Thread: 2nd shave: don't know how ya'll do it.

Originally Posted by BYUTexan

I tried my 2nd shave ever with my Bengall razor. I was scared straight. I had some trouble on my 1st pass (WTG), and a ton of trouble going XTG and then ATG. I missed some spots, couldn't find a flat enough surface other than my cheeks and did pretty much all touch up mode shaving to make sure I didn't miss anything or cut myself. It was very difficult. I have achieved my worst results ever so far using a straight compared to my Merkur DE and the old Gillette Fusion. How do I cross that gap?

What kind of trouble did you have on the first pass?

I'm only a few months in myself and still learning. There are some great videos on technique; aside from Lynn's DVD, look for shaving videos from SRP members xman and jockeys. I'm sure others have videos but I found those two particularly useful in trying to figure out how to hold the blade.

Jockeys notes several times that you should be using almost no pressure. JimmyHAD has a sig that mentions holding the blade securely, but lightly. When I actually started applying these two philosophies my shaves got much better -- fewer weepers and less irritation. I have fairly sensitive skin so I only do with- and across-the-grain.

Also, as others noted, get the easy areas down pat WTG first. I started with cheeks and neck for my first 2 or 3 shaves before braving my lip/chin area. HTH and good luck!

In case you need one more person to recommend going at a slower pace, let me add my two cents. You need a couple of weeks just doing the flat part of your dominant side cheek with the grain. Once you are comfortable figure out if you are going to continue with your dominant hand on the other cheek or if you are going to use your non-dominant hand. Consider another week or two before moving on. There is no problem finishing up with your double edge. Go slow and enjoy the journey.

Lewis

Personally I think that the term BBS should be stricken from the forum
(screwed up the quote thing!)
I agree entirely. The whole concept and usage of the phrase 'BBS' within the commonplace vernacular of our community has resulted in way too many unrealistic expectations from newer shavers. Its a catchphrase that could never broadly apply to any of us all of the time every time.
DAMN THE TERM BBS TO HELL!!
BAN BBS!

Well I am a Newbie at this too and have to admit that after TWO shaves with my new Dovo. I have only done the side burns, cheeks and neck area. I have not tried to do the chin yet.

Too new to go for it all still.

I finish with my Fusion and hope to do more and more with my Dovo without pushing too hard.

I love the shave I am getting with it and only have one nick so far.

I am sure more will come now that I said I only have one so far.

So to sum it up.

I am a Newbie too but just taking it SLOW!