A Beginner Hoping for a Reality Check!

Hey guys, my name is Don and I am 52 years old. I learned to shave with a cartridge razor and canned cream in high school, but switched to an electric razor about 25 years ago. My college aged son got me back into wet shaving about a month ago, and I'm really enjoying myself.

I started with a Mach 3 and canned cream, but quickly moved on to a brush and DE razor. After a few misstarts, I now get a close, comfortable shave doing 2 DE passes WTG.

I bought a straight razor from SRD and gave it a try 2 weekends ago. I've shaved a total of 6 times so far (when I have at least 30 minutes to devote), and it's pretty rough going. I'm taking my time to strop the razor, and I think that my prep is fine (hot wash, hot towel, Geo Trumper Skin Food, followed by Taylor of Old Bond Street cream applied by badger brush). I usually do 2 passes WTG, but today I got home from work early and tried 1 pass WTG. I've yet to do a shave without multiple nicks and cuts.

So, is this normal when learning? My right (dominant) side is a little better than my left, where I sometimes cut myself just resting the blade against my skin, but I've still got cuts along my right jaw and chin. My wife was joking at dinner that I look like a boxer now with all of my cuts!

I'm happy to persevere if this is normal, but I'm starting to wonder if I shouldn't just stick with the DE and acknowledge that I would have grown a beard in the 19th Century.

Thanks in advance for any feedback.

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Originally Posted by DCB2

just resting the blade against my skin

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Hello Don, I am no expert, just a newbie enjoying myself, so wait for the experts to wade in, but the person talking me through my first few shaves was keen on telling me all about "a moving blade on tight skin"
It's easy to rest the blade then let it drift sideways a bit giving you a nice linear mark. So perhaps play around with manipulating the skin a little bit to get a nice tight runway for the blade? If it helps, I got a sloppy stroke cut on my chin this morning.

What type of razor are you using? Is it a square point? Those are more prone to nicks than round points. Where on your face are you getting cut? Could be many things, from the razor to technique.

Thanks for the response. It's a Ralf Aust 5/8 that I bought from SRD. I'm getting cut all over, but mainly the left side of my face, my upper lip, and my chin. I'm sure it's a technique issue, not the razor.

are the cuts from the edge or toe of the razor? Angle is critical as well as never moving the blade edge parallel to your face. I got a few nicks starting out, but now I only get cut when I have a momentary lack of attention. One other cut, I was going wtg too fast with too much pressure, and a loose area of skin folded in front of the edge.

If there is one single thing about this age old art of shaving with a straight razor it would be ‘Patience’!

It takes time, not so long for some and longer for others.

Back ‘in the day’ when a boy started to need to shave he had a father an uncle or perhaps a neighbor who would guide him! His beard was soft and sparse, yours is old and tough!

I started when I was 56, I’m now 60 and every once in awhile I’ll get a nick, but the ‘cuts’ are long gone (knock on wood).

Take your time and just stick to the cheek area. If your having problems with using your non-dominate hand stick to your dominate hand for both sides/I do and it works well for me! It just takes some imagination to make it happen and happen well!

Hang in there! IT WILL GET BETTER!! :tu

I would avoid "resting the razor" against your skin. Keep the blade moving as you move it toward your skin. Do that with the spine contacting the skin first and then gradually rotate the edge toward your skin as you begin your stroke. Remember that you are learning at this stage and cut avoidance is primary. Experience will improve your results, but don't expect that experience to come quickly. I think it took me about a month to get comfortable with straight shaving and months after that to become competent at it. That sounds like a lot of effort. Are the results eventually worth it? I think they are, but at this stage, patience is the most important attitude to have. You'll eventually be able to get a good shave within ten minutes with a straight razor, but don't expect that of yourself at this point. Your experience at this point sounds typical. I never "rest the razor" against my skin. Razors don't "rest", they cut.

I cut myself pretty much every time I shaved for the first two weeks. Skin stretching and pressure were my problem, and once I realized it my shaves improved dramatically. Hang in there, it will get better with practice.

It's not normal. 1) Try watching some shaving videos. 2) Try moving a pin off the edge of the razor and see if there any spots where the pin sticks. Make sure there isn't a spot on the blade that's screwed up. 3) only shave the cheeks until you figure out what's wrong

I would say that you are trying too much too soon. Go slow. Just do what you can with your dominant hand first, then expand until you master one side without cutting yourself. Then switch hands and begin training your off hand. Yes, it's best to use both hands. Start slow with the off hand and then expand. Once you get the skill and coordination, you should be rarely cutting yourself. I actually cut myself more with a DE than a straight.

