Thread: Hello all, need some help.

I have the same problem as you. I've been shaving with straights for about 4 months now and I am only beginning to get it worked out. One problem that I was having is that as I worked my way under my jaw line my shaving angle was decreasing (meaning that the razor was laying down flatter so a "less aggressive" cut was being made). This was partially because I was a little uncomfortable shaving this part of my face and also because the curvature makes it a tricky place to shave. Try experimenting with different angles and directions. Make sure that as you curve the razor around underneath your jaw line you keep the shaving angle where you want it. Recently I've also discovered that a XTG stroke works well for me in a few tricky spots. I can say that after around 3 months of really bad shaves I am finally starting to notice it is getting easier. Don't get discouraged - Good luck!

It took me about 100 shaves before I would even consider raising the angle. It takes a certain amount of dexterity and practice to build up the confidence to do it, and that is as it should be. Getting pressure under control is what makes it possible.

It's going to take some time, period. I go, up and down on my neck. Most guys neck hair grows sideways, making bbs near impossible. You do the best you can. Watch your angle. The neck is notorious for irritation. Also, watch how much pressure you apply. The more comfortable you are with str8 shaving, the better your shaves get, so just be patient...Oh, I too have a Goatee.....

Have been straight razor shaving for three months now. I had the same problem until I got the DVD "World of Straight Razor Shaving" from Lynn. You can find it in the Classifieds on this forum. After watching it my shaving became much easier. I only do two passes now and my face is much smoother than any other method of shaving I have tried. I am still a newbie but I never resort to my DE razor anymore.