Everyone who follows my reviews knows that my favorite method of relaxation therapy is the Old School Straight Razor Shave. After a very difficult work week, there is nothing better than a hot towel shave on your day off. I've had shaves done at old-school Italian Barbershops in New York. I've had shaves done at Japanese and Korean barbershops where they shave your whole face, and even your ear and nose hairs. I've even had shaves at Black-American barbershops where they specialize in "ethnic hair". But, I had never had a Straight Razor Shave done in California because of how hard it is to find a Master Barber who is licensed to use the razor. RITE CUT BARBER SHOP is the only barbershop in the area that has barbers who have no problem giving you this service.
When I first got to California, the 1st thing I wanted to do was get a Hot Towel Shave. I first went to "Stews" but the lady there told me that they didn't have any licensed master barbers. Why does their sign read "Old Time Barber Shop"? So, I then went to another shop. When I walked in, I saw the barber using the straight razor, but when I asked for a shave he turned me down. He said that he uses the razor only to clean up behind the neck and ears, and that if he gave me a shave it would take almost an hour and he wouldn't be able to see other customers. I came to the conclusion that the Hot Towel Shave was a lost art in California, so I was ready to give up. Then by coincidence I saw the sign for RITE CUT. As I walked closer to the sign I noticed that it read: "Straight Razor Shave $16". I couldn't believe what I was seeing. The average cost of a shave in my hometown of Las Vegas is around $50. So, all you Temecula people should be really happy that you guys have a barber in town that will give you such a great deal.
Before I came here to RITE CUT, my favorite barbers were all in Las Vegas. In my ranking of favorite barbers; I have Alex from Figaro's, and Anthony from Presidential Shave Shop tied in 1st place. But after the shave that George at RITE CUT gave me today, I got it a 3 way tie now.
When I first walked into RITE CUT, they told me that Straight Razor Shaves are not very popular here in California. It's rare for someone to ask for a shave, but here at RITE CUT they are glad to do it when you ask. Because it had been so long since the last time someone asked for a shave, they actually needed to take some time to set up and heat up a towel. This is the complete opposite of Las Vegas, where like 75% of the barbershop customers ask for shaves.
The Pre-Shave was one of the best I have ever had. They start by applying the hot lather(they got one of those really expensive machines here that create a really foamy hot lather within seconds). Then they apply the 1st hot towel. This is something that RITE CUT does better than all the other shave shops: they use way more hot towels! I've been to some barbers where they only use 1 hot towel, and it's barely warm. You won't have that problem here at RITE CUT. After a minute, they wipe off the lather with the hot towel while massaging your face. After that, they apply the Pre-Shave Lotion. The lotion they use is very therapeutic and aromatic. It creates that burning sensation on your skin and opens your pores. The lotion also allows the razor to glide easily. After that, they apply the 2nd layer of Hot Lather. By this time, you might fall asleep due to how relaxing it is. Also, at this point the hair is completely soft and easy to cut.
The Shave itself is actually 2 shaves. The first shave is done with the growth of the hair. The thing I like the most about George is that he follows all the proper barber protocol. Not many barbers still do that. Many people don't know this, but a Master Barber has to follow exactly 14 steps while shaving your face. George is only 1 of 3 barbers I've had who actually gives you all 14 steps with the proper cutting strokes and technique. After that, you get another hot towel and the 2nd shave begins. This shave is against the growth of the hair and gives you an extra close shave. Post-Shave starts with yet another hot towel, and all types of moisturizers and after-shave. And all of this is ONLY $16! Unbelievable!
I really recommend everyone in Temecula to get a shave here! You guys should really appreciate the fact that you have the privilege of having one of the best barbers in your town.
I guess most people are too afraid to get a shave because it involves an extremely sharp razor near your throat. Don't worry! A master barber has NEVER cut me. That's why they have to go through so much schooling. BTW, Everyone in Temecula always pretends to be so tough with their "Poser MMA lifestyle", "Tattoos", and "Motorcycles"...but then you guys are too afraid to get a Hot Towel Straight Razor Shave?...come on! Try it, you'll love it! read more