Hello, Jesseblues:

Welcome to SRP.

If your parents say no to the straight razor for now, I suggest accepting their decision. I know I would expect that of my children were they your age.

This is what I suggest for you, with your parents' approval, of course: Begin using a brush with soap or cream for your preparation, because this is an essential part of shaving with a straight razor. It is part of the colorful ritual.

Again with your parents' approval, buy a good double edge safety razor. I am quite fond of the Edwin Jagger 89L and always recommend it. For blades, try any of the Gillette 7 O'Clock series, Derby or Personna. I use the Feather. Other double edge shavers have their own favorites. You will, too, after some experimentation.

What's most import is that the double edge will teach you some of the essential requirements you will need in the future for the straight razor.

For instance, the straight razor requires patience and extreme care. So does the double edge to its own degree. Using light pressure is important in both the straight razor and the double edge. So is mapping out the face and the direction in which the hair grows. The list goes on.

In the meantime, until you are ready for the straight razor in a few years, or whenever your parents allow it, dig into the vast information offered at SRP on straight razor shaving. Scores of shaving videos are also available on the Internet. Watch the good ones over and over again. Books are also available on the subject. Finally, if you have questions, ask them and you will have your answer in no time from SRP members.

In the end, is the straight razor for you? I believe it is — in the future. Or at least until all current variables and deterrents are resolved.

Good luck to you.

Regards,

Obie