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So I have not actually started using a straight razor yet, but have been researching a bit. I have a "Harrison Ford" scar on my chin about 1 1/2 inches long. I have no problems shaving over it with my Mach 3, but my guess is that the ol' straight razor is a different story. I really don't want to find out the hard way though. Is this something that is doable, or should I re-consider? Any feedback would be much appreciated.
I have a mole that I used to cut regularly, no matter how much I concentrated. Now, I shave over the spot and never even think about it. I suspect the same will be true for your scar, which I doubt is more obtrusive (in height) than my mole.
At the worst, you will shave with a straight, and finesse with a traditional multi-blade razor. But, as I said, I suspect you will do fine with only a straight.
To start, shave around the scar lightly, WTG, with the lightest pressure only. Don't worry if it's not close. Slowly, work your technique. You will do fine.
If you don't have any problem now with the Mach III then you shouldn't have any trouble with a straight. I have a scar on my chin that I go lightly over but occasionally will get a nick if I apply too much pressure. The answer is "light pressure".
bj
I have a big ol' scar under my chin (like still 1/2" wide by 2" long) and shave without any worries.
I think that this is because you have to really stretch the skin when you shave with a straight, and I've found that I invariably pull the skin tight enough that the scar smoothes out and doesn't have too much of a depression or ridges.
Mark
I have a scar under my chin and it is a non factor when straight shaving or using the Mach 3. Take the plunge and get going, its the only way to go.
Pabster
Thank you all for the advise. I won't have to worry about the scar for a few months as I am about to start my "winter beard". Maybe I'll go ahead and get one now and just use it to trim my beard for now.
Does anyone know a good place to buy one near Fort Worth, Tx. Or is online the way to go?
It should not be a problem. I have a 'Y' scar on my chin from three separate stitchings, and I do not seem to have a problem. As previously stated, you should just go slowly and lightly until you have a feel for that area.
I have a 1/2" scar under my chin in an area I would consider "high maintenance". That means that it is in an area that routinely receives 4 passes per shave: 1 WTG, 2 XTG and 1 ATG. I have never opened up that scar while straight shaving (or DE shaving), so I can't offer any advice about how to deal with this problem.
I can suggest that not conciously thinking about your scar whilst shaving may be a help. I never think about mine and it seems to work for me.
I have a 2" vertical scar beside my right ear and the blade just slides over it so I think you won't have a problem as long as you don't apply too much pressure on the area.Quote:
Originally Posted by Timmyb
Good luck!
I have a few scars that I straight shave without any problems. Of course I didn't have any scars on my face until I started learning to shave with a straight!:D Just remember light pass. I usually don't apply much pressure anyway and find that I get closer shaves when I don't over pressure.
Once your hand learns the curves of your face, you won't have a problem. Your grip will allow the razor to slide over and around all facial obstacles. Before this muscle memory happens, use a light touch and practice shaving on other parts of your face. So, don't worry jump in, the shaving's fine!
Cheers!
Dang! It just reminded me that I, too, have a quite thick scar on my chin (don't ever drink and ride a bike!! :nono: ) I haven't tackled it yet, cause I currently I have a goatee...)
I've a bump on my left cheek ( prior to straight razor shaving ) and rather than go over the bump with the SR, I finesse my way around it to slice the whiskers.
You'll find that once you use a SR you'll truly know what it means to "have the closest shave" compared to anything out on the market. :Beer: