![]() ![]() Marketing for men’s personal shaving products emphasized the idea that the man with a clean-shaven face is a hygienic, modern, and civilized man (in contrast to the man who gets a once-a-week shave at the barber). As a result, being clean-shaven became both more convenient and very fashionable.īecause personal safety razors use disposable blades, men who shaved every day also had to purchase a constant supply of blades. When Gillette patented the first safety razor in 1904, it became easier for men to shave themselves at home. During the 1800s, shaving was done with a steel straight razor, often by a barber. Companies have marketed their shaving products in ways that link the use of the product with an increase in the user’s attractiveness, masculinity, or femininity.Ĭultural standards, practices, and fashions for men’s facial hair have shifted over time, and razor innovations and marketing have played a role in those shifts. These same concerns have frequently been used to create and reinforce identity and gender norms within American cultures. She does not approve of the massage-finish of the tonsorial artist." Warshaw Collection of Business Americana, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian InstitutionĬoncerns about personal appearance have often motivated hair removal practices. For these reasons, by the early 1900s being “clean-shaven” had become associated with basic hygiene.ġ910 Gillette advertisement: "She admires the clean, healthy skin of the man who uses a Gillette. Because hair traps perspiration, it can also become a breeding ground for bacteria and odors. Removing body hair helped stave off infestations of lice and other parasites, especially for those who lived in close quarters and who had limited access to bathing. Personal care products which remove unwanted hair from the face and body were developed to address interwoven concerns about hygiene and personal appearance. To skip the text and go directly to the objects, CLICK HERE The text below provides some historical context and shows how we can use these products to explore aspects of American history, for example, the links between innovation, advertising, and personal identity. This section includes products such as razors and depilatories. Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives, African Art.
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