Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about ordering, delivery, returns, payments and product information.

 

Jump To Category:

 

• Orders, Delivery & Returns
• Payments & Security
• Products & General Questions
• Shaving Creams, Soaps & Brushes
• General Shaving Guidance
• Gifting

 

Orders, Delivery & Returns:

 

How long does delivery take in the UK?

Orders are dispatched Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays. Shipping is either free or charged at a reduced rate depending on the order value.

Our standard delivery service is Royal Mail Tracked 48, which usually arrives within 2–3 working days after dispatch. This service is free on orders over £35, while orders below this threshold are charged £3. All parcels are fully trackable from dispatch through to delivery, with updates provided by email or text, including notifications if your parcel is left in a safe place or with a neighbour.

For a quicker delivery option, Royal Mail Tracked 24 is also available at checkout. This service normally arrives within 1–2 working days after dispatch and costs £4.50, or is free on orders over £45. Full tracking and delivery notifications are included as standard.

Once your order has been shipped, you will receive a confirmation email. Please note that delivery estimates may vary during busy periods or due to courier delays.

 

Do you offer next-day delivery?

Yes, we offer next working day delivery on orders placed before 2pm, Monday to Friday.

Our Royal Mail next day option uses Royal Mail Special Delivery, which guarantees delivery by 1pm on the following working day. This service costs £11.50.

We also provide a UPS Standard UK Next Working Day service for orders placed before 2pm, Monday to Friday. This option costs £10.00 and includes delivery updates by text and/or email, allowing customers to track their parcel throughout the delivery process.

 

What couriers do you use?

We offer a range of Royal Mail delivery services, including Royal Mail Tracked 48, Tracked 24 and Royal Mail Special Delivery. Customers who prefer an alternative courier can also select our UPS Standard UK Next Working Day service at checkout.

 

How much is delivery and is there a free shipping threshold?

Free Royal Mail Tracked 48 delivery is available on all UK orders over £35. We also offer free Royal Mail Tracked 24 delivery on orders above £45.

For orders below these thresholds, Royal Mail Tracked 48 is charged at £3.00, while Royal Mail Tracked 24 costs £4.50. We also provide a Royal Mail Special Delivery service with guaranteed next working day delivery before 1pm, priced at £11.50.

 

Can I track my order?

Yes, all UK deliveries are sent using tracked shipping services. Once your order has been dispatched, you will be able to track your parcel through to delivery and receive updates by email or text throughout its journey.

 

What should I do if my order hasn’t arrived?

Most orders arrive within the estimated delivery timeframe, however delays can occasionally occur due to factors outside our control. If your order has not arrived, please allow the full delivery window to pass before contacting us.

After this period, we’ll be happy to investigate further and help arrange a suitable resolution. Delivery timeframes are up to 15 days for UK orders, 23 days for European deliveries, and up to 30 days for international orders.

 

Do you ship to Northern Ireland and the Highlands?

Yes, we ship throughout the UK, including Northern Ireland, the Scottish Highlands and Islands, using Royal Mail delivery services.

 

Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?

We are able to amend or cancel orders as long as they have not yet been dispatched. If you need to make changes, please contact us as soon as possible by phone or email and we will do our best to help.

Unfortunately, once an order has been dispatched, we are unable to make amendments or cancel it.

 

How do I return an item?

If you are unhappy with your order, you may return it for a refund.

You must let us know within 14 days of receiving your order if you wish to return an item. Returned goods must be unused, in their original packaging, and in a resalable condition.

Unless an item is faulty or incorrect, customers are responsible for return postage costs. If a product is faulty or not as described, we will refund the item cost, original delivery charge, and any reasonable return costs incurred. Faulty items returned within 30 days of receipt are eligible for a full refund.

Please note that returns cannot be accepted on used or unsealed products where hygiene or health protection reasons prevent resale. This includes certain shaving soaps, creams, and cosmetic products.

Returns should be sent to: The English Shaving Company Returns, 8 Morpeth Street, Sheffield, S3 7JL. Please include your order number, name, and address with your return. We also recommend using a tracked or signed-for postal service, as we cannot be held responsible for items lost during transit.

 

How long do refunds take?

Once your return has been received, refunds are usually processed within 1–2 working days where applicable. After your refund has been completed, we will send a confirmation email.

Refunds are issued back to the original payment method used for the purchase and generally take 3–5 working days to appear, depending on your payment provider.

 

What happens if my order arrives damaged?

We take great care when packing every order and pride ourselves on providing quality products alongside a high level of customer service. However, damage can occasionally occur during transit.

If your order arrives damaged or not in the condition expected, please contact us and we will work with you to resolve the issue and discuss the available options.

 

Payments & Security

 

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as PayPal.

