Thread: How much is Light Pressure...

OK, so I generally consider myself to be good at following instructions... And after reading on this thread for over a year, and using a SR for about 8 months, and reading many, many times that only minimal pressure should be used while shaving, I was sure that my technique was fairly descent. However, I still felt a bit of burn after my shaves.

Well, this morning, I specifically tried to use even less pressure than usual. If my normal routine was "light", then today I tried to use "extra-extra-light" just barely letting the razor touch the skin. And guess what?? The hair still came off nice and clean, and I didn't get any burn!!

I must say that a second key element to this formula, is to have a proper sharp razor. If it's just starting to dull a bit, either it won't cut the beard, or you'll use too much pressure to get it to cut the hair. Also, I think a razor that is starting to dull won't have an edge that is as smooth, and might cause micro-scratches on your skin, that can cause razor burn.

So, to sum up... If you're new to SR Shaving, and you think you're using light pressure... Use even lighter pressure. If the beard doesn't come off your face, get a sharper razor.

Just my $0.02

Well done! Although I don't focus on using a light touch, I try not to let the razor touch the skin.

After more than ten years, I still have to remind myself to use less pressure.

Very good advice, less is better, especially when relating to pressure while shaving.

Originally Posted by Utopian

After more than ten years, I still have to remind myself to use less pressure.

I suspect most of do, I know for darn sure I do!

Originally Posted by Utopian

After more than ten years, I still have to remind myself to use less pressure.

Same here after 8 years

You have crossed a threshold!! Congrats!

And the light bulb comes on...If you are like me you will have to keep reminding yourself of this. Or shave with a "proper" spike and it will remind you...just not so gently.

It's such an amazing break through right!?! I also have to be mindful of my pressure or I get razor burn. I guess that's what we get for being such burly manly straight shaving men.

The OP makes an interesting point about razor edge vs. pressure. I've often caught myself using more pressure as the edge on a razor gets a bit muddy and I can say that more pressure is certainly no substitute for a touch up hone . I'm in the process of training my OCD so that if a razor's edge is found to be muddy mid shave, I'll just put it away, grab one that I know has a better edge and press on. Progress is slow and I generally try to finish up just one more shave (even if a touch up hone is required). Result- Really bad shave and me asking myself "Why didn't you just pull that razor and finish up with one you knew was good?"