Thread: First DE shave - I'll get a lot of flak for this

I know I may get some slack for this first shave but I was itching to try it. I ordered shaving cream, a brush, and some other items from BullGoose but couldn't wait any longer. Impatient. I figured it would be a great way to compare my shaves against the products I use.

Stuff: Nivea Moisturizing Face Wash in the shower (it tingles). Alloy Shave Gel (available only through club membership) and Alloy After-Shave, followed by Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue cologne.

Equipment: Gillette Super Speed 1966 with a Gillette 7 O'Clock blade.

My first pass went well but I noticed some small red blood spots under my chin. I didn't feel a thing. Very smooth shave. I was trying not to use any pressure since I am a Mach III user, but I caught myself sometimes pushing a little against my skin.

So far so good.

My second pass I got a little fancy and went against the grain. On my face it wasn't too bad. Under my chin was a challenge but I did it. More blood. But I don't really see any nicks. I think it is serious irritation. No big deal.

I rinsed off with cold water for a couple of minutes and then applied the Alloy After-Shave which always seems to cool off my face and skin and stop most of the bleeding. About 5 minutes later I ran my hand on my face and noticed areas that weren't very well shaved, i.e. not close.

I am going to experiment with this and my Merkur 38C and then compare to the more serious shave cream, brush, and mug way of shaving. I can only improve my shaving going forward.

I included a pic just viewing pleasure. I really enjoy some the many high quality photos on the "Shave of the Day" section on this site. Maybe I'll add mine, although I run the risk of a few good jokes!

No flak from me. Congratulations on a good start with improvement lying ahead.

There are plenty of DE guys in the SOTD forum, nice pic too BTW


I did have to edit the title on this one no harm no foul

Shave On !!!!

Paul, it sounds like a pretty typical first safety razor shave to me. You might consider going only with the grain for the first several shaves to get the hang of things first and to avoid unecessary irritation. Keep at it and take your time. Nice superspeed btw! I have a blue tip superspeed and it's one of my favorite shavers!

There are many good ways to shave. But the only shaving methods that will get you flak around here are electric face chewers and multi bladed cartridges. I think almost all straight razor users will admit to having the odd DE in their shaving rotation.

PaulCam,

I am very happy that you enjoyed the shave

I now include a safety razor shave into my weekly routine, mostly with vintage SE razors; I find the change most enjoyable !

Using a safety razor also gives us an excuse for even more RAD

Have fun !

Best regards

Russ

Originally Posted by PhatMan

PaulCam,

I am very happy that you enjoyed the shave

I now include a safety razor shave into my weekly routine, mostly with vintage SE razors; I find the change most enjoyable !

Using a safety razor also gives us an excuse for even more RAD

Have fun !

Best regards

Russ

Thanks Russ.

PaulCam,
I think once you start whipping up your lather with soap and a brush, you will start having some fun, and as a result, enjoy shaving even more.

Were you using a new blade, or one that just came in the razor? it sounds like your blade wasn't sharp. Try a brand new one next time. If you are still having trouble, try a different brand of blade.

Oh, and using shaving soap, as opposed to that junk in the can will give you a marked improvement.

I use a safety razor on occasion when I need to shave and have no time. I find it to be a nice shave but not at the quality of a good straight shave. There is a learning curve, but you can get a very nice shave.