Hey all. I'm still quite a newbie here, so maybe this question has been posed before. Is there a specific reason that many warn not to go against the grain? I find that after my first shave if I re-lather and go against the grain that I actually get an incredibly smooth shave. I've not experienced razor burn or ingrown hairs--I just didn't know if there something more sinister at work as for the reason to go only with the grain. Thoughts?
Against the Grain.
- Thread starter The_Gifford
- Start date
I suspect that it's a general warning for those new to DE shaving just to take it steady at first. Certainly using too much pressure and also going against the grain can be a recipe for razor burn and discomfort.
But of course if you're going ATG without discomfort then you're doing great, nothing wrong with it at all.
Welcome too, I see it's your second post.
But of course if you're going ATG without discomfort then you're doing great, nothing wrong with it at all.
Welcome too, I see it's your second post.
There's absolutely nothing wrong with going against the grain on your 2nd or 3rd pass. First pass against the grain could get ugly, especially if you have a longer growth.
I can only get BBS if I go against the grain on my final pass. You should find that most guys here do it.
I can only get BBS if I go against the grain on my final pass. You should find that most guys here do it.
The admonition to start with one or two passes with the grain is to gain some experience before attempting the ubiquitous ATG - but you, sir, are a natural. Have at it.
Time to develop technique is one of the reasons. Also, some people's skin gets too irritated from the atg pass to make it worthwhile.
You are very lucky. I can go ATG on my face, but if I go ATG on my neck. Not a pretty site the day after. My neck looks like I took a wire brush to it. Sucks!
+1
Kudos to your for ATG. Wish I could do it on my neck. Keep on with the keepin on! Good luck!
IMightBeWrong
Loves a smelly brush
I can go against with less aggressive blades but I get irritated easily if I use Feathers to go ATG. If I take my time with Astras I can do it and PolSilver Super Iridiums make it easy with little to no irritation. For some reason Feathers only let me go across the grain.
Same here. Feathers make my ATG pass a blood-bath too.
ATG is just a little more tricky for newbie shavers as the razor is upside down and the angles are unfamiliar, leading to pressure issues.
ATG is not absolutely necessary for a DFS but it will give you great results in a two or three pass shave.
ATG is not absolutely necessary for a DFS but it will give you great results in a two or three pass shave.
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