Thread: My first try and problems and problems...

umm theres a lot to answer in only one question
maybe your blade isnt sharp. If its not honed by a pro im pretty sure its not up to par.
but you need prep. I only shave right after a shower so i dont really need the hot towel
also a good shave soap or creme helps
and reed this http://straightrazorpalace.com/begin...ead-first.html

+1 to Janivars comments. Read that post he references, and read the Wiki as well. Theres a link at the top of the page for that one.

There are four elements of a great shave:

- A shave ready razor
- Good stropping
- Good lather and prep
- Good technique

If one of these is missing then you'll feel it on your face..!

1) Make sure your razor is shave ready. A lot of sellers mark razors as shave ready when in fact they are not. Factory edges are usually done on a grinding wheel and then some stropping, but this rarely results in a good edge.

A shave ready razor will have been honed on various stones by someone who knows what they are doing. Check the classifieds for member services, or sites like SRD for honing services. If in doubt, get it honed. This takes care of one of the four elements.

2) Stropping is key to a good shave. You'll need a good quality strop and learn how to use it to get the best results.

Places like RupRazor sell good quality beginners strops. SRD also sells a wide range of strops.

When stropping, keep the pressure light and roll the razor over on the spine, never the edge. Keep the razor flat of the strop and concentrate on getting a good stroke. The speed will come later.

If you roll on the edge, or use too much pressure, you'll dull your edge and you'll need to send the razor to be rehoned.

3) Lather: Needs to be from a good quality soap and lots of it. Really work it into the beard with your brush and make sure it has that whipped cream consistency.

Prep: Get a flannel or hand towel, soak it in hot water and apply it to your face for a minute or two. If you shave after a shower, work some conditioner into your beard before you get out. This will also soften the beard.

4) Technique: Once you've got all the other elements sorted out, technique is really just down to practice..! Keep the angles at 30 degrees and keep a light touch. Too much pressure will give you razor burn or a cut. The same applys to your angles.

Its very common for newbies to have a bad shave and blame either the razor or their stropping, whereas its usually their prep or technique that lets them down.

Be prepared to spend a little time working all these elements out. When you get there the rewards are worth it!

Good luck!