Is it okay if I don't go for BBS (or even DFS) every shave?

[TDDO]

This is one of those "am I normal?" posts, I guess. I am finding myself only doing a single WTG pass most mornings now and being quite satisfied with the results. No, my face is not smooth after shaving, and yes, I have a 5 o'clock shadow at the end of the day, but I don't really care. I would even say that, gasp!, my shaves are probably on par with the cartridge/goo-in-a-can shaves I was doing before I switched to my DE.

But I am happy with the results, and really enjoy using my Merkur 34C, brush, and variety of creams in rotation. I would never go back to cartridges or goo. I enjoy the DE process each morning, but just don't feel the need to go for the acme of shaves each time, or even that often at all.

That said, what inspires the motivation for BBSs or DFSs in the rest of you, or are there other shave slackers like me out there?

 

[jojoc]

If you are happy with it, then it is good.

Most mornings I do a two pass shave that gets results I am satisfied with. About once a week I will do a three pass shave just because I really like the feel of a close shave. However, it usually results is a little irritation, nicks and/or bumps.

 

[Weaselsrippedmyflesh]

I generally do a two pass, rarely three. But this is a case of "whatever works for you" - if you're reasonably happy with the results roll with it.

 

[dpmtherrien]

For sure its O.K. As long as the shave is presentable to you, that's all that matters. A CCS is just fine, and a DFS is even better. The BBS is soooooo elusive.

 

[O.G.]

One pass sounds like myself on occasions. Just wait till you use a straight and then you will be able to do a bit more on that one pass YMMV.

 

[blzrfn]

I am not a slacker, I want BBS every shave. However, if after three passes I'm not there yet I am still done with the shave and satisfied. I like to set high goals even if I don't always reach them.

 

[Mick]

You have to do what works for you and not be pressured by others who think that BBS is the only shave possible.

If one quick pass makes your shave then that is what you need to do.

Your shave must fit YOU, not please someone on here.

 

[sharpen]

If you shave every day, that's totally normal to do only one pass (less irritation) WTG.
If your skin allows it and your prep is sufficient, you can go for a second pas XTG or even ATG. Three passes everyday seems kind hard on the face, unless, as I said, your skin is really accepting it.

If you shave every other day you can allow yourself three passes.

With that being said, I'm also the kind of guy that only does a single pass, WTG, in my everyday routine. Satisfies me. And although its not BBS, it's a DDS when the blade is in good condition, which is enough to meet my everyday standards! I enjoy the process of shaving, but doing 2 or 3 passes everyday seems kind of overkill for me.

If I'm feeling funky I'll go ATG directly on that first pass with a brand new blade. Gives a closer shave.
If I'm going out at night or have an important event, I might do a second pass to ensure a BBS shave.

Long story short, and as others said, do what suits your needs, style and preferences. No need to satisfy others than you – or maybe your GF/wife – when shaving.

 

[sir-nix-alot]

For a while I did 1 WTG with touch-up. I think I am going back to it. My preferance ebbs and flows from BBS to SAS. I just went through a 4 month BBS phase. Time to cool it now that it is cold outside.

 

[musicman1951]

It's your face! Do what makes you happy.

 

[maxman]

It's your face! Do what makes you happy.

Yup. The only rule is you have to enjoy it.
If you aren't enjoying it there is no sense in doing it.

 

[lowjax]

I go with one N-S pass every morning and go S-N on my neck and jaw line about once every couple days after my first pass. I don't have much time in the morning before work and that's about all the time I can take.

 

[PFP_Dad]

I dropped my third pass a while ago for most shaves, it just isn't as comfortable for me. Do whatever is best for you.

 

[Brew Swain]

What ever you want. It's your face and your style. Do it your way.

If you get something your happy with it can't be wrong, eh.

 

[tfinch]

Sure it's okay! Best thing is to have healthy and happy skin. If a good comfortable shave without pushing it accomplishes that then it's a great shave.

 

[Don Shinchan]

It's your face! Do what makes you happy.

Agreed with musicman1951 here. I used to aim for BBS in every shave, but after a while, I've learnt not to worry much. And it's a good thing my skin can tolerate 3-pass shave. ; )

 

[Samjax]

The more time you spend here...the easier the DFS/BBS type shaves will be. In the meantime, have fun and avoid the blood.

 

[celestino]

i never get BBS and am very content with DFS with BBS in some areas. i only do two passes with touch-ups and i think my technique is quite good, so i don't really aim for DFS, it just happens, i presume.

 

[Cagliostro]

For me...the every day shave is not a baby smooth, why? Time and so on, and well for me the bss is some thing special and I do it for when I feel like it or I want to impress. Currently I am growing a stash/goatee type beard stash chin etc...so I just shave my neck and cheeks and trim up my burns. No, I don't think it needs to be baby smooth all the time, little tough on the face if you shave that way every day...thats just my opinion though.

 

[superkreep]

Whatever works for you! It's totally fine. For me: every day would be 2 passes WTG using a slant razor OR every other day 3 passes (W/A/X) using a DE.

I don't always get BBS in an every day routine but that's totally fine