Skip to content

US Domestic Orders $35+ Ship Free

How to DIY a Barbershop Hot Towel Treatment at Home

No visit to the barbershop is complete without a hot towel treatment. While many men enjoy this step for the indulgent relaxation alone, a hot towel treatment also has a very practical purpose: it softens your beard for a shave, especially when doused with essential oils or pre-shave oils. A hot towel treatment works wonders for skin and hair. Steam and warmth from the towel open up pores, so any treatments you apply absorb better. If you’ve got a few extra minutes, it’s a wonderful step to add to your shaving routine. But it’s absolutely vital if you are prone to getting ingrown hairs. Thankfully, this barbershop treatment is easily done at home with minimal equipment.

Tools

1. Apply your choice of pre-shave treatment onto the dry hand towel

Use any essential oil you’d like to create a relaxing scent during the treatment – peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus are all lovely. You can also select an essential oil based on its skin benefits. Peppermint and eucalyptus, for instance, are both natural antiseptics (peppermint also has skin-cushioning omega-3 fatty acids!), while lavender oil is an antibacterial (great for acne). Apply only a few drops. Should your face be needing extra moisture - a common concern in the winter - try a pre-shave oil like Truefitt & Hill Ultimate Comfort Pre-Shave Oil. This pre-shave oil contains moisturizing sunflower oil and soothing aloe to soften your beard.

2. Wet the towel and heat it up

Option 1: Microwave the towel for 20 to 40 seconds in a microwave-safe dish. The towel should be hot, but not uncomfortable.

Option 2: Run your towel under hot water from your bathroom sink, then wring it out so it’s damp.

3. Find a comfortable spot to lean back and enjoy

Hold one end of the towel in each hand. Wrap the sides of the towel around your face, covering your cheeks, chin, and forehead, leaving out just the nose. Then relax and meditate for a few moments. Once your towel cools down (about 2 to 3 minutes), remove it and begin your shaving routine.

Older Post
Newer Post

Check Out More From The Grooming Artist

Switch Your Drugstore Razor for a Quality Safety Razor

We hate to break it to you, but you’ve been hoodwinked. Just like everybody else we used to think that the only optio...

What You Need to Start Traditional Wet Shaving

At Royal Shave, we believe that wet shaving is for everyone. From the beginners to the experts, everyone deserves to...

Should I Use A Straight Razor or Safety Razor?

Ah you’ve finally shown interest in the art of wet shaving. Since you've decided to participate in this age old self ...
Close (esc)

Get in touch

Subscribe to receive special offers and updates on new arrivals.

Age verification

By clicking enter you are verifying that you are old enough to consume alcohol.

Search

Added to cart