Fine tuning w/ safety razor
Hi all!
Just to start off, I made the switch from the mach 3 cartridge razor to a safety razor for one reason only:
Sticking it to the man!
I got fed up with spending my life savings on those cartridge razors, and to top it off, they turned my face into ground zero for a razor burned, ingrown hair post apocalyptic war zone. I never really cared whether or not a safety razor would cause similar irritation, but as long as it was cheaper, the irritation couldn't be much worse. So I hope to not ever give them another dime for a crappy cartridge.
Because saving money was the main reason for the switch, I bought a cheap safety razor brand new, some soap, and a cheap brush. I bought feather blades. Even though they seemed more expensive than others, I read that they are the sharpest, plus the cost doesn't even compare to mach 3 replacements.
Although I still need some practice, it is getting easier every time. Surprisingly, I have only given myself a few small nicks. The only issue I'm having is the "fine tuning" around my goatee and sideburns. More importantly, My mustache grows really wide, so I always shave it a touch narrower on the top of it under my nose. Doing this has been a real challenge with a safety razor. It seems like the razor is too big, and I have to have the angle JUST RIGHT or it won't even shave. Plus, due to the size of the head, I have a hard time "seeing" where I'm shaving when I'm doing the outline around my goatee.
I wanted to use the safety razor for a year, then try my luck with a straight razor. They seem like, with practice, they would be the perfect thing for the intricate stuff.
I've read that maybe an open comb would be easier? I didn't do any real research before I bought the one I have. Also, are there razors that have a smaller head or a different shape that would made the job easier?
For all of you that have goatees, sideburns, etc. please chime in with what works for you. If it never gets easier, I still won't switch back to cartridges, but any info you can give would be appreciated!