Second shave. Much better than the first.

Well, today I had my second shave. Nearly a week after my first one, mainly because I was on a trip with some friends and didn't have the time to shave in the weekend. Actually, I think it was for the best, as I let my skin rest.

While my first one was not a deal breaker, this one was much better. I got a cut on my cheekbone, around 3mm wide, and I don't even know when I got it, because I didn't notice until I was shaving my neck area. But apart from that, nothing to report. While I had to use the old Fusion for the finishing touches, I felt that the straight razor shave was closer and smoother than the first time. The reason may be that I used these days between the shaves to practice my stropping technique, making a better lather, and getting a better grip on the razor. The results? A closer, smother shave (at least closer and smoother than my first shave) with almost no irritation at all.

Still, I have a long road to get a perfect straight razor shave, but knowing that I'm getting better at it feels great.

So, to all fellow beginners out there: have patience, try to get better at your technique, practice, and take your time.

Cheers

Roberto, I am glad to hear that your second shave went better than your first. Spending some extra time on learning how to strop properly, making lather and how to handle the blade will only help you master this fine art of straight razor shaving. Keep up the good work and I look forward to hearing things are continuing to get better. As always feel free to ask any questions you may have and enjoy the journey :)

Roberto,
Congratulations on your great 2nd shave. They just get better and better and the learning curve shortens. I'll bet you are correct too. I bet you are getting better with your stropping. After you have a keen edge, the trick is to maintain it and that requires correct stropping that does not damage. You apparently have got it down!. The one cut could have been anything from a momentary lapse in pressure of the blade to a rough spot on your face that got shaved off. Remember that the single edge razor exfoliates the skin of your face leaving you with that very smoothe feel. If last shave you caused an irritation that left a slight raised area.... you could have shaved it off this shave... after while... your skin is used to the shaving technique and all the rough spots have calmed down or been shaved.. All you can do is keep a sharp razor ready to go and use no pressure... Sounds like you are doing that.. congratulations! Keep up the good work and have lots of fun... Beard prep is also very important... I use a pre shave oil... after I shower.... then I strop my razor... make lather.. apply and then shave.... anything you can do to soften the beard works to give you a smoother shave...

Have a great day!

Maq

Roberto,

It sounds like you're progressing just fine. Keep it up.

BTW...When I decided to begin str8 razor shaving last December, my initial plan was to start shaving once a week, then once every other day, then finally to everyday. The experience became so much fun that I now use my collection of str8 razors everyday for a close, comfortable shave. Sure, it takes a little longer, but the shave is so much better.

Take care--and smooth shaving.

Congrats! :)

It just keeps getting better and better..!