OK, So i finally got my razor the other day and could not wit any longer. I Have not shaven in almost a year because I have really coarse hair and get ingrowns very easily. Once I get one, it seems to never go away, or will leave a black/red spot for months. If I havent repulsed you yet then read on. I couldn't wait to stockpile all my accessories so I went to Walgreen's and bought a boar brush, shaving soap, and aqua velva. This was the cheapest way I ws suggested to get started. I am going to order a strop from Tony today because I can't wait for my second shave. I normally only use (head) hair clippers to trim my facial hair to hide ingrowns. I still get them , but less often now. My girlfriend prefers me clean shaven, but I really don't have a preference.
OK, I went for a jog to get all sweaty and hot, then i got home and used a huge mug to get a nice foamy lather. I was surprised how much the soap bubbles up and became more creamy. I then set it in the sink with HOT water and took a HOT HOT HOT shower. I scrubbed my face and tried to rough it up as much as possible. Then I got out and got started. I was scared to death to take the first swipe, but I couldnt believe how easily it took the hair off. I took my time spent about 20 minutes shaving. I kept having to apply more foam and think I would like to try a cream instead of the cheap soap as soon as possible. The chin was last, and was the only difficult part. I finally nicked myself trying to get it all. I didn't even realize until afterI was completely done. I know I am not sharing a lot of detal, but I wanted to keep it short. I loved every stroke, was less afraid by the end and I am sure it will get easier every time. I am now going to blow todays paycheck on strop and cream. It is actually smoother than the picture looks, but I only did one pass because I don't have a strop, and I do not want to irritate my face. I shaved last night and so far, no irritation. In the pics, you can see i hadn't trimmed in a few days, but didnt want to trim before shaving either. I am going to order the pre shave oil and I cant wait for a strop to build up to 2 or 3 passes. Wish me luck!!!






you can see the nick in the last pic and the spots dont really look that bad in person either, but they are there. I hope a straight razor will help with this in time as well. Thanks for all the help and advice!