I smile nervously, well, Martin is standing over me with an open razor talking about blood.

Remarkably I remain relaxed. This perhaps more to do with Martin’s preparation for my hot towel shave than my own manliness.

The McGarvey’s new venture is offering male grooming at Syenna, Pump Street. Again it is a family affair as Martin’s daughter is a trainee hairdresser at the salon.

As the first hot towel is applied I relax into the chair, alternating between hot and cold cloth, the soothing sensation is just what is required after a hard day at, well anywhere.

After a quick skin test, Martin lathers my face explaining he has sculpted many of Derry’s young soccerstars in their attempts to get ‘The Beckham Factor.’

‘Straight shave for me please,’ I insist, well it is the first time I’ve ever been shaved by another person. Interestingly Martin hasn’t stopped since first offering the service two weeks ago.

“Hot towel shaves were common place in barbers until 25 years ago. Then a recession hit and people did it themselves though it is making a comeback now.”

Explaining that the oil and foam mixture has been developed by his wife, reflexologist, Mary, both for a smooth shave and to treat the skin: “We also offer skin advice and treatments, in addition to the range of make beauty and grooming services,” he says.

As it turns out my ‘sensitive skin’ wont allow for the closest possible shave, which might stop the boss nagging me to get rid of ‘That bad ginger goatee.’

It is still remarkably close, the experience of being shaved by someone else for the first time took a little getting used to but, as I can testify, “Almost everyone falls asleep or almost does.”

When finished further hot wraps follow as does more relaxation due to the face massage.

“What people don’t realise is that when they shave they push all the blood vessels together, a massage, that is, the through application of aftershave balm helps lessen redness and blotchs.”

Syenna also offers wedding packages to grooms and their wedding party.

“I had a few lads in before a wedding on Saturday, they opened a few beers and left looking very smart, wedding days are no longer only about the bride looking great.”

For more information contact Syenna on 71267779.