Thread: Advice needed for beginner

Hello,
My name is Pete. Over the past couple of years, as I have actively resisted change and mourned the passing of the 20th century (and the WWII generation that ran it), I have began the process of embracing proven technology of the past that does not rely on expanding the household budget. Since the "safety razor" can no longer be categorized as an economical alternative to the straight razor, I am shelving it as an "non-value add''.

Beginning to shave with a straight razor goes hand in hand with my campaign to bring back rimmed hats. Therefore, when my spouse surprised me this Christmas with a Dovo Shavette, I was thrilled. I have been shaving with it the past several days, armed with technique information from the internet. I have not done too poorly, but I am wondering if I should purchase a legitimate straight razor, as I have read that the shavette can be harsh and am finding this to be true.

Of course it is early in my developing skill, but I have sensitive skin and I am experiencing some razor burn and bumps. I recall this happening when I first learned to shave with a safety razor, and any time I tried to use electric. I am also wondering if the pre-shave oil and or after shave are causing an allergic reaction, because I am experiencing some reddening of my cheeks above where I shave.

I am seeking advice on these issues, as well as what would be a good straight razor for a beginning lefty. I have always been a technical person who likes to learn a new skill at the foot of the master, or in this case, from the countless masters monitoring this forum.

I am looking forward to any and all advice, and to enjoying the experience of becoming a competant straight razor user.

Thank you much,
Pete

Could be allergic reaction to pre shave oil, but I can garuntee that your face will need to adjust to the razor. Give it a few days to heal before you go at it again and welcome to SRP!

welcome to SRP, Pete.

I'm not quite sure why a shavette will be 'harsh'. The blades are exactly the same as the ones used in a safety razor, so they are sharp and smooth. Now lack of good skill can certainly be a cause for razor burn, but that's true with anything.
My problem with shavette type razors is that they feel kinda flimsy and the blades are shorter than a regular straight edge. But they can certainly provide great shave. But I'd suggest you try a good straight razor too. From your post it seems like it will fit your temperament, especially a vintage one (but I may be wrong, you know better what you like).

I do think having to direct the angle of the blade myself is causing irritation, which made me wonder if the shavette is more unforgiving than a standard straight. I wasn't sure, but your observations concerning the differences in blades makes sense.
Thanks for the insight and sound advice.
Pete

Welcome to SRP, Pete. I found myself experiencing a lot of irritation and bumps as well when I first started. I soon discovered that it was due to poor technique (specifically angle issues and too much pressure). Combine a light touch with proper prep, stretching, and some practice and you'll be in for a treat.

Enjoy the shaves, don't get discouraged, and enjoy the process.

Originally Posted by Peterman

Beginning to shave with a straight razor goes hand in hand with my campaign to bring back rimmed hats.

Bring back rimmed hats? Dear sir, they never left!

Welcome to SRP! Of course you should buy a straight razor, it is, after all, part of the journey. You are in good company here. As a newbie to this myself, I assure you that there is more to it than simple mechanics which my words can not adequately describe.

This may seem a bit "off base" here and on a topic unrelated to shaving, but I would like to refer to you a book: "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance". It may be analogous, it's the only thing I can grasp and offer you at this time.

Please forgive my clumsy and cumbersome way........

Welcome to SRP Pete!

I would say to put some miles on the Dovo Shavette your spouse gifted you. It's better in the long run w/ relations. Move onto straights in a few months. This will give you time to research your purchase and ask questions here.

As for the irritation and bumps, it is a result of your technique. Extremely light pressure and the proper angle will help out here. Since your spouse helped you into the craft ask for assistance in your technique. I had my wife watch me a few time when I was first starting out. There were lots of places on my face I could only see put the corner of my eye and wasn't able to get the proper angle. With some assistance form your spouse you will develop a feel for the correct angle and greatly reduce or eliminate the razor burn/irritation. Start shaving only with the grain of your beard growth. Once you eliminate the irritation you can move to XTG and ATG (across the grain and against the grain). Performing these passes too soon will prolong your learning curve. Also note that different manufactures of the blades for your shavette will give different results.

Be sure to prep properly. A hot shower followed by a shave works best. Lastly be sure to use a good shave soap or shave cream and not the stuff out of a can. While not the best, Williams Shave Soap and a boar brush from CVS may be a good start and on the cheap. If you would like to spend more money read through the SOTD's and see what everyone else is using and read some soap/cream reviews. SRD (www.StraightRazorDesigns) is selling some good shave soaps under their own brand for ~ $8. There will be plenty of time to branch out and find the perfect soap/cream for you but just be sure to get away from the canned stuff.

If you are looking to be frugal in shaving by getting away from the safety razors you may be surprised by the RAD, SAD, HAD and other acquisition disorders you may contract as you progress.

Good luck!

A quick question:

What pre-shave treatment are you using?

Also, a detail of your prep would be good to see. One nice thing about the shavette is that we can already rule out the edge and possible incorrect stropping.

Welcome to SRP! We are always glad to see someone beginning the journey!
-Rob

My shavette was purchased at The Art of Shaving, and I followed the advice and directions on the package that contained their Pre-shave oil, shaving cream, and after-shave. I shaved following a hot shower. After reading the responses to my initial post, I am wondering if my skin irritation is due to incorrect angle and excessive pressure.

I also did a second pass against the grain, and I think I'll stick with one pass for now as Joed suggests.

I have a quick question. I have read elsewhere online that nicks come from beginning the stroke only. That is, when the stroke begins and ends you should not cut yourself. Is this true?

Thanks,
Pete

Hi Pete,

I couldn't possibly shave with a shavette. They are needlessly rough. Another example of a good idea not completely thought out. A true straight has a long learning curve though. Keep that in mind.

I didn't see your second question. I think the idea that you can only cut yourself at the beginning of a stroke is nonsense.