Thread: Sensitive Skin Straight Shaving

I am wanting to get into the straight shaving game, but I have VERY sensitive skin. Like I'm talking getting razor burn on my neck almost every time I shave.

I am looking into straight razors, soaps and aftershaves. I plan on doing as much research as possible before making any decisions on a razor, soap or aftershave. I guess my main questions are: Does the size, or shape of a razor help with sensitive skin? Are there any soaps that are better for sensitive skin to prevent razor burn? And are the any aftershaves that are better for sensitive skin?

I am open to any suggestions and information.

Thanks,

Dalton

adaltonr, razor can be any size or shape. The problem lies in several areas. Razor burn usually is caused by too much pressure of the blade against the skin. Old saying, Shave the Lather, Not the Skin. A lot of stretching of skin as you shave also helps alleviate razor burn. Go for unscented soaps/creams where possible. A couple that come to mind (and that I use) are, Aveeno Theraputic Shaving Cream, Coate's Lavender Shaving Cream for sensitive skin, Mitchells Wool Fat, Maca Root. Nivea Aftershave Balm for sensitive skin is my standout balm. But, as a beginner, I'd say your biggest problem is learning to lighten the pressure used. If you were using a multi horror razor before you were pressing it in to your skin. With a straight razor with stretching you are raising the stubble so that you are only cutting the hairs.
Hope this helps.

Also, if you list in your bio where you are located local members might contact you for one on one sessions where hands on can teach you a heck of a lot more than posting. Also you should be able to find a mentor in your area who is definitely more than willing to help you get started the right way.

Originally Posted by adaltonr

... I'm talking ... razor burn ... almost every time I shave.

Shaving with what, D'ton?

I have super sensitive skin too. I recently switched to straight razor shaving and I currently use Porasso white. I still get a bit of razor burn most likely cause I need to work on technique more, but I'm never going back. I used get burn and bumps so bad I couldn't shave for a week or two after. Now I shave every other day with no issue and my skin is left feeling nice.

Razorfeld,

I think I mislead you, I have not yet started straight shaving, just started research to figure out what would be the right stuff for me before making any purchases (not wanting to waste what budgeted money I have). I'm not sure if the same thing applies to shaving with disposable razors, but I will try it and see what comes of it.
Thank you for the suggestion and tips.

Dalton

I have sensitive skin and the highest factor in avoiding irritation is maintaining the edge. A sharper blade means very little pressure and fewer strokes are required and it glides through the lather.

My skin has cleared up very nicely since i started straight shaving, I just have extra incentive to maintain the edge!

The key to sensitive skin is shaving in a sensible fashion. That means minimum pressure and proper angle and a sharp razor and the skill to wield it.

+1 on the comments above. One possible additional piece: a number of users here find that they get less irritation from a cold shave. Or, at least, that going overkill on hot water, hot towels, etc, can court irritation.

But light blade pressure and other elements of shaving technique come first, for sure.

[Qshave the lather. good to know, and make it simple.

When used properly a straight razor is actually the best razor for sensitive skin because it is the ultimate adjustable razor where you control all the variables. Of course the problem is reaching that level of proficiency.

Razor burn was never really an issue for me but razor bumps were. After I switched to a straight and learned how to shave properly those bumps are now all but a memory.