Thread: Time for a break from the SR?

Make sure your razor is nice and sharp. I only get irritation when I'm scraping my face with a dull razor.

One thing I would say is to not push yourself. 4-5 shaves is just beginning and you have all the time in the world to learn how to use the straight razor. Step back and enjoy the process taking it a little at a time and don't obsess over immediate perfection. The guys are giving you great advice here.

Happy New Year and Have fun.

Yes, if your face feels like it's on fire improper technique and/or a dull razor will usually be the culprits. But what soap or cream are you using to make your lather? It is possible that your skin is reacting to the lather as opposed to the razor. Have you used your soap/cream in the past with success?

If your razor is sharp, then you are using too much pressure. If your razor isn't sharp, then you have to use pressure to achieve anything at all, and that is a mistake. As for lather, I've shaved using hand soap I lathered and applied with my hands. It worked fine. You have to remember that you are new at this, and it just takes time to get proficient. Give it twenty no pressure shaves and then look back.

After my first shave my face was on fire as well. I though it was something that I had to get used to but it appears I am using too much pressure.

I know my blade is sharp because I purchased it from SRD.

I guess my interpretation of light is not light enough.

Thanks for making the post and keep at it!

I had the same problem starting out with serious razor burn. Try a nice steep angle, that is the razor almost flat against your face, and little pressure. Use less passes, for now don't even worry about a close shave.

Finish up with your favorite cartridge or DE edge. For now, concentrate on safety, technique and no irritation, not on a close shave. Good luck!

I'm new to this site, but have been sr shaving for several years. My test for shave ready sharp, while many would consider a little brutal, is to test it on my lower neck without ANY lather or water - completely dry. The point being, a really sharp blade will shave you dry, and lather is probably the least of your issues. No substitute for practice and once you have it down, you'll never go back. To me its a Zen thing.