It will be worth the effort because once you get it, it's a lot of fun!

Hey there- welcome to SRP! Hang in there it gets better. I used to cut myself all of the time and I jumped well into the deep end of the pool starting- not smart but I shaved my whole face the first time I shaved and never stopped from there on. Now I've been shaving for a bit less than a year and rarely if ever cut myself. I do get some weepers here and there but thats about all. Most of all take your time and study the library here. There is lots of valuable information in the wiki. As well do whats comfortable for you. I, like cudarunner only shave with one hand. I do not subscribe to the common notion that two hands are better than one- why make yourself uncomfortable if you do not have to? Use whatever method is comfortable for you! Lastly, just have fun! Thats what this is all about after all- relaxing and enjoying the experience!

Thanks very much for the support and the great advice guys! I'm particularly happy to hear that I'm not too old to start shaving with a straight razor, and that it's "OK" to stay with one hand. I'm going to focus more on stretching the skin and making contact with the spine, first. Thanks again, and I'll report back on my progress!

Ditto Mr Davis above, and I will add to the things to think about. Firstly; A light touch, think about it as just wiping the lather off your face with the razor. Second; Don't have a death grip on the razor. Firm enough to not drop the razor, but soft enough that if the edge catches on your face, you don't drag it over in a power through stroke. And finally: good moist (not watery) lather. Dry lather will feel sticky or cause razor 'chatter', Watery lather won't offer the 'cushion' you're after for the razor.


Mick

Welcome, its early days so don't panic, but do put some effort into working out what is wrong, I used to get cuts from the part of the edge I wasn't actively shaving with, ie I would be using the heel, but not really watching what the toe was doing. and as mick said dry lather will give you grief, I got 2 cuts today for that very reason.

Success! (Sort of.). I gave my face a break on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, limiting my shaves to a single pass with my DE razor WTG. I also watched still more shaving videos and read additional tutorials online. I had a little extra time this morning before I had to leave the house, so I decided to try the straight razor again. Today, however, my goal wasn't to get a clean shave - it was to gently skim the lather off of my face without getting cut. I took my time and was very careful, and everything worked out. There is a lot of difference between my right and left hands, and that clearly is going to take some time to sort out. The shave was passable, too, but I have a business meeting later this morning so I did another pass with my DE razor to clean things up. Thanks again to all for the encouragement and the tips!

Glad it's going well, and you are seeing improvements.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by John Quincy Adams

Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.

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Wise words from a wise man. Hang in there, you'll get it. :)

Happy birthday crouton, was it a good one?

Well, it's just getting started (it's only 9:41 a.m. here) and I'm at work, but we'll see how things go tonight at dinner! :)

Thanks, Ed! :):)

Happy B'day mate. Enjoy yourself...Or have the wife enjoy you, or something equally as pleasurable...:)


Mick

Thanks, Mick! :)

Again, I really want to thank everyone who took the time to respond to my first post and to offer suggestions. I was pretty frustrated when I made the post, after several bad initial shaves. Today I did a double pass shave with the straight razor, WTG on both passes, and I was very pleased with the results. I'm still "iffy" with my left hand and on my chin, but the results were acceptable and I didn't have to clean up with the DE razor. And again no cuts! I'm really taking my time and concentrating, and I'm using the suggestions that people made in their posts. It takes a long time (30 - 35 minutes from the time I start until I finish), so I don't see myself using a straight every day, but at least now I can envision a future time when I'll be reasonably proficient (and safe). Thanks again to all.

One little trick that helped me, and still does, when putting the razor to your face is to do so pulling the edge in a backward motion (same as when you strop) as it touches your face so that the edge can't engage until you begin moving it forward. It helps when you are having trouble seeing clearly in the mirror.

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Originally Posted by DCB2

Again, I really want to thank everyone who took the time to respond to my first post and to offer suggestions. I was pretty frustrated when I made the post, after several bad initial shaves. Today I did a double pass shave with the straight razor, WTG on both passes, and I was very pleased with the results. I'm still "iffy" with my left hand and on my chin, but the results were acceptable and I didn't have to clean up with the DE razor. And again no cuts! I'm really taking my time and concentrating, and I'm using the suggestions that people made in their posts. It takes a long time (30 - 35 minutes from the time I start until I finish), so I don't see myself using a straight every day, but at least now I can envision a future time when I'll be reasonably proficient (and safe). Thanks again to all.

