Thread: bloodletting

So I've been shaving almost every day with a straight since early March, and I've seem to have gotten down stropping my razor and even a light honing on my Norton. My shaves, though; leave something to be desired. I think that I'm either going to fast or just not concentrating enough on what I'm doing. Anyway, I'm nicking myself up alot and experiencing some rash and razor burn quite often too. My other concern is a small mole or mark on my off hand cheek that I seem to nick each time I shave. Could this cause problems or affect that mole in some way? Don't get me wrong, my shaves and technique have improved, but I'm bleeding from somewhere every time I shave. Help!

what time of razor do you have?
just slow down every shave and you'll get to know the curves of your face. you'll get it after slowing it down and getting it down.

Lighten up dude! Well, I reckon that pressure is your main problem. As for that mole, it's a good idea not to nick them. On saying that I have one I shave over every day without incident.


Mick

I started straight razor shaving around the same time so I don't bring heaps of experience to the table but IMHO the point which the razor first contacts my face is the point at which I am more likely to cut myself rather than the shaving stroke. So maybe go easy at the start, and as MickR says lighter pressure. I also have a small mole that I used to nick and pressure was my problem in that case, all good now though.

Thank you, everyone. I'm mostly using a Wade and Butcher razor with a square point. I'll make a conscious effort to slow down and lighten the pressure on my face. BTW, MickR; I've got to remember your saying above your avatar the next time I have to give a toast, hilarious!

Get yourself a alum block and stretch that skin.

Did anyone mention lighter pressure, as in none?

Cut it off, no mo' problems. I think you know how at this point.

Vitamin K. Get it in pill form if you don't eat the veggies.

YWIA

Originally Posted by gadwaymc

My other concern is a small mole or mark on my off hand cheek that I seem to nick each time I shave. Could this cause problems or affect that mole in some way?

I'm not a doctor and all moles are different, so talk to your doctor before anything else.
With that said; I have a mole on my head and my doctor told me that I did "a fine job of cutting it off" and if it came back to come see him and he'll cut it off. Mind you, I never intended to cut it off and I tried to avoid cutting it at all, but once I nicked it and started bleeding I said screw it and just kept cutting it off in layers. It grew back, but I never went to the doctor to have it removed. I actually have cut it off two different times, both started by nicking it.

Anyway, you should always talk to your doctor about your moles and have them examined. I have a fair amount of moles and have them checked annually when I go for my check ups. If you want the mole removed, ask your doctor, he/she will usually take them off for you. Moles grow back because they have some type of root system that needs to be cut out.

FWIW, it wasn't painful to cut it off. It felt more weird than anything else, it's more of an annoying pain.

If your razor's properly sharp, it shouldn't take any more pressure to shave the hairs than it does to scrape away the lather. Try lathering up and scraping it off with a butter knife or something, just to get an idea of the pressure required. If you need more pressure than that, it may be time to hone.

Good luck and best wishes.