Beards are so 2013!

Jeremy Paxman has shaved off his beard,   In an interview with the Radio Times he said:

 

‘If a chap can’t shave on holiday, what can he do? Beards are so 2013.’

If you're planning on following Jeremy Paxman's lead, and getting rid of your bothersome beard.  If your facial hair is all a fluster, if your moustache is causing mischief then take some inspiration from these examples of shaving equipment on display at Wakefield Museum as part of the Men In The Mirror exhibition:

Shaving Mug, 1800s

 

This shaving mug belonged to naturalist and explorer Charles Waterton of Walton Hall, Wakefield. Shaving mugs date back to the use of open razors.

A cake of shaving soap was fitted in the base of the mug and a water soaked brush was swirled over the soap whipping up a creamy lather.

Depending on the design some allow the shaving brush to be placed safely whilst using the razor to shave.

The mug and brush method became less popular after the First World War when safety razors and manufactured creams and sticks became available.

There are many types of mug designs and they have become popular souvenirs and collectables.

Rolls Razor, 1930s

This safety razor was sold with the claim: ‘The razor that is stropped and honed in its case’.

The case has a rigid rectangular frame enclosed by two detachable lids, one lid carried a stone and the other a leather strop.

The razor has a safety guard and was easy, fast and safe to use. It was a very popular product and many different designs were produced. The name evoked speed and class.

Braun electric razor, 1993

In 1950 German company Braun produced their first electric razor.

Whereas competitors' models had a comb-like metal layer that shielded the user's skin from the blades beneath it, the S 50 featured a thin, perforated metal foil that covered the cutting blades. When the user placed this surface against his face his facial hair went through the holes and was trimmed by the blades.

The 1990s brought more experimentation. The Braun Universal featured a dual head, the world's first, as well as visual feedback: Red and green indicator lights revealed the charging status.

Remington electric razor, 1960s

 

Many electric razor advertisements in the 1960s were aimed at women. They were encouraged to buy them as gifts.

The company began in the 1930s and offered a cheaper product than rivals Braun.

Remington made a breakthrough when they pioneered the incorporation of flexing soft foil system with their shavers in 1975.

Visit the Men In The Mirror exhibition at Wakefield Museum for lots more beard (and hair) related displays.  The museum and exhibition are free. 

Men In The Mirror runs until 31 May