London’s Smoothest ShaveBy Chris Donnelly
The lowdown: Gentlemen’s Tonic, one of two London-based salons, sits proudly in the heart of Mayfair. The salon is the ultimate luxury destination for the time-pressured, grooming-proud Londoner: expect plush interiors, a quiet, relaxed atmosphere, and extremely good mannered staff.
Why visit: If you’ve got money to spend on yourself, then the wet shave is a real indulgence for the busy man in London. We think this would be a great present for your boyfriend / father / man friend, and although the treatments don’t come cheap, they come with the addition of fantastic service, and cute add-ons such as cocktails.
The treatment: it starts with a Bloody Mary, extra spicy. I spend a good 30-minute relaxing pre-shave, munching on celery. I meet my therapist for the treatment, who talks me through how to get the perfect wet shave, including pre and post shave facial care. Sitting in my old-fashion barbour chair, surrounded by the gentle din of the TV, I could not feel more relaxed as all the tiny hairs on my neck were finally taken care of. It starts with a hot towel, which goes perfectly with my hazy almost-drunk state, followed by a deep moisturising treatment for the face. I was relatively worried by having a man wealding a giant blade to my face, but it could not have been more professional – the shave was clean, and more perfect than anything I could have done at home. All in all, a fantastic experience and one I will be repeating in future – if my bank manager allows it.
Gentleman’s Tonic – Wet Shave + Face Prep – £56. For more information and to book – click here
