Well, I just finished my first shave

[RobertoCFG]

Just two minor nicks, nothing ugly. I have to confess, I ignored some advice and didn't stop at my left cheek. Maybe it was because I felt that with each pass, I was getting my technique a bit better (you know that newbie feeling heheh). However, I think all went pretty good based on the fact that I had never shaved with a straight before.

The shave? Well, of course I'm far away from a BBS shave, but it's not that bad (still nothing I would brag about, though). My skin was a bit irritated but I've read that it's normal, as my skin is getting used to the new shaving method. It's already getting better actually.

Overall, I'm really happy. Can't wait for my next shave.

PS. What would you recommend? Shave tomorrow or let a couple of days pass?

[Sigurd Aaset]

Well done!
You can probably shave again tomorrow. Just feel you skin before you're about to shave. If there's still irritation, I'd recommend waiting another day before shaving again.

[jhenry]

Roberto,

Congratulations on your first shave. Happy to hear that it went well.

As for your question...Go ahead and let your face rest a day. Some irritation/razor burn is to be expected. Let your face heal. After all, the skin on your face has to adapt to the new type of traditional technology you are now using to shave with.

When I first began using a str8 last December, I begn by using my str8 once a week, on weekends. I got razor burn my first couple of times. Then I began shaving with a str8 razor 2-3 times a week. Today, I shave with a str8 razor almost every morning and get no razor burn at all.

My point is this...There is no need to rush into this activity. Patience as well as perfecting your stropping, shaving technique and proper post-shave care of your face (ie. aftershave shave balm and/or a mild astringent such as witch hazel) will pay huge dividends in the long run.

[Pabster]

You had to go for it and I did the same thing. Let two plus days go before shaving again.

Great Job and welcome to SRP and straight shaving!

Pabster

[RayG]

Good job! I remember I was just like you the first time I straight shaved - I just had to do the whole face. It must have taken 45 minutes but the lather did not dry since it was wetted by the sweat dripping from my brow!

If you are getting irritation, be mindful of your angle and pressure. And be sure you are stretching well. Assuming you have the prep down, that is.

It will only get better.

[JimmyHAD]

Roberto, cool that you got through the shave with minimal damage. As far as skipping a day see how you feel when it is shave time again and decide then. BTW, I used a DE to finish my problem areas, i.e. my chin and neck around my windpipe for the first two or three weeks. No shame in that. Your technique and razor handling skills will improve with every shave. Read my sig below to avoid nicks and cuts. Still works for me most days.

[kcarlisle]

Great job! I see some threads from first timers with a photo in the thread showing cuts an inch or so long. Even after experience, minor nicks can be expected due to bumps, pimples & etc.. I've been straight razor shaving since last August and just did a little boo-boo on my upper lip that is debatable to be a nick or a cut. Although, I considered it to be a cut because it was all my fault and could have been prevented by more caution. Now that I think about it, that's a good way to distinguish the difference between a cut or a nick...A cut is my fault...A nick is unavoidable! LOL!

[vampyrewolf]

I'm just starting out too. Gone from shaving once a week with a schick quattro to shaving every 2nd day with a straight. Using one with replaceable blades while I wait for a few to come back from getting cleaned up, and just won another one on ebay an hour ago (one of the ones I sent off will be the one I learn to hone and strop on).

I notice my skin is looking better than it used to.

I'm probably a few weeks of experience away before I can get away with shaving daily (I had a full beard off and on for the better part of 7 years because I got razor burn every time), and I'm sick of paying for cartridges.

I'd say it all depends on how your skin feels a day later. If it's still a bit raw, leave it for a day. You're better off with a day's stubble than aggravated skin.