Shaving: Hints, advice, questions (for the bois)

[Linus]

I've been contemplating getting a straight razor (as opposed to the commonly used triple/quad commercial razors). Has/does anyone use a straight razor? Are there any brands that you'd recommend over others? I have a nice shaving soap my aunt got me. It lathers nice and I have a nice faux badger brush to lather with. I just need a nice razor to go with.

I've also considered a double-edge (old fashion razor) but my concern is that it's hard to do the very specific and narrow shaves along my side-burn area.

[Dylan]

I have an old double edge

I've been wanting to play around with a straight razor, but I'm also afraid I'll rip off half of my face

I'm interested to see the responses, because I too would really like to know a little more about technique


Dylan

[Blade]

I'm with you Dylan, I don't think I'd want to be practicing with a straight razor. OUCH! just wouldn't be enough if I cut myself, I'm sure I'd have all kinds of colorful language.

[Linus]

E-How to Shave with a Straight Razor: http://www.wikihow.com/Shave-with-a-Straight-Razor

There are a few videos on Google and Youtube as well. This one on Google looks interesting: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7466711741780429878#

[Mike]

If you plan on using a straight razor and dont want to practice on yourself or anyone else, practice on a balloon. When you can shave the balloon without popping it, you should be able to shave your face. I have shaved this way many times, but it lots of work to keep one sharp.

[little man]

a good, sharp edge is the key. for me, the coarsest facial hair i have is on my chin. that's a lot of work with a straight razor. the key for a smooth shave, no matter what razor your use, is to work against the 'grain' of the hair growth. it gets pulled up and is cut below skin level, for that baby butt smooth feel. if you can stand a few nicks and cuts, start lightly on your cheeks...you'll get the feel for it soon enough.

dylan...i have used the double edged razors before and left a chunk of my face in the sink. i think they might be more dangerous than straight razors. so much for "safety" razor, eh?

i think the key to technique on any sort of razor is to take your time.

btw...anything with a sheffield blade is usually good stuff.

[Daryn]

My facial hair (under chin and upper lip) is coming in as aging advances (but I am a guy not transitioning) so I have to shave every other day. Carson Daly is anti-shaving against the grain but... I found this article to be useful in general (and yeah I have sensitive skin)

http://www.helium.com/items/460597-shaving-tips-for-men-with-sensitive-skin

[Queerasfck]

Just a regular Gilllette Mach 3 works the best for me, I've used it for years now. I try to shave with the grain not against but sometimes I break my own rule.
The issue for me isn't really about the razor it's more with the shaving cream. I've found that gels completely dry out my skin and creams work much better. I especially like Kiehls white eagle. It has menthol and camphor in it and helps get a really close shave without irritating or drying out my skin. Makes my face feel refreshed not dry. I buy it online. Their stuff is great but pricey.

[Dylan]

On my wishlist

Click here (http://store.philips.com/servlet/ControllerServlet?Action=DisplayProductDetailsPage&Locale=en_US&SiteID=rpeusb2c&productID=107731000)


Dylan

[Thinker]

I've been contemplating getting a straight razor

What interests you about the straight razor? What benefits are you looking for that are lacking in your current shavers/razors?

Curious,
Thinker

[Linus]

Better control for very narrow edges. Plus, I like the feel of a straight razor (I've had it done a couple of times at a barber).

[Sam]

I use a straight razor now that i have shaved off my scruff completely. easier to get around my sideburns and chin.

i practiced on 5 balloons, until i didnt hurt the 5th one

[Liam]

On my wishlist

Click here (http://store.philips.com/servlet/ControllerServlet?Action=DisplayProductDetailsPage&Locale=en_US&SiteID=rpeusb2c&productID=107731000)


Dylan

I never thought electric shavers came as close as a razor. Does this one Dylan?

[Dylan]

I never thought electric shavers came as close as a razor. Does this one Dylan?

I doubt it. But I also don't know as I haven't actually used it.

I also like a scruffy look tho...and I like being able to shave in the car...I don't know why


Dylan

[Lee]

Cool! I love the look of a shaving cup and razor. I dont have a lot of experience using one but I do know that sharper is safer, even tho it seems like a less sharp edge would be safer to start with you have a better chance of nicking something with a dull blade.
Good luck.