Thread: Shaving the Chin/Jaw and How Often

Hey everyone, so I've been using a straight razor for a month or two now and I've run into two issues that I have yet to get past. The first is shaving around my chin and jaw-line. I normally use my right hand for both jaws, and chin, but I have a lot of trouble with getting the angle, and especially the area of the chin itself.

My second problem is how often to actually shave. I've found that more frequently it does not seem to really do anything. If it wait a week or so, then the hairs seem to be thick enough to get a good shave, however I still find these spots, mainly close to the lips or right under the nose, where there are these almost clear white hairs that I can't seem to cut with the razor. I also notice this kind of thing in other areas to, like upper chin right under the lip, and again the jaw line.

Any tips for remedying these issues would be greatly appreciated,

much thanks

Well, starting with #2...you're lucky to not have a beard (like I do) that is a pain to shave if I go more than 24 hours...so you'll have to wait on someone else to answer that one for you, but...

On shaving problems with the chin and jaw area, you're not alone. Learning to navigate those areas is different for everyone. I'm almost a year in, and I still struggle and experiment. Spending some time really studying the direction of your beard there helps, as a WTG pass followed by XTG pass (or two) or even ATG grain on the jawline usually solves the hand choice, grip and angle issue. Personally, I've never been comfortably able to go ATG with ANY type of razor, even cartridge without causing razor burn, but a couple of XTG passes from slightly different angles after my initial WTG pass works for me. Keep experimenting (carefully). One day you'll find what's comfortable and works for you.

I normally use my left hand for the left side and right hand on the right side when going North to South. I then switch to right hand only on both sides for the E-W and S-N (total 3 passes).
The chin was my bain, however with a year's worth of practice, it is getting better. I don't cut myself nearly as often (and when I do, it no longer bleeds too badly) and the shave is a lot closer.

Keep your blade sharp and practice the angles and pressure. As far as the "fuzz' hairs, I believe a sharp blade should cut them, but I have been wrong before. I will defer that answer to more knowledgeable gentlemen.

Jaw line, (Skin stretching) open your mouth and pull the skin above the jaw and shave that. Always try to shave on a flat spot. And what BDRebel says about using both hands will make shaving a lot easier. Videos can be very helpful check Youtube out.

I don't shave my chin but twice a year so I'm not sure I would be much help with that

I would first ensure your razor is proper sharp. if you are sure of that then your technique would be suspect. it's hard to give advice because everyone is so different. You need to map out your beard and the growth pattern and decide the type of strokes you need to get the job done. Also keep in mind it can take many months to get all this down. It does not come quick.

Not being able to get some of the hairs is a trouble sign. That is usually a technique thing. You either need to alter the angle or the approach.

it's all about experimenting.

I'd investigate trying to use both hands; I know it feels really odd at first but if you persevere it can pay dividends. You can practice the hold and angles using a butter knife. Take it easy around the chin and concentrate on the angle; don't let the razor go too steep; and use very light very short strokes.

In regards to frequency, there's probably little benefit to shaving more often than one needs to, other than the pure entertainment :-)

In regards to the fine, soft hairs, I have a light beard growth (I could never grow a full beard) and have some light, soft hairs around the lips; and I'm 52 not a college student like you. I sometimes tackle these with a DE (I use a DE maybe once or twice a week) but, as has been mentioned, if your razor is truly sharp it should cut them.

Carl

I have been shaving with a straight for about the same amount of time, so I am not qualified to offer tips on technique. I have two suggestions that have been helpful to my learning curve. First, part of my shave routine involves watching this video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bEuBjF_RaM

and practicing some skin stretching before I lather up. Second, I found a beauty supply chain store that carries a cheap plastic shavette "Magic Razor" for less than $10. I practiced handling the "razor" in both hands and spent some time stretching and "practice shaving" to develop a light touch, watch angles and acclimate my left hand to the motions. I found that if I have more than one days growth, the bladeless shavette grabs the whiskers so I cut a plastic hotel room key and placed it in the holder to approximate my 6/8 blade thickness. I've never put a real blade in the thing and do not intend to.

I've been lurking here for a while and hope this gives a little back to the community that has provided me with so much helpful information. Good Luck!