Shave Review: 1912 Gem Bar SE + Gem Coated SS Blades + Taylor Rose Cream = Perfect
I wanted to share with everyone the best shave I've had in... perhaps ever. I must have found the overlapping sweet spots of several products that compound their quality when used together, at least on my devilishly tough beard.
I used my 1912 Gem Bar single-edge razor loaded with a fresh Gem stainless steel coated blade. After a hot shower during most of which I lathered up my face with lavender soap, I lightly oiled my skin with Art of Shaving scentless pre-shave oil. I soaked my super-badger brush (which I seldom use) in hot water, then used it to make lather directly on my face with the Taylor of Bond Street rose cream.
The lather was rich and cushiony, more so than most other creams I have ever used. Upon the first with-the-grain pass, the razor glided like it was on slick ice--a feathery 2-finger hold being more than necessary to mop up most of the whisker on my face. I then lathered up again, with the same luscious result. Against the grain on cheeks and neck, across the grain on chin and upper lip. Voila'.
Two relatively quick passes (5 min total), and my face was not only TRULY smooth, but also felt good as if I had just gotten out of a spa. A moderate splash of classic Pinaud, and life was truly good. As for even the remotest hint of burn or nicks, absolute zero.
So, first time I use this particular combination, a success on all fronts. Irony: this was, time-wise, probably one (if not THE) quickest wet-shaves I can remember. Only problem: I will find it hard not to be tempted into using the same products over and over, which takes the fun out of experimenting... :nj
Anyone else ever had such a happy epiphany? I'm curious to hear your stories.