How to Use a Shaving Brush: The Ritual of Classic Shaving

Traditional shaving is more than just a daily routine — it’s a ritual of care, elegance, and precision.

At the heart of this experience lies the shaving brush, an essential tool that prepares the skin and beard for a close, comfortable shave.

Let’s explore how to use a shaving brush properly and elevate your grooming ritual with timeless charm.

1. Choose the Right Brush

Each brush has its own character — whether it’s made with natural or synthetic bristles, and a handle in wood, horn, or resin.

The Mariella Martinato collection offers handcrafted shaving brushes made from premium materials, designed to combine functionality and timeless elegance.

2. Soften the Bristles

Soak the brush in warm water for 1–2 minutes.

This step softens the bristles and helps them better absorb the shaving soap or cream.

💡 Tip: Avoid hot or boiling water, as it can damage the bristles — especially if they’re natural.

3. Load the Brush

Swirl the damp brush over your shaving soap using circular motions until a rich lather starts to form.

If you’re using a shaving cream, you can apply a small amount directly into a bowl or onto the wet brush.

4. Lather and Apply

You can build the lather in a shaving bowl or directly on the face.

Apply the lather with circular, firm motions: this massages the skin, lifts the hair, and ensures a smoother shave.

It also:

• Softens facial hair

• Removes impurities

• Stimulates circulation

• Creates a protective layer between the skin and the blade

5. Shave

Now your skin is ready. Use your preferred razor — straight, safety, or cartridge — for a clean, smooth shave.

Thanks to the brush, the razor will glide effortlessly, reducing the risk of irritation.

6. Care for Your Brush

After shaving:

• Rinse the brush thoroughly with warm water

• Gently squeeze out excess water

• Let it dry bristles facing downward, ideally on a brush stand

Proper care keeps your brush in excellent condition for years.

A Daily Gesture, Elevated to a Ritual

Using a shaving brush isn’t just about grooming — it’s about slowing down, enjoying the moment, and choosing quality and tradition.

A ritual made even more special with the timeless craftsmanship of Mariella Martinato.

✨ Discover Our Handcrafted Shaving Brushes

[Razor and shaving brushes — Store — MARIELLA MARTINATO]

The use of the horn

PRODUCT CARE

Mariella Martinato horn products have been conceived and designed to be used and appreciated, not just to look beautiful. By following some simple guidelines you can keep the products bright and shiny as the day they were purchased. If treated with proper attention our creations can last a lifetime.

It is important to wash the product by hand with only tepid water and very mild soap, rub it gently with a soft cloth and towel it dry immediately. Never leave the product soaking in water, do not use hot or boiling water, avoid chemicals and aggressive detergents or abrasive cleaning materials and make sure that the horn product does not have any contact with sharp objects.

From time to time your hornware will benefit from a little extra attention. Use a soft cloth sprinkled with a little vegetable oil over the direction of the grain and buff it using a soft lint- free cloth. These little touches will restore the shine and preserve the natural beauty of the horn.

DISPLAY

Do not display the horn object in direct sunlight, under bright lights, near heaters, air conditioning units, or near windows and exterior walls. This will protect the horn from fading and will help to avoid any cracking or movement. The horn is a granular material and has the ability to swell when exposed to too much moisture. It is advisable to keep items in a dry environment without too extreme temperature changes.

tNon preoccuparti di sembrare professionale. Trova la tua voce. Ci sono oltre 1,5 miliardi di siti in circolazione, ma la tua storia è ciò che distinguerà il tuo da tutti gli altri. Se rileggi il testo e non senti la tua voce nella testa, è segno che c'è ancora del lavoro da fare.

Horn comb

The horn comb has the same chemical composition and molecular structure of our hair and fingernails, it is so composed of keratin. This means that, unlike a brush or a comb made of plastic, it is not going to tear the hair but simply smooth it, shape it, give volume and bring it to the hair’s natural shine. In addition it makes the hair soft as silk. Since the horn is not a conductive material the comb is naturally anti-static so, by using it, the hair will not be electrified. It takes away all the electricity accumulated in a day, which is why it is often said that the horn comb relaxes and removes stress. A horn comb is made entirely by hand and is subject to 18 processing steps between cutting and polishing, plus 2 to give the product a special luster. The horn is material that once was used for many different products. A careful selection of the raw material must be made before production in order to allow the construction of a high quality product.

OVAL HORN HAIR BRUSH WITH NATURAL DARK BRITLES

🌿 The brush is crafted with boar bristles from Calcutta, this brush enhances natural shine while being gentle on your hair. With a handle made of walnut wood and real horn, it combines elegance with authenticity — each piece is truly unique. Perfect for thick hair, it detangles without breakage, leaving your hair visibly healthier and more voluminous. Entirely handmade, every brush is finished with care to deliver a truly artisanal experience.

🐗 Boar Bristle Features

• Distributes natural oils for added shine and softness.

• Reduces frizz and prevents breakage.

• Gently stimulates the scalp.

• Natural, durable, and perfect for thick or unruly hair.