Thread: How red?

I was shaving the other day (big surprise) and after I was done I really noticed how red my face was. It was very red over most of it, expecially in some small patches. I had no discomfort or pain, almost no burn afterwards too. It went away after about an hour or so.

How red does your face get? Is there a way to avoid this or is it just the way my skin is?

Does this only happen with a straight razor?

I didnt even think to mention that! It happens whenever i shave but more so with straights, maybe too much pressure...

Too much angle, pressure, poor honing, stropping (too much pressure), etc. , all the usual suspects could be at fault. You might also try a different soap or cream but its usually the blade itself.

Just on the outside, how hot is the water you are using? if i use very hot water (my house is set at 150F) my face turns red... so i add a bit of cold in and all is well.

Hi TJ,

I get a little red in the lower neck area and around the sides of my moustache line but it goes away after a half hour or so. I guess I just have very sensitive skin. Good prep with hot water and a slippery shave cream helps a lot, along with a good aftershave balm with no alcohol.

Ed

I would guess its due to either razor burn or irritation. Alan's already mentioned the likely culprits.

Thanks guys, i used less pressure today and it helped a bit. I do use really hot water too. I dont really mind the red so much, on a side note cella mixed with toms of main mint makes really good super lather! That might be a contributor to the less red today. Thanks

I wouldn't downplay the possibility that your skin may be sensitive to your soap. Try some different brands, or (as many soaps have many ingredients in common) try some different types or creams.

"how red" is so subjective. In the interests of precision, I suggest the following scale

1. No difference, my face is always that color
2. Looks like a pink carnation
3. Maybe I'm just blushing
4. Sunburn
5. I hire out my face as a color chart for fire engines.

I'm a 1.