Thread: Pre shave/ Post shave opinion

Hey guys, I'm new to the site and I would consider myself one step up from beginner with a straight razor. I started off with a Dovo best But find myself gravitating towards wedges. I have a pretty good Kb extra 11/16 and a Dubhl Duck Satin Wedge I like using. My question is, what's a good pre-and post-shave product to use on my skin? I have very sensitive skin and I was wondering what some of the members used. I would also like to state that I do use a very light touch and constantly stay lathered so I know I'm not butchering myself. I'm also trying out the Proaso brand right now.

Which Proraso, the green (menthol) or the white? I find the oat & tea pre-shave very affective. I have tried others, but I keep coming back to that one.

I've tried the green version of the soap and I just ordered the white stuff! I also am using the white after shave and I really like that. Does the white Proaso soap make a difference?

Do you mean the white pre-shave cream or the Proraso soaps? I use Proraso cream in tubes and have not tried the hard soaps so I don't have an opinion about them. I have read good things about them on various forums. The great thing about Proraso is that you always get good value for the money. Sadly, not always the case with other products.

As for the white pre-shave, I find it gives a bit more cushion than the green, but thats just my opinion. They are both excellent pre-shaves.

Good shaving.

Sorry, I should be more specific haha. I've used only the Green soap in a bowl version but I ordered the White soap in a bowl. A friend got me se of that Jack Black Supreme cream and its pretty good tube soap. So you say the Proaso tube is good? Ill give it a shot. I'm also using the white Proaso Aftershave lotion not the pre/post version.

Hi, Egon,

I was cursed with the worst combination: a Krupp-steel-tough beard and super-sensitive skin. So, preparation is key for me. My pre-shave routine consists of a hot shower, where I use hair conditioner also on my beard/face as well as my hair; followed by pre-shave oil (I use Art of Shaving, but in truth anything that will lubricate your skin, including edible olive-oil will do). And my lather has to be just so-and-so--I always use glycerin in it, to make sure it's thick, rich, moist and slippery.

The bottom line is this. Skin preparation consists of mainly three things: 1) making your beard softer; 2) creating a "shield" between the steel of the blade and your epidermis; and 3) making sure that your razor doesn't struggle along in jerky motions, but rather sweeps on in a smooth, gliding fashion. So, anything that will soften the hairs on your face (emollient/conditioner), prevent the razor from downright raking your naked skin (rich, moist lather) and lubricate your skin and beard so that the razor can glide effortlessly through the shaving process (oil) will greatly contribute to an easy and comfortable shave.

The brands you use are not as important as 1) how you use them--meaning, whether or not you maximize their potential (they all have idiosyncrasies, and to get the most out of each you need to get to know them) and 2) how well you understand how each product is designed to satisfy a particular need.

So, my advice is to experiment. Pick a set of reputable products, based on your preference for scent and method (e.g., soaps Vs. creams) and learn how to make the most out of them. Then, watch plenty of videos, and listen to your skin. Oh, and never skimp on water--that is one of the most "universal" tips I have learned in my few years of wet shaving (hence the term, I guess).

I used pre shave oil and got great results when I was starting out. Ease off the pressure and your shaves might also improve.

Egon,
I have used Castle Forbes pre-shave for years and recommend it. The product is water soluble and helps protect the skin quite well. I have a heavy beard and extremely sensitive skin. There is not much of a scent either in this product, so it will not interfere with your soap or cream scent. I also use the Castle Forbes aftershave balm. Nothing but good things to say about these two products.