Top three things to think of when using a brand new brush?

[Darkbulb]

Just got this SOC Boar brush w/ cherry wood handle in the mail from VintageScent ($26 shipped).
LOVE the size and the handle!

I'll be using it for the very first time tomorrow and since this is my VERY first brand-new brush I want to 'treat' it as well as I can/should.

If you'd pass on your top 2-3 tips on how to care for a new brush w/ a wood handle like this one what what you recommend?

Thanks in advance!!

Mah baby!

 

[RKG]

As much as you want to use it tomorrow, I would recommend at least 1 test lather with an adequate drying period (24+ hours) to allow the tips to begin to split. You'll have a much more satisfactory first shave if you do a preliminary break in. Also, when you pre-soak the brush before each shave, only submerse the bristles about 3/4 of the way up (i.e., don't let the handle sit in water).
I think you'll enjoy the SOC. It's a great brush!

 

[celestino]

As much as you want to use it tomorrow, I would recommend at least 1 test lather with an adequate drying period (24+ hours) to allow the tips to begin to split. You'll have a much more satisfactory first shave if you do a preliminary break in. Also, when you pre-soak the brush before each shave, only submerse the bristles about 3/4 of the way up (i.e., don't let the handle sit in water).
I think you'll enjoy the SOC. It's a great brush!

+1 To add to the above, just dry it off after every use and the wood handle should be of any concern. They hold up quite well. Good luck.

 

[Icebear]

Not to discourage you but the brush will require at least 20 uses with drying in between to start showing is proper potential. I also have one of these SOC boars (ash handle though) and I had tough time at first. At the beginning the performance is that you ask yourself why would anybody care to use a boar brush but once it starts to perform as the bristles break in, you will immediately recognize why people love boars. It is my only boar and will always have a spot in my rotation. Congrats, great brush.

 

[Head Rigger]

When I got mine, I soaked the brush in hot tap water for about 10 minutes, did a vigorous "test" lather, rinsed it thoroughly, let it dry 24 hours and have used it heavily ever since. It has been great from the beginning and just keeps getting better!

 

[nemo]

Don't use super hot water, it's not good for the glue or the bristles.

 

[Okla1911]

1)Soak in the hottest water your tap can produce for 10-15min.
2)Use it.
3)Leave soap/cream in it after each shave until the scent dies.
4)Once the scent dies down start rinsing it out and blowing will help break in the tips.

 

[Doc4]

How's it going so far with the new brush?

Remember ... since it is a boar, it'll have quite the break-in period.

 

[Darkbulb]

How's it going so far with the new brush?

Remember ... since it is a boar, it'll have quite the break-in period.

I'm being good and not using it right away..and doing some test lathering with it..
First time 'on my face' will be this weekend