First ATG pass - BBS!

[HenrikWL]

So, I did my first full WTG - XTG - ATG routine today. Result: BBS!

I had some small nicks, but no cuts. I don't sweat it though, as I've had a few small zits and bumps lately. These things never bleed much anyway. I also experienced some amount of burning, but I chalk that up to inexperience with ATG passes as well as my lather was running a bit thin today.

Another thing I did today, was try the good old fashioned alcohol splash. And then I remembered why I didn't like them. The pain was actually not the worst of it. It was the mess it made. First off, when pouring from the bottle, quite a bit of liquid ran down the side of the bottle, dripping everywhere. Second, when rubbing my hands together in prep for applying it, a good deal ran down my arms. Third, after having applied the splash to my face, even after washing them my hands (and everything they touch) smell like this aftershave.

Is there an ancient, dark secret to applying alcohols splashes that clandestine monks have guarded in desolate monasteries for centuries, or is what I've described just something that alcohol splashers learn to live with?

All in all however, I'm more than satisfied with the shave. The alcohol splash didn't leave my face feeling dry like I feared it would, although I think I still prefer an aftershave balm.

[AlanII]

Cool result. Great feeling isn't it? As regards the after shave, I've never really got on with them, sensitive skin and all that. I much prefer the balms too. Since starting with a straight though, I've discovered the (for me) joys of an alum block all over, cold rinse and followed by alcohol free balm. Might be worth a go?

[Black Beard]

I would think the only real dark secret with the alcohol splash is..... Pour it carefully and use it more sparingly.

[cwrighta70]

Congrats on the good shave.

My advice on the alcohol-based AS is this... Don't put it on the shaved areas of your face. This will usually just dry out the skin and leave a less-than-satisfying look and feel to your face during the day. I love the scent of the alcohol AS, so I put a little bit on my fingers and rub under my ears and on the lower neck. Then I use unscented balm on the shaved areas.

No burn, but you still get the wonderful smell of Pinaud Clubman or Aqua Velva or whatever suits your fancy

[jnich67]

Congrats on the shave! Sounds like you did great. Keep at it.

On the a/s - and I'm a big fan of the a/s splashes - If the opening is large, put your finger or thumb over it and only let about 1/2 a tspn. into your palm. If the opening has that plastic spout-like thing that allows you to "shake" out a few splashes, do 2-3. If its dry out, I'll use a light balm about 10-15 minutes after the splash. You'll figure out the mechanics that work for you. Play around with a few of them. I bet you'll grow to love them!

Jordan