Quote Originally Posted by tim85a View Post
Hi Guys,

I got my first razor last week and have had a few shaves with it now and am slowly learning.

I was talking to someone at work the other day and he said he remembers reading somewhere that you should use cold water to rinse the razor and warm water to prep your face. Is this right?

Thanks for the help.
Tim
It's possible he read it from this book, pp. 50-52. https://archive.org/details/shavingmadeeasyw0020th. This book is in the public domain and you can either read it onsite or download a copy for yourself. It explains that there is less irritation because the whisker is more brittle when cold. We're talking about tap water, not adding ice cubes if it is not ice cold. Warm whiskers are limp and you can irritate your face trying to shave them.

When I first heard of the idea I thought it was nuts. But I tried it and to my surprise it worked wonderfully well. Still I thought it was a silly idea and went back to hot water. Then about a year later I switched to cold water permanently because it's easier, and more convenient. I used to microwave water, then I had an electric kettle for a while, and I would use a scuttle to keep the lather warm. With cold water I was able to clear the sink area and all I need is a mug.

To be honest with you, I can't tell a difference in results with either hot water or cold water. And, I live in a semitropical climate, so it's no sacrifice of comfort for me.

My barber was taught to shave hot for the very reason the book says to shave cold because limp hairs are desirable.

I'd say the rule of thumb is to do what you want, and if you experience irritation with hot water, try cold water, or vice-versa.