Thread: Who needs lather?

Hello, I just shaved, lathered up stropped and decided to wipe the lather off and try with water only as Ive been tempted to do. Jnat edge, sharp as %^&*. No blood, no irritation, no weepers. I knew lather was overrated! A big YMMV! Ive always thought the lather holds the moisture on the face nothing more. I dont think a soap or cream can stop the irritation cuts or weepers caused by bad shaving technique. How much cushion can a soap or creme have if against a carbon or stainless steel blade anyway?

I think part of the advantage of lather is more of a lubricant for the blade against the skin. Water would provide some lubrication as well, but I don't think as slick as lather. I do some touchups with just water after I rinsed my face.

Many of us use a clear water final pass/touch up pass... gives the closest finish, at least for my face

Like I've always said, water is all you ever need for a shave. The trick is keeping it on cause it dries fast.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

Like I've always said, water is all you ever need for a shave. The trick is keeping it on cause it dries fast.

You, sir, are a shave master.

Thanks for the insight, but I'll keep my lather.

Originally Posted by gssixgun

Many of us use a clear water final pass/touch up pass... gives the closest finish, at least for my face

This sums up my thoughts also.

Originally Posted by Hirlau

Thanks for the insight, but I'll keep my lather.

Same here. But, I do find myself doing minor finishing touch ups with just water.

hmmm. That would make for way less shopping and less stuff in the bathroom and a shorter zen period. I also do a water touchup but like the journey as well. An interesting experiment though. Perhaps I may try it as well.

But the soaps and creams smell so good!

I think that if your technique is mastered, than just water should provide enough lubrication to go through flawlessly, which you have proven.

I think a soap or cream can hide some technique errors. But Im sure most of us have experienced nicks, weepers and irritation with soap and creams as well.

I think quality soaps and creams do provide other benefits, like moisturization.

So can you shave with just water? Obviously, because you did it! I am probably gonna try, as I think it could be a good measure of technique. But I think I will stick with my creams and soaps. If for nothing else, I like the scents!!!!