Hello from the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.
Hello All,
I am a British chap who emigrated to Australia in 2011. I have been shaving with a DE for several years but recently decided to learn how to use a straight.
About 6 months ago I started shaving with a Parker Shavette, and after many nicks and cuts I started to get some pretty good shaves. I was getting pretty good at skin stretching and learning my way around. However the shave was always aggressive and left me knowing I had had a very close shave.
After reading more on this great forum and one other, I bought my first straight razor from Larry at Whipped Dog. I have been using it for a couple of months now and I must say it is much easier it is to use, however my shaves are more hit and miss for some reason. I have been keeping the straight edge (when it starts to pull) by giving the razor 5-6 passes on a 12K barbers hone and then 60 or so on a leather strop and that seems to work, so far.
I have discovered due to the heat here in Queensland that I get less irritation if I cold water shave at night, after a cool shower. My skin is less irritated. However in the UK with a DE razor my skin prefered hot water shaving and that was definitely the go in the colder climate. I also find that face lathering seems to work better with cold water for me.
My favourite soaps so far are Palmolive shaving stick, Arko stick, and for a late bedtime shave TOBS lavender cream seems very relaxing. Proraso original is great if I have to morning shave. I'm not a fan of pre shaves as I can't see their worth?
At the moment I know i can get a closer shave with my DE but I am fascinated with the straight. I have almost given up a couple of times but I'm a stubborn mule and love the "feel" of the straight from a skin and an aesthetic point of view. Im chasing a perfect edge and a BBS shave.
I really want to learn to maintain and hone my razor, and that will be my next challenge. I'm hoping to find someone to give me a few lessons if possible.
I already have noticed that a shaving obsession has started! I seem to be buying everything I can get my hands on to try!
What a glorious hobby this is :)