I've been shaving with a safety razor for a few months and have gone through the usual rounds of experimentation with razors/blades/pre-shave prep/post-shave treatment. I've found some options along the way that just didn't work well for me, and abandoned them. Now when I get ready to shave I select the daily variables from what's left, according to whim -- this razor, that blade, this pre, that post. And what I'm finding is that my results, with some minor variation day to day, are pretty consistent no matter what I do. This suggests to me that out of all the elements that go into a shave, a solid technique is the most important. Is this what you all have found as well? Or does anybody want to make the case that a razor (or blade or prep or post treatment) is a more decisive factor?
Philosophical question: Does technique trump everything?
- Thread starter billbarol
- Start date
I have not verified it to my satisfaction, but I suspect technique (and a sharp blade) are the only variables that truly matter.
I generally agree with you.... while certain razors, blades, soaps/creams, etc. absolutely make a difference (sometimes even a very significant difference), poor technique will negate any of those benefits in an instant.
- Badger Bill
- Badger Bill
Technique trumps all, but the right tools help a great deal in my experience.
You're dragging a sharp edge across your face - yes, technique is a critical factor. If your face is telling you it's not comfortable, them you have to adjust your angle and/or pressure (which should be nil to begin with). I do think if you use the most expensive products, you can still get a crappy job without proper technique.
Agree. Duh?!
In general I'd say yes, technique and a good blade, although your own individual face characteristics probably explains more variance associated with the end results than your technique does.
As important, what adds very little to the end result includes just about every shaving item purchasable that is above average in quality.
As important, what adds very little to the end result includes just about every shaving item purchasable that is above average in quality.
1. Technique
2. Lather
3. Face prep (just washing it really lol)
4. Whatever
A corollary to #1 is to not go over the same area a 3rd time without re-lathering it.
2. Lather
3. Face prep (just washing it really lol)
4. Whatever
A corollary to #1 is to not go over the same area a 3rd time without re-lathering it.
Technique, then prep. I agree!
Technique is only part of the equation. You need to know what works for you. Time builds technique.
Basics can be "learned" but getting the perfect shave takes years of doing the same thing over and over again without changing anything
Basics can be "learned" but getting the perfect shave takes years of doing the same thing over and over again without changing anything
I agree 100%. I think even with great technique, if your blade is ready to be chucked, then you will have a less than stellar experience. Might manage fine but.... I think I tend to go for 1 more shave than I should on a blade.
I think hardware and technique go hand in hand. Poor technique with an aggressive razor can mean a bloodbath. However, there are razors available that can mostly overcome poor technique. Modern carts do this very well. You can still get a decent shave while having horrendous technique with a cart.
+1 for this.
I was going to comment that you can't have technique good enough to use a butter knife.
There is a symbiotic relationship between equipment and technique. The trick is to get on top of the hump.
Shaving is like driving. The driver will always be the most important factor to how you do on the road. That being said, some cars are vastly superior and preferable to others.
IMO, technique and prep are the foundations to a consistently great shave.
As long as we are being philosophical, I assumed the OP was talking about DE, but still I disagree with the assertion that carts overcome bad technique.
If you say they mostly overcome bad technique, okay, maybe. However, many guys come to B&B and comment on their cart tearing up their face and that they have been saved the pain and suffering by switching to DE.
I have the opinion that carts don't necessarily overcome bad technique, but make it easier to get away with bad technique, that is at least until the irritation afterward. If you know how to shave, you can get a very close and comfortable shave with a cart with less concentration and without the need to hold an angle. If you don't know how to shave, however, you're likely to hurt yourself (and blame the cart).
If you say they mostly overcome bad technique, okay, maybe. However, many guys come to B&B and comment on their cart tearing up their face and that they have been saved the pain and suffering by switching to DE.
I have the opinion that carts don't necessarily overcome bad technique, but make it easier to get away with bad technique, that is at least until the irritation afterward. If you know how to shave, you can get a very close and comfortable shave with a cart with less concentration and without the need to hold an angle. If you don't know how to shave, however, you're likely to hurt yourself (and blame the cart).
I'll agree, as long as by "technique" you also mean lathering technique. I know what I'm doing, and like to think I have decent technique, but if the lather sucks, so does the shave.
Found myself needing a shave far from home and the rest of my luggage. Only had my R41 2011, a tired blade, a bar of ordinary hand soap, and a gym bathroom sink. Nearest walmart or open pharmacy was over half hour away. Did the deed. Arrived at my meeting on time with a calm near BBS. Skipped last touch up on purpose.
Technique matters most.
Technique matters most.
"What is steel compared to the hand that wields it?" Good technique is the foundation of any skill/art.
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