Thread: First Shave A Disappointment

Originally Posted by Oaktownraid

Today was my first experience with the straight, and it was far from pleasurable. Bought a Dovo steel razor from Vintage blades and it arrived as specified above only difference was I didn't strop and I used Edge shave gel. My first shave sucked so bad an hour later I stropped and tried again. Im not backing off of the challenge. Im reassured by other posts it will get better. But in the mean time hopefully I don't scar.

I think that this was the main part of your problem, though I'm sure that lack of technique contributed as well. The "goo from a can" will never, and I mean never, lend anything to getting a comfortable shave, since it is mostly air. Shaving with a straight razor or double edged safety razor falls under the category of "wet shaving". What this means is that you need water for it to work effectively and comfortably.

I would suggest investing in either a decent quality brush and shave soap (you can find Van Der Hagen at Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, etc. pretty easily- it's not top notch, but is decent enough quality to get you started) to build your wet lather or you can get a tube of shave cream from places like The Body Shop (their Maca Root Shave Cream is pretty good) or Bath and Body Works (look for the C.O. Bigelow shave cream- it is rebranded Proraso cream from Italy). With the tube of cream, you can just use your fingertips to lather up with, though I still prefer a brush. The investment in these items should be minimal, and will definitely allow you to have a more comfortable shave because the water helps the blade glide easier across your skin as well as keeps your skin hydrated better during the shave.

As Lynn has already linked you to the best info you could read to get started, I'll just say in closing welcome and hang in there... your determination is inspiring and will aid you well during the learning curve of this sport.