are Vintage Straight Razors Worth Restoring?)
- Alum Block More uses than you might think!
- Fall Season is Coming 10/28/24
Click/tap here for the podcast!
Celebrating the Fall Season
As September rolls in, we bid farewell to the summer heat and welcome the crisp air of fall. For many, including families across the United States, this time of year signifies the start of the school season. Here in South Florida, schools began their academic year in early August, which is quite different from the traditional post-Labor Day start many experienced up north.
Exciting Events in September
- Back to School: Millions of students are heading back to class, marking the end of summer vacations.
- College Football: The excitement of college football has kicked off, with the NFL set to start soon!
- Pumpkin Spice Season: With fall in the air, pumpkin spice products are hitting the shelves, from coffee to soaps.
As a self-proclaimed pumpkin spice fan, I look forward to this time of year. It’s not just about the flavors but also the scents that evoke the spirit of fall.
Top Pumpkin Spice Scents for the Season
If you’re a pumpkin spice enthusiast, you’ll want to check out these top five pumpkin spice soaps that perfectly capture the essence of autumn:
- Sterling Pumpkin Spice Soap: A classic choice, this soap embodies the true scent of pumpkin spice without any unnecessary additives. It pairs beautifully with your favorite pumpkin spice latte!
- Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Atomic Pumpkin: This unique soap features a blast of menthol, making it a refreshing option for those warm fall days.
- Uncle John’s Pumpkin Spice: Known for its great performance and word-of-mouth reputation, this soap is a must-try for any pumpkin spice lover.
- Sudsy Soapery Pumpkin Spice: A creamy formulation that promises a delightful shaving experience with a rich pumpkin spice scent.
- Van Yulay Drunken Pumpkin: Renowned for its stunning presentation, this soap includes charming little pumpkins and delivers a fantastic scent.
If you have a favorite pumpkin spice soap that I missed, feel free to reach out! I’d love to hear your recommendations.
Are Vintage Straight Razors Worth Restoring?
Shifting gears, let’s talk about vintage straight razors. Recently, I completed an article exploring whether restoring these razors is a worthwhile investment. Here are some key takeaways:
The Joy of Restoration
- Personal Value: Restoring a vintage straight razor can be a rewarding project, especially if it holds sentimental value. It’s more about personal enjoyment than financial gain.
- Financial Consideration: Generally, you won’t recoup the restoration costs unless you’re dealing with rare models. Most vintage razors will not appreciate significantly in value, so consider restoring them for personal use rather than resale.
Recommendations for Restoration
- Honing and Maintenance: Instead of a full restoration, consider simply honing the blade to keep it shave-ready. This approach preserves the razor’s patina and history.
- Invest in New: If you’re looking for a reliable straight razor, consider investing in a new one. They can serve as heirlooms that you can pass down in the future.
The Versatile Alum Block
Another topic worth discussing is the alum block—a staple in the wet shaving community with multiple uses:
Main Uses of Alum Block
- Antiseptic for Cuts: Acts as a natural antiseptic to seal minor cuts during shaving.
- Irritation Relief: Reduces redness and irritation after an aggressive shave.
- Deodorant Alternative: Can be used as a natural deodorant to neutralize underarm odor.
Lesser-Known Uses
- Pimple Treatment: Applying a wet alum block on blemishes can help dry them out overnight.
- Skin Stretching: Use it to increase traction while shaving, enhancing your grip on the skin.
Upcoming Fall Seasonal Special
Mark your calendars for October 28, 2024, when we’ll celebrate our Fall Seasonal Special! If you’re a vendor or hobbyist with something to showcase, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re excited to include your contributions!
Conclusion
As we embrace the fall season, let’s celebrate the joys of pumpkin spice and the art of straight razor shaving. Whether you’re enjoying the scents of the season or diving into restoration projects, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant community.
Don’t forget to check out my blog at ShaveStraightAndSafe.com and feel free to email me at [email protected] with your thoughts or suggestions. Until next time, shave straight and shave safe!
