Howdy, and a journal

[qi3ber]

So, I've been reading the forum for a couple months, took the plunge and bought a collection of goodies from west coast shaving, and some soap samplers from mystic and stirling soaps, and waited for my first opportunity to dedicate myself to the time to try it the first time.

First shave: 11/22
Razor: Merkur 38c
Blade: Derby
Brush: Semogogue Boar
Soap: Stirling Bay Rum
Pre-Shave: Just a shower
Post-Shave: Alum & a post shave balm (why can't I remember any of my models or products today?)
Passes: Just WTG

Used a bowl to lather, seems my sisters water is far softer than my own, but had no end of problems making a good lather. Seems that I need to allocate some more non-shave time to practicing lathering. Since it my first outing, and frankly I was terrified of absolutely destroying my face (paranoia ftw), I only did a single pass with the grain since I didn't like the strength of my lather.

I applied lather to my face in sections based on the flow my stubble. Shaving was thankfully uneventful with no bleeders, cuts or nicks. After completion I applied alum to my face, and felt some mild warming but nothing overly painfully. So I appear to have acquired minimal razor burn. Also good.

All said and done, my first shave wasn't the closest, but I'm happy with the results. I'll shoot for a better lather and closer shave the next time.

 

[crleftwich]

Welcome to the board and congrats on your first real shave. You'll get closer next time, promise.

 

[jovan]

Welcome to B&B. Glad your first shave was a success. Just remember that closeness does not mean more pressure, just a slightly different angle with the razor. Less pressure more angle is what my grandfather would tell me. Good luck and keep us posted.

 

[xxvaleria]

Welcome to the forum. There's really no reason to be afraid of your razor. It is designed to protect your face. While there is some chance of MINOR discomfort (nicks, weepers, razor burn, etc.) there's no chance of any real damage--unless you totally go berserk.

Straight razors, on the other hand…

 

[NickCutlip]

Welcome to the forum !!

 

[coyotewhisper]

Greetings and welcome to B&B. Congrats on your first real shaves, the shaves will only get better from here.

 

[The Accountant]

Welcome to the forum; enjoy your time here. The shaves will get better over time; just hang in there. Ask any questions that arise along the way; that's what we are here for!

 

[CUSE69]

Welcome to the site. Remember each pass is designed to reduce the remaining whiskers, not to eliminate them all at once. Try no pressure on the razor. It may seem counter intuitive, but the best results are correct angle and minimal to no pressure. Listen to the razor cutting to get the proper blade angle. Go slow, take short strokes and focus. Pull the unshaven skin a little with your free hand, to smooth out the surface. You will do great.