Help for a rookie

**StackNitup** · 09-15-2014, 12:47 AM

Hello Gents,

I am new to the wet shaving game; about a month in. While I am loving it, I am having some struggles with irritation under my chin/middle of throat and sometimes on my jaw line. I am currently using a double edge razor and always am using a new blade. Waiting on my straight to be delivered. I bought a sample pack of 200 blades so I have a lot. I feel that it maybe due to me getting a closer shave, but not sure. I have only been having this for about a week. I am using the same soap and after shave, and I feel that I am taking my time, re-lathering, etc.

So long story short I am wondering if a pre-shave oil may help and possibly a different aftershave. I currently do not use a pre-shave oil, and the only after shave that I use is various Clubman scents.

Any suggestions?

**Hirlau** · 09-15-2014, 12:55 AM

Pay attention to the pressure you are applying,,, the pressure I use on the sides of my face is a little more than I use on my neck & chin. Try some witch hazel, right after your shave,,, see if that helps with the irritation.

**BeJay** · 09-16-2014, 08:28 AM

Two big things to consider if you're getting razor burn are pressure and angle. You want to use very little pressure. Let the weight of the razor do the cutting. Another thing that gets beginners is using an overly aggressive blade angle. Don't aim for a really close shave. Try to get a really comfortable shave and the shaves over time.

**Substance** · 09-16-2014, 08:34 AM

Never used any oils etc
Angles & pressure are your true problems here I think also
When I started I used the alum block after every shave ( and felt it ) to help with burn while learning, after a while as you get your technique sorted you will find it isn't realy required, as the burn gone, it took a few months before I got it down pat
Keep it up it is a big learning curve to get through

**HaiKarate** · 09-16-2014, 08:38 AM

Watch the angles...that fresh honed razor should squeegee it of..simple as that. Like BeJay said...pressure.. Just let the steel flow around your face. It is that simple..heres a vid for motivation..

Rasiermesser Rasur - YouTube

**mglindo** · 09-16-2014, 04:23 PM

I agree to all the above. I believe that too much pressure is your main problem here. I too agree with Hirlau, apply witch hazel after a cool water rinse. It is inexpensive at the drug store, about $3.00.

Mike

**Obie** · 09-16-2014, 04:44 PM

StackNitup,

Welcome to Straight Razor Place. You will need time to hone your skill with the straight razor. Your specific technique will develop from that. Here are some points to remember:

1. Keep your razor angle about 20 to 30 degrees. Those are general numbers and the angles may vary in different parts of the face.

2. Don't squeeze the razor too hard in your hands. Think of the razor as bird: that if you squeeze it too hard, it will die, and too loose, it will fly away. Also, this medium grip will help you maneuver the blade better.

3. Keep your pressure low by using the razor's weight only.

4. Don't force the razor, because it is sassy and will bite you.

5. Keep your strokes short. Also, use care in placing the blade on your face. Many cuts happen when we lose concentration and place the blade hard on the skin.

6. The neck, because the beard frequently grows in all kinds of directions, is a problem for a lot of us. It is for me even after all these years. I can get a perfect shave on my neck with probably five or six passes, but by then my skin is fried. I, therefore, go for comfortable rather than perfect and do the best I can.

7. Pre-shave might help you. I don't much care for pre-shave oils; rather, my choice of a pre-shave is Castle Forbes, a wee bit pricey, yes, but worth it.

In the meantime, here are more appropriate videos for newbies. Although Willie's video is entertaining, I don't feel it appropriate for newbies.

Straight Razor Shaving for Beginners - YouTube

**onimaru55** · 09-16-2014, 11:40 PM

Originally Posted by HaiKarate

His under the nose looks to be 90 degrees. Whatever works.

Looks near flat to me . In fact the first under nose stroke is a scooping action. Camera angles can obfuscate razor angles but I agree with Obie. Willie's video is not a beginner's tutorial.

**Razorfeld** · 09-16-2014, 11:54 PM

Obie hit on the nail head as far as I'm concerned. The only dissention I have is pre shave material. Being of the "wish I had more money" category I've found inexpensive solutions to many shaving problems. My pre shave routine starts in the shower. At the end of my shower I rub a very small amount of hair conditioner on my face ans not rinse it off. Just before I lather I cold wet my face and rub a small amount of Cremo or Kiss My Face into my beard and then lather over it. Adds a little more cushion and glide and helps keep irritation down on my sensitive face.

**lostinhk** · 09-17-2014, 01:13 PM

i use preshave oil for straight shaving. never for de shaving.

i only use the oil because it is free and don't want to waste storage space for it. there is no benefit from it that i have experienced. i would not buy oil. i only use it on straights because it is a pain in the neck to clean off of de blades. for straights, i strop on a towel between strokes so it doesn't matter.

like what others have said, just work on your angles and pressure. oil will not help.

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