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No worries. Not to depress you.but I take at least as long as you, but I do usually get good, mostly very smooth shaves. Keep at it. At some point you will have a really nice, really quite smooth shave and you will think wow that was actually worth all if the effort. :)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by DCB2

Again, I really want to thank everyone who took the time to respond to my first post and to offer suggestions. I was pretty frustrated when I made the post, after several bad initial shaves. Today I did a double pass shave with the straight razor, WTG on both passes, and I was very pleased with the results. I'm still "iffy" with my left hand and on my chin, but the results were acceptable and I didn't have to clean up with the DE razor. And again no cuts! I'm really taking my time and concentrating, and I'm using the suggestions that people made in their posts. It takes a long time (30 - 35 minutes from the time I start until I finish), so I don't see myself using a straight every day, but at least now I can envision a future time when I'll be reasonably proficient (and safe). Thanks again to all.

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Great to see things are getting better!

I've been shaving with a straight for about five years now and *still* don't use my left hand much at all. In fact, when I do it's only because I think "I should really get used to using my left hand...". So while I'd encourage everyone who starts out to at least try using both hands, don't worry about it if it takes time for your left hand to keep pace with your right. We all know how tricky it can be to get the hang of this stuff with the dominant hand, so add in the challenge of using your other hand and it's bound to take extra time and practice. That having been said - don't give up on your left. I now wish I had taught myself how to use both when I started, so it will be worth it in the long run.

And as most will agree: chins are very tricky! So just as with using your other hand, it will take time. But hang in there, and it will get not only better, but faster.

EDIT: forgot to say: for now at least, try not to worry about the time this takes. If you can, shave at a time when you simply don't have to rush. I like shaving at night so I can just relax and never worry about rushing. While my shaves are much quicker these days, eliminating the need to rush when I was starting out was a big help. And with time, it became a very relaxing, almost zen-like ritual that now sends me off to dreamland nicely. :)

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Originally Posted by Cangooner

Great to see things are getting better!

I've been shaving with a straight for about five years now and *still* don't use my left hand much at all. In fact, when I do it's only because I think "I should really get used to using my left hand...". So while I'd encourage everyone who starts out to at least try using both hands, don't worry about it if it takes time for your left hand to keep pace with your right. We all know how tricky it can be to get the hang of this stuff with the dominant hand, so add in the challenge of using your other hand and it's bound to take extra time and practice. That having been said - don't give up on your left. I now wish I had taught myself how to use both when I started, so it will be worth it in the long run.

And as most will agree: chins are very tricky! So just as with using your other hand, it will take time. But hang in there, and it will get not only better, but faster.

EDIT: forgot to say: for now at least, try not to worry about the time this takes. If you can, shave at a time when you simply don't have to rush. I like shaving at night so I can just relax and never worry about rushing. While my shaves are much quicker these days, eliminating the need to rush when I was starting out was a big help. And with time, it became a very relaxing, almost zen-like ritual that now sends me off to dreamland nicely. :)

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Apart from the 5 years, and the fact that I am a lefty, I could have written that. Good advice.

Thanks again all. I shaved with the straight again today (2 passes WTG) and again got a passable shave with no cuts. I'm really trying to take my time and go light, and that is making a big difference. I'm also getting into a routine on "how to order" my strokes. It's a lot different than the "one side, then the other, and then the goatee" that I use with a DE razor, but it seems to be working and I no longer feel like I'm experimenting with every stroke. Thanks again for the tips and the encouragement.

DCB2,
It's great that you are getting "passable shave with no cuts" now.
Like you, I was considering not SR shaving everyday because of the time it took, but I decided to just start my morning routine earlier. As a result, I've cut my time by 1/3 to 1/2 (depending on number of passes). I've posted before the mantra from Jump Master School: Slow is Smooth, Smooth is Fast. It takes time to 'unlearn' the lessons and muscle memory stored up from decades of electric razors and multi-blade plastics. Enjoy the learning process and make it a priority.
Best of luck for continued and increased success.

