just started SR shaving

Just got in my Dovo Bismarck straight edge, Fromm strop, ColConk soap, and pure Badger Brush, and I'm loving it! I have been thinking about straight razor shaving for a while because I have REALLY sensitive skin that would turn into road rash with any new razor on the market. I heard about SR shaving and how it shaves close without irritation and shaving below the skin if done properly.

I jumped right into a full face shave 2 days ago and the 'shave ready' blade wasn't as sharp as it should have been. No cuts, but a pretty bad shave haha!

after I worked on my stropping technique and was more confident i wouldn't destroy my blade, I stropped and now the WTG shave was a dream, no razor burn, no ingrown hairs, no bumps. One of the first time in like 3 years.

3rd days shave was WTG, and ATG. And I am noticing my hand positions suck. I'm searching more effective positions now, other than mine.

Quick and stupid question: you can use both sides of the razor while you shave? or just one effectively.

Thanks guys

Welcome. As long as its honed and stropped correctly both sides should work effeciently.

+1 on AFDavis11's post...You should be able to use both sides of the razor to shave with and experience no problems--if the razor is honed and stropped correctly.

I use both sidea everyday to shave both sides of my face and neck, although I must admit that the first time a placed my straight razor in my left hand (I'm right-handed) I was terrified.

Just keep at it and understand that some of what you do isn't "standardized", you'll find hand positions that work for you, strokes that work for you, a whole routine that works for you. The beauty of it is that none of it has to be perfect. It's "shaving", not rocket surgery. Go slow and try to relax and enjoy.

There are some good videos of shaving technique around here somewhere as well as on youtube, either side of the razor should be as good as the other. Welcome to SRP and congrats on the shaves!