Thread: First shave complete

Originally Posted by tjiscooler

What kind of soap are you using? sounds like it may be lathering technique, each soap is different and finding the right balance is crucial. Also would your name have anything to do with the band?

soap? I think he's using American crew shaving cream. The cream I use requires so little water to create a good lather that I have to be careful to make sure the brush is not dripping wet

I think you'll be happy you ventured out with your left hand in the shave as it makes shaving so much simpler. It's easier to make a bloody mistake when you are contorting and reaching and stretching and can't see all at the same time (which is what I did during my first shave using only one hand to shave with). There are some who claim to have mastered one-handed shaving though. I'd rather master the easier method if I have a choice

hey guys,
Third shave down, 0 cuts/nicks

But the shave is not amazingly close, i think this is the blade needing a strop, badly.
Unfortunatly i dont have one.


And Classic shaving is out of stock of the dovo one i was after.


Also i tried using my left hand some more, went ok but i think practice will make perfect.
I think i am really progressing and getting the hang of this.
How important is after shave ? what do people suggest?
I am after somthing earthy and masculin if that helps.
Also soap wise, i have taken a good look around from the tips and links given allthough as i am in australia i think i will order everything from Classic shaving.

im well addicted.

Oh and yes, Btbam is completely about the band.

much respect

I'd forgo the Dovo and get yourself a Tony Miller Strop. His starter strops are highly recommended for a fair price, or you can go all out and get a nice Heirloom Strop.

Using your left hand is very helpful, especially once you perfect it.

Aftershave depends on how sensitive your skin is. I personally love the alcohol-based AS such as Aqua Velva and Pinaud Clubman. Others like AS Balms such as Nivea or higher-end brands you can find at Classic Shaving

As far as soaps, I don't think Colleen's soaps can be beat. My personal favorite - Cavendish Black.

~Chris

I do lots of small strokes, low angle, to get a really close shave.

Doing long long strokes tends also to cut things off more, I get more unexplained bloody spots when I do that.

I didn't touch my adams apple until I had been shaving for 2 months...too scary.

YOU MUST HAVE A STROP. One shave is enough to take the edge off any blade and then it will start to hang up and irritate. Strop that puppy 25 strokes AFTER your shave, and then 30 just before the next, and it should glide through the whiskers easily.

In fact, I shave my cheeks, neck, and chin, then I go strop it 25 - 40 strokes, and then come back to do my mustachios and any against the grain stuff. It makes a difference. Strop, strop, strop. Stropping is your face's friend.

Hope this helps.

as i cant get a strop for the next couple weeks ( shipping to aus takes ages ) i have tried using my really nice thick leather belt.

It made a huge differance, the blade is still not perfect, but it is way sharper!

Now as i have shaved every morning the past 4 days my throat ( the only place ive beenshaving ) seems to have worn a little thin. I have gotten a fair bit of rash and little cuts but the razor did *seem* to cut alot better and closer.


Might leave it for two days till my next shave.

It's also typical to experience some razor burn/rash during the first few shaves. Your face skin needs to become accustomed to using a new kind of blade.

Keep it up!

~Chris