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.

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

Originally Posted by adaltonr

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

As others have mentioned, there are soaps/creams and aftershaves/balms specially formulated for sensitive skin. Silvertip badger is the softest brush. Buy a razor that is shave ready, because that enables the razor to do the work so you don't have to apply too much pressure to your face.

I have sensitive skin, too.

[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.

I have sensitive skin as well. To echo others, a properly honed, sharp razor is your best friend for avoiding irritation as you do not press too hard when shaving.

I would add a few other recommendations:

1. Use a soap with glycerin in it. I have gotten good results with Mama Bear soaps as well as Mystic Waters (which also has tallow) soaps. These soaps are a little harder to lather, but they keep your skin more moisturized while shaving. Overall, this results in less iritation.

2. Use alum post shave. The alum helps close cuts, close up pores, and soothe irritation. Alum blocks are cheap, and I find them superior to alcohol based after shaves.

3. Finish the shave off with a simple moisturizer. Coconut oil is also an excellent alternative (I've been using it lately, to good effect).

I believed that I had really sensitive skin, too, until a wise old barber (my grandfather!) straightened me out with these pearls of wisdom:

• Beard prep is crucial - shaving after a shower is best
• Always use a light hand - the edge does the work, not you
• A dull edge is irritating - you'll tend to use more pressure with a dull blade

And one of my own that's a corollary to the last one:

• Trying to save money by squeezing extra shaves out of a cartridge merely means that you're undoubtedly using dull blades

i think you'll be pleased. I started with double edge and had to try to learn straight shaving. I get a lot less irritation than with double edge shaving. I only get irritation when I do a third pass against the grain. Jump in

My razor burn issue went away when I figured out what no pressure really meant. I had a tendency to try get most of my beard on the first pass. Do not do that. The other mistake I made was not re-wetting between lathering. It was not about pre and post product for me. It was about technique.