Thread: First shave ever.

Weldor,

Welcome to SRP and congratulations on your first straight shaving attempt. You're smart to only try your sideburns at first.

A couple of pointers that may help:

First, think beard reduction, not beard elimination. Don't keep going over an area repeatedly in the same direction. Most guys find that several short strokes are better than a few long strokes. If you don't feel the stubble when you run your finger in the direction you've just shaved, you're done with that pass in that area. After that first successful WTG pass you'll still be able to see some stubble. You'll get the rest with XTG &/or ATG passes.

Secondly, don't keep increasing the angle. The spine should be about one spines-width off the face, no more.

Thirdly, NO pressure!!! Only bad things will happen if you force the blade. A very light grip is all you need. Obie uses the analogy of holding a bird: hold it tight enough so it won't get away but gentle enough so you won't hurt it.

Could you tell us a little more about your prep and lather?

Be patient. Improvement will come with time. FWIW, I find it much easier to shave with heavier bears growth, but every gent is different.