The Classic Hot Towel Shave — Upper East Side, NYC
There's nothing quite like a professional straight razor shave at a real barbershop. City Barbers on the Upper East Side has been delivering the traditional hot towel shave experience since 1972 — and it remains one of the most sought-after services we offer. For $50, you'll walk out with the closest, smoothest shave you've ever had, plus the unmistakable feeling of having treated yourself to something genuinely special.
Whether it's a regular indulgence or a one-time experience for a special occasion, our Hot Towel Royal Shave is the gold standard in Manhattan grooming.
What's Included in the Hot Towel Royal Shave
The full experience at City Barbers includes:
- Pre-shave hot towel — A steaming towel applied to the face to open pores, soften the beard hair, and prepare the skin
- Hot lather application — Rich, warm shaving cream applied generously to lubricate and lift the hair
- Straight razor shave — A professional straight razor used with precision for the closest possible shave, against and with the grain as appropriate
- Second pass — A second lather and pass for maximum smoothness
- Post-shave hot towel — Another warm towel to remove all remaining lather and soothe the skin
- Cold towel finish — A cold towel to close the pores and minimize any irritation
- Aftershave balm — A moisturizing aftershave product applied to calm and hydrate the skin
The whole experience takes approximately 30–45 minutes. It's worth every minute.
Who Is a Hot Towel Shave For?
The hot towel shave is for any man who wants a level of closeness and quality that a home razor simply can't deliver. Our clients who book the Royal Shave include:
- Men preparing for a special occasion — wedding, important meeting, or anniversary dinner
- Regular clients who make it a monthly ritual and self-care routine
- Men with sensitive skin who struggle with razor burn and irritation at home
- Anyone who wants to treat themselves to a proper old-school barbershop experience in Manhattan
- Men who have never tried a straight razor shave and want to experience it for the first time
The Art of the Straight Razor Shave
A straight razor shave is a skilled technique that's been perfected over centuries of barbering tradition. Our barbers understand the angles of the face, the direction of hair growth, how to read the skin, and how to deliver a close shave without nicks, irritation, or missed spots. It's an art that takes years to master — and at City Barbers, it's done with genuine care and precision.
The difference between a home razor shave and a professional straight razor shave is something you feel immediately. The results typically last noticeably longer than a standard cartridge razor shave, and the skin feels softer and calmer afterward.
After Your Shave — Skin Care Tips
- Avoid sun exposure for a few hours after the shave — freshly shaved skin is more sensitive to UV
- Apply a moisturizer or aftershave balm morning and night for the next day or two
- Avoid touching your face excessively — keep the skin clean and bacteria-free after opening the pores
- Wait 24–48 hours before shaving again at home to let the skin recover
- Stay hydrated — healthy, hydrated skin handles shaving far better than dry skin
Frequently Asked Questions — Hot Towel Shave
The Hot Towel Royal Shave at City Barbers is $50. This includes the full experience: pre-shave towel, hot lather, straight razor shave, post-shave towels, and aftershave balm. You can also add a men's haircut for a complete grooming session.
Yes, absolutely — when performed by a trained, experienced barber. Our barbers are professionals who have been doing this for years. We use sterilized, single-use or properly maintained equipment and follow strict hygiene protocols.
Not at all — when done properly. The hot towel preparation, high-quality lather, and skilled technique mean most clients find the straight razor shave to be one of the most relaxing experiences they've had in a barbershop. The key is the prep work before the razor even touches the skin.
Absolutely. Many clients book a men's haircut ($40) and add the hot towel shave for a complete grooming appointment. Book both services online through Square or just ask when you arrive.
No — come in with at least a few days of growth. The straight razor shave works best with some beard growth to work against. Coming in freshly shaved at home would defeat the purpose of the service.