Lather problem

[OriginalCrash]

So I've been using a QED Mocha Java shave stick (face lathering with an EJ BBB), but I've noticed something... After building the initial lather on my face, when I make my first pass, it's not very slick. But on subsequent passes, it is...? I'm not sure if it's just that I'm not a fan of that initial, super-thick lather you get right after face lathering (as opposed to just brushing it on with subsequent passes)...? The only other thing I can think of is that I rinse my face right before making my second and third passes, and maybe that's why it's slicker then? At first, I just thought, "well, I just need to add more water while building the lather," but I don't know if that's it... As it seems that the lather on the brush for later passes is plenty slick, but the thick lather on my face isn't...? Any suggestions? Or am I making any sense?

 

[Vlad]

My guess would be that your first lather is thick but dry, so that's what's making it not feel as slick. That happens to me, too, probably because I haven't been face-lathering all that long. If you use a DE and find that the first lather is kinda clogging up the razor, that might also be an indicator that you need more water in that first lathering.

 

[OriginalCrash]

So you think it's likely that (as you said) the initial lather is still to dry, and that probably my rinsing my face right before applying on subsequent passes is giving it what it needs to feel slick on those passes? Hmm... more water it is, then. Thanks!

 

[bluemantra]

So you think it's likely that (as you said) the initial lather is still to dry, and that probably my rinsing my face right before applying on subsequent passes is giving it what it needs to feel slick on those passes? Hmm... more water it is, then. Thanks!

I agree with what Vlad said. Just keeping experimenting and playing with different water ratios and you'll be able to get consistently great shaves once you've got it figured out.

 

[Optometrist]

You'll also find that the initial amount of water for the first pass will vary dramatically between soaps. I find that my Valobra, Crema di Sapone Purissima soap requires far less than my favourite, Cella, Crema Sapone Extra Extra Purissima, which takes water like no other soap I know. It's all about experimenting.

David

 

[soloflex]

Same issue here
I use addition cream before lathering up my brush

 

[Luc]

The tutorials should help: http://wiki.badgerandblade.com/index.php/Lathers