Razor Burn

[Flask]

Hi Guys
New to straights, each time I use one I end up with a sore red face, looks like I got sunburned.
Do you think it is because my razor is not sharp enough or my technique is wrong?
Likely both I guess.
Any suggestions?
Thanks

 

[MileMarker60]

1) where did the razor come from?
2) how are you maintaining it?
3) how many shaves have you had?

Something is wrong without a doubt. Answering the questions can help figure it out.

 

[Kentos]

It could be both, but most likely you were using too much pressure and maybe too much angle.


A too sharp blade could be the culprit, as well as your skin not liking the type of finish on the blade.

But I think it's the former.

 

[dpmtherrien]

Gotta be too much pressure. Try just letting that blade feel as if its almost floating over your face. That's how light you should be. Work at it, and allow your technique to develop as you go.

 

[BakerAndBadger]

I find I get razor burn if I finish the edge on CROX. But +1 to the above.... As always ymmv

 

[Monsieur Blaireau]

I'm constantly struggling to remind myself not to put pressure on the blade, and I get razor burn when I lose the struggle.

 

[MikeA]

Still pretty new to straight razor but I was getting a little burn on chin which was due to too much angle. Once I got better angle figured out there hasn't been any razor burn

 

[badrunner13]

1) where did the razor come from?
2) how are you maintaining it?
3) how many shaves have you had?

Something is wrong without a doubt. Answering the questions can help figure it out.

This, we need more info.

 

[ladykate]

I only get burn if I try to use a dull razor and scrape too much. However, like wuz sed. Need more info on your case. Could be 'both' as you surmised.

 

[Flask]

This, we need more info.

The razor came from one of the members here.
It came shave ready, I have stropped it a few times.
Only used it maybe 3x, did two passes, then finished with a SE.
It does cut the arm hair nicely, (as in testing).
Next time I will only do one pass, and finish off with something else. Likely tomorrow.
I have used the shavettes on and off over the years, but never got burn like I have with the Straights.
Thanks for the responses guys.

 

[Doc226]

More likely it is the technique you are using, but I get that burning feeling with synthetics.

How was the razor finished?

 

[tomjr]

sounds like it needs a hone if your technique is OK. the stropping might have turned the edge, again it will need a hone.

 

[Flask]

More likely it is the technique you are using, but I get that burning feeling with synthetics.

How was the razor finished?

Not sure, but I think it was lapping film.

 

[Flask]

sounds like it needs a hone if your technique is OK. the stropping might have turned the edge, again it will need a hone.

Yes, just learning to strop, so may have messed up the edge.
I have some lapping film, may try to see if I can put a better edge on it.

 

[wherndon]

I may be off base here, but if the shave is harsh, and the blade good and sharp, maybe a newspaper strop to tame it a bit...