At this time, we do not support Apple Pay or Klarna.

 

Is it safe to shop on your website?

Yes, shopping on our website is secure. We use industry-standard encryption to protect your personal and payment information, and all payments are processed through trusted providers to ensure your details remain safe at all times.

 

Will I be charged VAT?

All prices shown include VAT for UK customers. For orders shipped outside the UK, VAT is not applied. However, local import duties, taxes, or handling fees may be charged on arrival and are the responsibility of the recipient.

 

Can I get a VAT invoice?

A VAT invoice is included with all orders, unless the purchase is sent as a gift to a different delivery recipient.

If you need a VAT invoice and have not received one, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

 

Products & General Questions

 

What is a safety razor?

There are several types of razors and shaving systems available, each with their own benefits and trade-offs. A double edge (DE) safety razor is one of the most widely used traditional options for achieving a close and comfortable shave.

A safety razor holds a single blade at a controlled cutting angle, with a protective guard or “comb” (such as closed comb, open comb, or slant designs) positioned between the blade and the skin. Most designs are either three-piece (which unscrew for blade replacement) or use a butterfly opening mechanism.

Originally a major innovation in shaving, safety razors made it possible to achieve a clean shave at home without the need for a barber or straight razor.

They remain popular today due to their durability and because they are more environmentally friendly than many modern multi-blade and disposable systems.

 

What is the difference between a safety razor and a cartridge razor?

The main difference lies in the blade system. A safety razor uses a single double edge blade fixed in place, offering a controlled and precise shave where the razor’s weight does most of the work rather than added pressure. A cartridge razor uses multiple blades housed in a replaceable pivoting head.

Safety razors can often provide a closer shave with less irritation, as they reduce repeated blade passes over the same area. Cartridge razors are generally more convenient, but replacement cartridges can be more costly over time.

In addition, safety razors are designed for long-term use, with only the blades needing replacing, making them a more cost-effective and lower-waste option overall.

 

Why should I switch to traditional wet shaving?

Traditional wet shaving uses a safety razor, shaving brush, and shaving cream or soap to deliver a closer, more controlled shave. It relies on a single sharp blade rather than multiple blades, which can help improve precision and reduce irritation.

It is also often more cost-effective in the long term, as only blades need replacing, and more environmentally friendly due to reduced plastic waste compared to cartridge systems.

Many people switch to traditional wet shaving for improved shave quality, better control, and a more thorough preparation of the skin.

For a more in depth guide to traditional shaving, see our blog.

 

Are safety razors better for sensitive skin?

Safety razors can be well suited to sensitive skin because they use a single sharp blade, avoiding multiple blades passing over the skin in one stroke.

When used with light pressure and the natural weight of the razor, they can help reduce irritation. Proper technique — such as shaving with the grain and preparing the skin correctly — can also improve comfort.

That said, results can vary depending on technique, blade choice, and skin type, so some experimentation may be needed to find what works best.

 

How do I use a safety razor?

Begin by preparing the skin with a quality shaving cream or soap to create a protective lather that helps the blade glide smoothly.

Hold the razor at roughly a 30-degree angle to the skin and let the weight of the razor do the work, avoiding added pressure. This helps achieve a close shave while reducing irritation.

Shave with the grain first, and if needed, follow with across or against the grain passes. Keeping the skin gently taut can also improve control and comfort.

Blade sharpness is important, so replace blades regularly — typically after 1 to 7 shaves depending on beard type, skin type, and preference. Different blades such as Feather, Derby, and Astra may perform differently, so some experimentation is often useful.

You can learn more with our introductory guide to wet shaving here.

 

How long do razor blades last?

Razor blades generally last between 1 and 7 shaves, depending on beard type, skin type, and personal preference.

Maintaining a sharp blade is important for a comfortable and effective shave, so blades should be replaced regularly. Signs such as pulling, irritation, or reduced performance usually indicate it is time for a change.

Different blade brands can perform differently, so it may take some testing to find your preferred option.

You can learn more here on our blog.

 

Are your products suitable for beginners?

Yes, our products are suitable for both beginners and experienced users. We stock a wide range of shaving equipment, including safety razors, cartridge razors, blades, brushes, and shaving creams and soaps, allowing customers to choose what best suits their routine.

We also offer shaving sets designed for beginners and advanced users alike. These typically include essentials such as a razor, brush, stand, bowl, and shaving cream, providing everything needed for traditional wet shaving.

If you are new to wet shaving, there may be a short learning curve, but many users find it becomes easy with a little practice. Choosing the right products and technique can help you achieve a smooth and comfortable shave.

If you are unsure where to start, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

 

Are your products cruelty-free?

Some of our products are cruelty-free, while others are not, depending on the materials used. We do offer synthetic shaving brushes as a cruelty-free alternative to traditional badger hair brushes.

