Starter kit for my brother

[gwanzek]

So by no means am I considering myself an expert, but when I find something that I have a passion for, I totally immerse myself.

I started DE shaving not more than a month and a half ago. I now have about 12 razors (the vast majority of which I have not used yet) and have thoroughly enjoyed getting my technique down. I've slowly introduced new products as to minimize the number of variables in my shaves.

Now I'm ready to help my brother get started. Here's what I have pulled together for him to get started.

40's SS
AoS Brush
homemade brush stand from a PIF (thanks, Eman)
5-pack of Derby blades
Proraso Pre-shave sample
CO Bigelow Shave cream sample
Latte mug for lathering

Things I'll recommend he pick up are a bottle of witch hazel from Target along with a cheap travel-sized spray bottle for application. I've also really liked the Neutrogena aftershave, which I will recommend, too.

Most importantly, I'm going to point him to B&B and Mantic's YouTube channel to get all learned up.

So, we very well may be welcoming another convert to our ranks soon.

Anything else I should toss in or provide directions on?

 

[machine99703]

Directions on how to set up a verified Paypal account for when the AD's kick in.

 

[michiganlover]

You should toss in a puck of VDH Deluxe. Available locally, a good quality soap, and it's dirt cheap.

 

[gwanzek]

You should toss in a puck of VDH Deluxe. Available locally, a good quality soap, and it's dirt cheap.

Good call on the VDH. I had a puck in my den that hadn't been used yet so I've tossed that in as well.

 

[WhosYerBob]

Looks like a great kit - I'll bet he really enjoys receiving it.

 

[Stubbly-One Kenobi]

If you've got a Wal-Mart nearby you could also toss in a pack of Personna blades which should be easily available, just so he has a secondary choice if he finds the derby's too harsh.

If it turns out that your brother doesn't like the Neutrogena, I'd suggest a Nivea aftershave balm, also available pretty much everywhere. It's an inexpensive aftershave which works very well, and it has a nice light scent. I use the "Replenishing" variety, but have used the "Extreme Comfort" in the past; both are good.

If he'd like an aftershave splash, there are a couple of varieties which are also budget but very good. If your brother is a bit young for Aqua Velva blue(blasphemy, I know) there's an Ice sport version which is younger and more modern. Tell him not to shortchange the Adidas aftershave splashes which he may see as well, they're surprisingly good for the face and smell great.

Just some stuff to consider. After all, variety is what makes this great.