Still Alive

[DickW]

Just finished with my 1st straight shaving experience. I really focused on the cheeks only and finished the rest with a DE(also my 1st time with a DE).

So the finished product was one small nick on the lower neck region, which was from the DE. The cheeks are possibly smoother than they've ever been, even the wife commented that she's never felt my face be so smooth.

I have a long road ahead, that's for sure. I know for a fact that my technique, prep and lather were directly related to some pulling on many different regions of my face. But there were a few strokes where everything felt smooth, no pulling, perfect angles, and I'll admit that it felt good to have it dialed in, if only for a moment.

All in all, mission accomplished with no major cuts, nicks, or other trauma that required more than some cold water to stop the bleeding

So starts the road of dedication and perfection.

 

[DickW]

So just posted about the 1st shave, about 1 minute ago, sudden burning on the throat...ouch.......

 

[Luc]

Good work on the first shave! The burning is most likely related to too much pressure. When using a straight, you need to be sure that your prep and lather are top quality. It's often one of the issues.

 

[joshmpdx]

Nice DC!

I used an Alum block for first couple of weeks when i was learning that light pressure actually meant "light" pressure.

 

[Gustav]

Welcome to B&B! I do not think I have seen this before: 1st on both straights and DEs and it would seem that you did really well. What were you using before and what made you switch?

 

[Zephyr]

Welcome to B&B! I do not think I have seen this before: 1st on both straights and DEs and it would seem that you did really well.

+1

Congrats on your first straight/DE shave!

Why settle with one when you can jump in and do both at the same time?

Altough I think it could be wise to focus on learning the technique one at the time

 

[DickW]

I guess that the main reason I switched from cartridge style(Mainly Fusion) shaving was I couldn't keep spending $25 every time I need a new razor and I've been developing areas of skin that have become very sensitive and dry after shaving. I'm not sure if it was from the blades themselves or the actual Gel creams I've been using for years. And ultimately I will be leaving to a new country and want to be fully prepared for anything when it comes to shaving, I like the idea of having everything I need in my bag and not having to be concerned about loading up on my supplies before leaving or having to find "my" razor in a foreign country. Straight razors and DE just makes sense right now. I also know a couple of people that have been using straights and DE razors for years, it interested me to the point that I purchased some gear, and so here I am.

I'm going to pick up a Alum block this week to help with the burn, going for round 2 tonight. There's a few spots I missed yesterday and I need the practice. I know almost everyone I have spoke with said to focus on on either straights or DE shaving in the beginning.

But I only live once and I'm going to learn both right now. It's actually kind of nice to be able to work with the straight for a few minutes and then switch over to the DE for some of the more scary areas of the face, for me anyway. One of my goals was to learn to use the straight razor and I will continue to pursue it. But hey, why not learn how to use my backup at the same time

I'm hoping that it wasn't just beginners luck and I continue to see better results over the next few weeks. Unfortunately I'll be in a new country soon and I'm not sure how the internet is going to work out, so I'll probably be taking a break from posting in December.

One thing that was difficult for me was the proper handling of the straight, seems a bit tricky at first. The cheek areas didn't seem too difficult, but I'm a bit apprehensive about getting around the chin and upper lip...yikes! Also, going across the grain didn't happen last night, only up and down, I don't trust my self enough yet to start going across my face.

I'm waiting for a strop to arrive, so I'm going to stick with the DE for couple of days, but as soon as it gets here I'm going to start right back up. Thanks for the positive comments too and don't be afraid to hassle me once in awhile. I'm a smart *** and enjoy others who are too.