Prep is INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT!

[alowe260]

I recently switched to the barbasol pre shave face wash and it has been doing a pretty good job.

 

[bosseb]

I totally agree on prep being very important for a good shave.

Recent experiences ( http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php/448783-128-shaves-on-a-NOS-Wilkinson-blade ) has thaught me that the concept of prep also should include the skin care between shaves.

It has become very worthwhile for me to use a generic moisturizer even during the summer season. I have been using the moisturizer during the cold and dry winters here in Sweden for some years now and recently switched to a product containing 25% shea butter. I even use an unrefined pure shea butter under the sun blocker during summer.

 

[BigJ]

Very well said. Going at it with a well-hydrated face will result in a much better shave. It allows the soap or cream to mix with the water on your face so that it can create that layer of slickness under the lather for a nice smooth glide. Even canned cream like barbasol will tell you to wet your face beforehand.

Facial prep cannot, at all be understated.

+1. Precisely. This is called "wet shaving" for a reason.