Thread: Skin Irritation

So what are the general common causes of skin irritation AND what in your personal experience have/had you found to cause skin irritation after a SR shave. I know there are a bunch of links, but I'm interested to see if peoples causes vary or if there is a trend.

I think the consensus for the vast majority of men is too much pressure. After handling a disposable for years and applying crazy amounts of pressure, the notion of a light touch and using the reduction method takes some time to sink in.

Another cause is the soap or cream you're using. In some cases, you may find that something in it does not agree with your skin and leave your face red and burning. I have a hard time using many creams/soaps that are HIGHLY scented. Other than that, earcutter covered most of it.

Too much pressure is a big reason. Also a blade that is not sharp enough and causes you to go over an area too many times as well as blade angle (too steep of an angle) can be a cause. If your lather is too dry or too watery that can also be an issue. There can be many reasons but with practice, these can be reduced or even eliminated. My straight shaves are even more gentle to my skin than my DE shaves ever were and I am still quite early into my Straight shaving career.

The shaves really do get better and better with more practice and focusing on your prep and technique.

+1 to David

Also, you really need to moisturize your skin. Your beard will be softer and your skin will be less irritated.

I'd guess first and foremost too much pressure, wrong blade angle, lousy lather and possibly a dull blade with a harsh edge. You could also have a reaction to something in the cream/soap.

Bob

1.) Too much pressure
2.) Too steep of an angle
3.) Too poor of a edge
4.) Too little/dry beard preparation

+1 to the above

I'd like to add that trying to finish a shave that feels bad is a bad idea. If the razor doesn't feel nice, stop.
For me I need more prep because of my beard coarseness.

It's interesting to see the responses, I thought there would have been more deviation in the answers, but it appears that there are four common causes for most people.

What will drive you nuts at times is to figure out which is the main culprit and which are just helping to make it worse.

Bob