Customers can choose between synthetic and natural options depending on their preference.

 

Are your shaving soaps vegan?

Some of our shaving soaps are suitable for vegans, while others may contain animal-derived ingredients. Full ingredient details are listed on each product page.

If you need help checking a specific product, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to assist.

 

Shaving Creams, Soaps & Brushes

 

What is the difference between shaving cream and shaving soap?

Shaving cream and shaving soap both create a rich lather that lubricates and protects the skin during shaving, helping the razor glide more smoothly and reducing irritation.

The main difference lies in texture and preparation. Shaving soap is a solid product that is worked with a wet shaving brush, while shaving cream has a softer, paste-like consistency that is generally quicker and easier to lather.

Shaving cream is often preferred for convenience, while shaving soap usually requires a little more time and technique but can offer greater control over the lather once mastered.

In most cases, the choice comes down to personal preference, routine, and experience level, as both serve the same core purpose.

You can read more about the differences between shaving cream and soap here.

 

What shaving cream is best for sensitive skin?

There is no single “best” shaving cream for sensitive skin, as suitability depends on individual skin type, hair type, and personal preference.

For sensitive skin, many users opt for creams with soothing or moisturising properties and lighter fragrances. The most important factor is choosing a product that produces a comfortable, protective lather rather than focusing on a specific brand.

If your skin is particularly sensitive, it can help to try gentler formulations and focus on good shaving technique, such as using a quality lather and avoiding excess pressure.

You can browse our range of shaving creams for sensitive skin here.

You can find out more on the best shaving products for sensitive skin here.

 

How do I choose a shaving brush?

When selecting a shaving brush, it is worth considering bristle type, material, and how the brush feels during use.

Brushes are available in both synthetic fibres and natural badger hair, with grades such as Best Badger, Super Badger, and Silvertip Badger. These vary in softness, water retention, and overall feel, so the best option often depends on personal preference and skin sensitivity.

Handle design and brush size can also influence comfort and control when building a lather with shaving soap or cream.

If you are unsure, many people start with a versatile option and refine their choice over time based on experience.

You can also read our blog post for more advice on finding the right brush for you.

 

What is the difference between badger and synthetic brushes?

Badger shaving brushes are made using natural animal hair, while synthetic brushes are made from manmade fibres designed to replicate their performance.

Badger hair brushes come in different grades, including Best, Super, and Silvertip Badger, each offering variations in softness, firmness, and water retention. They are often associated with a traditional shaving experience and help create a rich lather.

Synthetic brushes are a vegan alternative, designed to closely match the performance of badger hair. They tend to dry more quickly, are highly durable, and do not contain animal-derived materials.

The choice usually comes down to personal preference, budget, and whether you prefer natural or synthetic materials.

 

How do I lather shaving soap properly?

To build a good lather with shaving soap, use a quality shaving brush and warm water to create a rich, protective foam.

Soak the brush in warm water, then gently shake off excess so it is damp rather than dripping. Load the brush by swirling it over the soap in circular motions, gradually building lather while adding small amounts of water until you reach a thick, creamy consistency.

A well-formed lather helps the razor glide more easily, reducing irritation and improving comfort during the shave. The brush also helps lift and soften the beard while lightly exfoliating the skin.

With practice, you will learn the right balance of water and product for your preferred result.

More information on how to lather your shaving soap can be found here.

 

Do I need a shaving bowl?

A shaving bowl is not essential, but it is highly recommended for creating a rich and consistent lather.

Shaving soap is typically worked either in its container or in a bowl using a shaving brush, while shaving cream can be applied directly to the face or lathered in a bowl. Using a bowl simply provides more space and control when building your lather.

Bowls can also help improve lather quality, creating better cushion and glide for the razor. Many are designed to retain warmth from hot water, which can help soften the beard and improve comfort during shaving. They are commonly made from porcelain or stainless steel for durability.

 

Can I use shaving cream without a brush?

Yes, shaving cream can be used without a brush, as it can be applied directly to the skin and worked into a lather by hand.

However, using a shaving brush is generally recommended, as it helps produce a richer lather, improves coverage, and lifts the beard for a closer and more comfortable shave. It also provides light exfoliation to help prepare the skin and reduce irritation.

Whether you use a brush is ultimately a matter of preference, but a brush will usually enhance the overall shaving experience.

 

General Shaving Guidance

 

How do I prevent razor burn?

Razor burn can usually be avoided by using proper preparation, a sharp blade, and a controlled shaving technique.

Begin by preparing the skin with warm water and a quality shaving cream or soap to create a protective lather. Use a clean, sharp blade and allow the razor to glide across the skin without applying pressure.

