Services
Hot towel & straight razor shaves in St. Catharines
The traditional shave, done properly. Hot towels to soften the skin, a sharp straight razor for the closest finish you can get, and a clean, soothing finish to send you out feeling brand new. It's our specialty, and one of the reasons people drive in from across the Niagara Region.
The experience
What a hot towel shave is like
A hot towel shave is the old-school ritual, the way a barber shave is meant to feel. We start by laying a hot towel over the face to open the pores and soften the beard, then work the area with a straight razor for a closer, cleaner result than any cartridge can manage. We finish with a cooling towel and a soothing balm so your skin feels calm, not raw.
It's slower than a quick trim on purpose, this is the part you slow down for. Sam has spent 13+ years on straight-razor work, and it shows in the line-up and the finish.
What's included
- Hot towel prep to soften the beard
- Close straight-razor shave by hand
- Clean neckline and razor line-up
- Cooling towel and soothing finish
- Pairs well with a fresh cut or beard trim
Final price depends on the work, your barber will confirm before they start.
What they say
Trusted with the razor
5.0 ★★★★★ · 169 Google reviews
"You can tell right away that he's been honing his craft for a long time. The straight razor approach to clean up the neckline was a nice touch."
"I got my head shaved and my beard trimmed and it was fantastic. Sam and his staff are friendly and just excellent at haircuts, very reasonably priced."
Pairs well with
Round out the look
A lot of clients pair a shave with a beard shape-up to keep the lines crisp between visits.
Good to know
Common questions
What is a hot towel shave?
It's a traditional barber shave: a hot towel softens the beard and opens the pores, then we use a straight razor by hand for the closest finish, and end with a cooling towel and a soothing balm. It's a more thorough, more relaxing shave than you'd get at home, and the neckline and edges come out razor-clean.
How long does it take?
A proper hot towel shave isn't rushed, so plan to slow down and enjoy it. Timing depends on the work and whether you're pairing it with a cut or beard trim, your barber will let you know when you sit down. Booking ahead means your chair is held for you.
Walk-in or book?
Both. Walk-ins are welcome at 514 Welland Ave, but booking ahead online guarantees your time with the barber you want, especially on weekends. We're open Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, closed Mondays.
Ready for the closest shave in town?
Book your chair in seconds, or call the shop. Walk-ins always welcome.