Thread: First shave impressions

That sounds about right...lol. Hang in there though and really focus on your technique and it'll get better. Maybe get your razor properly honed as well to alleviate that part of the equation.

Originally Posted by jbtusa

Razor burn comes from a dull razor. Dull razors cause one to use pressure and the pressure is what causes the razor burn.

I agree, but the use of pressure with any razor, sharp or dull, will cause razor burn.

I'm guessing the OP, frustrated by the lack of whisker removal, tried to compensate with the use of pressure which resulted in the redness and irritation. A shave ready blade and good stropping will alleviate this to a high degree, but backing the pressure off to zero will go a long way towards a great irritation-free shave.

Originally Posted by Ryan82

I agree, but the use of pressure with any razor, sharp or dull, will cause razor burn.

I'm guessing the OP, frustrated by the lack of whisker removal, tried to compensate with the use of pressure which resulted in the redness and irritation. A shave ready blade and good stropping will alleviate this to a high degree, but backing the pressure off to zero will go a long way towards a great irritation-free shave.

this is where i am. blade is new and ready. ive stropped and it looks clean and smooth, no knicks or anything. i press harder b/c i still see stubble, and then it burns.
at least I only cut myself the first two times; but then again, im only 4 shaves deep. lol

Originally Posted by leo95se

this is where i am. blade is new and ready. ive stropped and it looks clean and smooth, no knicks or anything. i press harder b/c i still see stubble, and then it burns.
at least I only cut myself the first two times; but then again, im only 4 shaves deep. lol

Less than stellar shaves when you're only four in is very normal. I know it's tempting to use more pressure, but it's still best to use none and clean up with your usual razor (DE, disposable etc) than to have razor burn. Eventually it will all come together

Shaving only diminishes the beard all the pressure in the world will not remove it. each pass of your shave should cut a little more of your beard. on my first pass there is always stubble, the cross grain and against the grain passes finish it off. part of this is because the hair grows in all sorts of directions and the various passes cover most of them. proper stretching of the face helps too. shaving is a process to be enjoyed, lighten up.

I've had some pretty brutal shaves since I've started but whatever you do, DO NOT GIVE UP! Read and take in all the great info that has been posted in response so far and don't rush it and don't force it. Like someone said if you have to stop and finish with your regular razor don't let that bother you. I found my blade angle was horrible and after I adjusted it my shaves got better. I also found my shaves got better after either adding glycerin to the lather or using a preshave oil. There are a lot of variables to consider when shaving so make sure your basics are good first like blade angle, blade sharpness, stropping technique, etc. Spend some time looking around this website at other posts and information b/c it is a wealth of knowledge. Most of all don't give up. Good luck.

Now that you have that first one behind you, you have an idea of where you want to be ! PATIENCE in all things.........and don't give up ! Nothing of value was ever earned unless it came from good old hard work and the diligence to perservere. You will get there, ENJOY the ride !