Learning with a beard?

Hi everyone,

I'm just getting into straights, ordered my first razor from the classifieds yesterday, and first, I wanted to thank everyone for the amazing information here.

I have a beard (nearly impossible to keep it even with cartridges, and don't get me started on them clogging), and I was wondering if anyone had any tips or adaptations to Lynn's recommendations for the first few shaves to help me keep the beard intact while I'm learning? Or should I sacrifice it until I'm comfortable using the straight?

Thanks very much!
Greg

Welcome to SRP Greg. I used to keep a mustache and it is just a matter of careful trimming around the perimeter. See my sig below for avoiding nicks and cuts and stretch that skin and pay attention to blade angle and light pressure. :gl:

We used to have a member with quite a collection of razors and who considered him self quite the expert in beard preparation and he only shaved his neck line below a full beard. I would say just to try one side of the neck line at first going down until you develop a good cutting stroke and then move across the entire neck line as you feel comfortable. Side stretching and coming back up to the beard line should also be done as you improve your skills. You can also experiment with cutting down the cheek areas if you sculpt your beard.

Have fun,

Lynn

I started with a full beard and shaving the neck under the jaw line. Curiosity got the best of me and I shaved it all. I'm starting to let it grow back now but this time, I think I'm just going to keep a chin curtain.

Thanks for the tips. I do sculpt the beard, so I'll try the cheek first, and maybe a swipe or two at the neck line. It's going to be hard to resist trying the whole thing at once, but I know good advice when I see it, so I'll do my best to resist the urge.

@AnarchoPhil - I think curiosity will end up getting the best of me too.