Thread: Washing your face before shaving?

I wash my face twice before shaving now. Didn't need to with cartridge razors or even a DE, but with a straight razor washing first makes things go a lot smoother for me.

I also shower first in the AM and wash my face there. I get a good shave after that without any drying out but then I have slightly oily skin so it proably doesn't matter for me.

I wash my face vigorously with hot water and soap before I shave 100% of the time. Usually in the shower but if I am shaving without the shower over the sink. It is much better to soften the whiskers up before you shave.

one word - always.

thanks for the valuable information. I will try washing beforehand again tonight

Always! If not, the razor scrubs along the skin with much friction. I use any kind of soap. Lather does not last if face is not oil-free. After rinsing, I wait about 10 minutes and then rinse again. I do not get razor burn if I do this. A good face patting seems to help restore oils. I actually enjoy shaving. It seems to give me a better outlook about life in general. Clean Shave=Fresh Start. Maybe. Robert

Outdoor Shaving Shelf at rainwater collection piping (with liquid Coast Soap this time):

Wow Timber59! I can't believe you shower outside. That's honestly so cool. I wish I lived in an area like you where I could get away with that without looking like a voyuer.

As for washing my face before shaving I tried once with exfoliating scrub but after shaving my whole face was RAW. It was a very dumb idea in retrospect. I haven't attempted it since but after reading this thread I think I'll wash my face with a mild soap before while in the shower.

Always wash my face. Either in the shower or by using a hot towel.

I always use a cleanser before I shave, with or without the shower.

I love showering outdoors. No neighbors' views here. One downside-the airport is not that far away. About the time I get lathered up, a small airplane or two comes over for landing approach to summer runway. I haven't been sighted yet. I always listen for them before disrobing. I have at times had to hurry with rinse and towel! I have enough cedar tree cover to hide amongst if careless. The fresh air and sunlight makes it all worthwhile. The gray water then goes to the plants and shrubs.

If you are in an urban area, build yourself an outdoor shower. Where I lived in New Braunfels, TX there were several garden area ones. They were constructed in a craftsman-like manner and did not look tacky. Some were of corrugated metal with liberal lattice work at the bottom and top. Some were even portable. Most used garden hoses for water supply. Just the ticket after a bout with the lawnmower or garden tools-a nice shower/shave plus dry change of clothes followed with a cold beverage!...or several.

Do use normal or mild soap and do not overly scrub. All it takes is something to clean away the skin oils and funk. Normally I shave post- shower inside or outside. Ain't this a lot of fun! Robert