The author takes the reader on an exploration of the past and present of material production and usage, following the developmental path of an ancient, familiar cultural technique: wet shaving – from stone scrapers to high-tech razors. Along the way, the reader learns how humanity's relationship with materials has evolved from craftsmanship to industry and ultimately to an independent science, and how materials have shaped entire eras. Throughout this journey, the reader encounters researchers and entrepreneurs who have paved this path through determined and often arduous work. In dialogue with the reader, fundamental knowledge of materials science and engineering is vividly conveyed through the described examples, which is essential for understanding the properties of materials and how to test them.