Thanks Colonel G and everyone else for the tips and the encouragement. I've been shaving with the straight every day for 1 1/2 weeks, and my shaves are getting much better. I get up a little early and take my time, and it's starting to pay off. I'm still having some difficulties with pressure, angle, and consistency, but the shaves are getting better, I enjoy the meditative aspects of the shave, and I'm having a lot of fun. Thanks again to all.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Cangooner

Great to see things are getting better!

I've been shaving with a straight for about five years now and *still* don't use my left hand much at all. In fact, when I do it's only because I think "I should really get used to using my left hand...". So while I'd encourage everyone who starts out to at least try using both hands, don't worry about it if it takes time for your left hand to keep pace with your right. We all know how tricky it can be to get the hang of this stuff with the dominant hand, so add in the challenge of using your other hand and it's bound to take extra time and practice. That having been said - don't give up on your left. I now wish I had taught myself how to use both when I started, so it will be worth it in the long run.

And as most will agree: chins are very tricky! So just as with using your other hand, it will take time. But hang in there, and it will get not only better, but faster.

EDIT: forgot to say: for now at least, try not to worry about the time this takes. If you can, shave at a time when you simply don't have to rush. I like shaving at night so I can just relax and never worry about rushing. While my shaves are much quicker these days, eliminating the need to rush when I was starting out was a big help. And with time, it became a very relaxing, almost zen-like ritual that now sends me off to dreamland nicely. :)

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+1 on this post. I like you started out using both hands -- and nicking myself. Until I asked around and found out that sticking with a dominant hand works just as well.

Using only your dominant hand is fine if your beard grows up and down. But sooner or later you may find yourself posting about how you cant seem to get your neck BBS and its really bothering you. Everyone's beard pattern is different but most will find that there are certain ATG cuts that can only be accomplished by using the other hand. It takes a little time to get used to but you'll find it worth it shortly thereafter.

I've been switching hands, and it's slowly working for me. I have to pay even more attention with my left hand and it doesn't feel as "natural," but I'm no longer holding my breath and shaking my hand (LOL) and in some areas the shave actually is better than on the right side of my face. So, for now at least, I'm a convert to the "switching hands" method.

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Originally Posted by OCDshaver

Using only your dominant hand is fine if your beard grows up and down. But sooner or later you may find yourself posting about how you cant seem to get your neck BBS and its really bothering you. Everyone's beard pattern is different but most will find that there are certain ATG cuts that can only be accomplished by using the other hand. It takes a little time to get used to but you'll find it worth it shortly thereafter.

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Couldn't agree more. Just think there are many levels of skill here. No need to try the harder techniques when you are first learning to shave with a straight razor.

Ugh. Preoccupied and rushing this morning, and I nicked myself 3 times. Tomorrow it's back to "slow is smooth, and smooth is safe"!

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Originally Posted by DCB2

Ugh. Preoccupied and rushing this morning, and I nicked myself 3 times. Tomorrow it's back to "slow is smooth, and smooth is safe"!

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Oh well at least it's the weekend.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by DCB2

Thanks very much for the support and the great advice guys! I'm particularly happy to hear that I'm not too old to start shaving with a straight razor

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You are never to old. I started just a few months ago and I'm 80 (second childhood and all that). You've bee given a lot of advice to sift through, let me add one more. I have a pressure problem, too much pressure. At least till some one suggested the following: When starting shaving, calm the mind and concentrate on a shallow angle for the razor and image shaving only the lather (stretch skin where possible). You will be amazed at the results! For me, a ton less irritation and a closer shave. Like I say, " My two cents, take it or leave it."

I agree with Razorfeld, you are never too old to start! I started a couple of months ago and I am 71. ( Courtesy of my son recommending it to me )
Found it very difficult at first as I have a very strong wiry beard, but with good prep and a carefully gentle touch I am getting there. Just keep persevering!

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Originally Posted by luckypip

I agree with Razorfeld, you are never too old to start! I started a couple of months ago and I am 71. ( Courtesy of my son recommending it to me )
Found it very difficult at first as I have a very strong wiry beard, but with good prep and a carefully gentle touch I am getting there. Just keep persevering!

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Thank you luckypip, nice to know there are other "youngsters" out there. Maybe we need to start a new thread for 70 and older and penalize any upstart under 70 that posts on it with a year of dull razors as retaliation.

Razorfeld and Luckypip, that's fantastic! And thanks for the great advice!