Thread: Problems with Carbon Steel?

I would lean towards an improperly honed edge, some need edges more keen than others due to courseness of hair, the other is the soap being used.

Sounds like a galvanic skin reaction to the Swedish steel. You are probably allergic Thallium which is in higher concentration in Swedish ore compared to other iron ores in the world; well except maybe for iron ore from north east Canada. Either don't use Swedish steel or take a benedryl before using it - and if you ever have a nuclear tracer study done, make sure you tell the doctor that you might be allergic to thallium.

Originally Posted by criswilson10

Sounds like a galvanic skin reaction to the Swedish steel. You are probably allergic Thallium which is in higher concentration in Swedish ore compared to other iron ores in the world; well except maybe for iron ore from north east Canada. Either don't use Swedish steel or take a benedryl before using it - and if you ever have a nuclear tracer study done, make sure you tell the doctor that you might be allergic to thallium.

I think you must be right. The Swedish Steel razor was honed by a very renowned honemeister, so for that razor at least the edge shouldn't be a problem. It seems the problem is worse with certain carbon steel razors which would follow what you say. As ever - no problem with Dovo stainless and I think TI carbon razors aren't aggravating.

Thanks for your advice and the information.

Originally Posted by BobH

Not all carbon steels, including stainless steels, are made up of the same percentage mix of elements. One could have slightly more nickel content than the other for example.

Unless you are good at honing the best bet is to send a razor to a recognized pro honer, if possible, to ensure you have a truly shave ready edge. If you do that, do not strop the razor first before shaving the first time. That is to eliminate the possibility that your stropping is dulling the edge. If you strop before the second shave and the blade feels duller you will know that your stropping is a possible culprit wrt to dull edges.

Bob

It's a real surprise that carbon steels differ - I thought carbon steel was carbon steel. It makes sense that each contain different elements.

Several folks have commented on whether the carbon steel blade is sharp enough.

Another thing to consider is beard prep before shaving. Dry human hair is similar to copper wire of the same size, so the beard needs moisture to soften it.

Many men can shower and shave afterwards with no more prep. I'm not one of them. After a really short shower, I get out and hold a warm wet wash cloth on my face for a couple of minutes.

I also use pre-shave oil and let it work on my beard further while I take care of some other tasks.

The symptoms you are describing could be an allergy to the steel. They are also similar to the symptoms when effective beard prep and a sufficiently sharp razor are the issue.

Thanks. I am quite meticulous with prep and I have tried to keep consistent between razors, but I am mindful of the points you make.