Shaving with the grain and avoiding multiple passes over the same area can also help reduce irritation. A shaving brush can improve lather quality and help lift the hair for a smoother shave.

After shaving, rinse with cool water and apply a suitable aftershave or moisturiser to soothe the skin.

For more information on how best to prevent and manage razor burn, see our guide.

 

How do I stop ingrown hairs?

Ingrown hairs are typically caused when hairs are cut too closely or grow back into the skin after shaving. They can often be reduced with the right preparation and technique.

Start by washing the area with warm water to soften the hair and open the pores, then apply a quality shaving cream or soap to create a protective lather. Shave with the grain and avoid pulling the skin too tightly, as this can encourage hairs to grow back into the skin.

Using a sharp blade and limiting repeated passes over the same area can also help minimise irritation and ingrown hairs. Regular exfoliation and good aftercare will further support healthy skin.

 

What is the best pre-shave routine?

A good pre-shave routine focuses on preparing the skin properly to reduce irritation and improve the overall shave.

Shaving after a shower is ideal, as warm water and steam help soften the hair and open the pores. If that is not possible, washing the face with warm water can achieve a similar effect by reducing resistance from stubble and allowing the blade to cut more cleanly.

Applying a pre-shave lotion can further help by hydrating the skin and adding a light protective layer to reduce friction during shaving.

Finally, using a quality shaving cream or soap to build a rich lather ensures the skin is well-lubricated, helping the razor glide smoothly and reducing the risk of irritation.

 

Should I use aftershave or balm?

Both aftershave and balm can be used after shaving, but they serve slightly different purposes depending on skin type and preference.

Aftershave is generally lighter and provides a refreshing finish, while balm is richer and more moisturising, designed to soothe and hydrate the skin.

If you have sensitive or dry skin, a balm is often preferred due to its calming and nourishing properties. If you prefer a lighter feel or a more traditional post-shave finish, an aftershave may be more suitable.

Some people choose to alternate between the two depending on the season or how their skin feels after shaving.

 

How often should I shave?

How often you shave depends on your hair growth, skin type, and personal preference.

Some people prefer to shave daily for a consistently smooth result, while others shave every few days to allow stubble to grow and reduce skin sensitivity. Those with faster or coarser hair growth may need to shave more frequently, whereas sensitive skin may benefit from less frequent shaving to reduce irritation.

There is no strict rule, so the best approach is to find a routine that keeps your skin comfortable and works for your individual needs.

 

Can I shave with acne or sensitive skin?

Yes, shaving with acne or sensitive skin is possible, but it should be done carefully to minimise irritation and avoid aggravating breakouts.

Prepare the skin with warm water to soften the hair and reduce resistance, then use a gentle, fragrance-free shaving cream or soap to create a protective lather. Use a sharp blade with light pressure and avoid shaving directly over inflamed areas where possible.

Shave with the grain and limit repeated passes over the same area to reduce stress on the skin. Keeping the razor clean is also important to help minimise bacteria and irritation.

After shaving, rinse with cool water and apply a soothing, alcohol-free moisturiser or balm to help calm the skin.

For a more detailed breakdown, see our tips for shaving with sensitive skin here.

 

Gifting

 

What is a good shaving gift set?

A good shaving gift set typically includes the core tools needed for a complete wet shaving routine, such as a razor, shaving brush, and shaving cream or soap. Some sets may also include accessories like a bowl or stand.

These sets are designed to provide everything required for a traditional shave in one package, making them suitable for both beginners and more experienced users. They usually combine reusable shaving tools with replaceable blades and products that help create a smooth and comfortable shave.

A well-selected set balances practicality and quality, combining durable grooming tools with skin-friendly products for an improved shaving experience.

Shaving gift sets are available in a variety of combinations depending on preference and experience level.

 

Do you offer gift wrapping?

We do not currently provide a gift-wrapping service.

However, all orders are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in excellent condition, making them suitable for gifting as they are.

 

Can I include a personalised message?

We do not currently offer the option to include personalised gift messages.

You can, however, add order notes or delivery instructions at checkout, such as safe place details or specific delivery preferences, which will be included with the order where applicable.

 

What’s the best starter kit for someone new to wet shaving?

A good starter kit for wet shaving typically includes a straightforward razor, a shaving brush, and a quality shaving cream or soap to help create a protective lather.

For beginners, a mild double edge safety razor is often recommended, as it provides control and a close shave without being overly aggressive. A shaving brush helps build a richer lather and lifts the hair, making the shave smoother and more comfortable.

A well-designed starter kit should prioritise ease of use, comfort, and consistent results while allowing the user to develop technique over time.

Starter shaving sets are a practical option, as they bring together all the essential tools needed to begin traditional wet shaving in one place.