Thread: Getting ready for first shave.

Thanks to holli4pirating I've acquired my first straight razor, a Wade and Butcher Bow. The "Bow" part is particularly nice because one of the ancient translations of my Family name is Yew, Bow, or Warrior which adds significance to making this an heirloom.

It arrived shave ready so in theory I can get right to it, although I'm still awaiting the arrival of my badger brush. However I would like to use my shaving cream if possible, Noxzema's "Medicated" shave, which lists as its active ingredient Dimethicone 1%. Wikipedia's entry on Dimethicone describes it as a silicone oil and I was wondering if anyone knows what effect it has, if any, on straight razors? If the Noxzema is ok I'll just use it up while "learning the lather" beginning with Williams soap.

I am 1/8th Native American, 7/8's European so I have a fairly sparse beard. My 5 o'clock shadow begins the next day following a shave and only my mustache and chin areas grow out fully, or would, if I ever took the actual month or longer's worth of time to grow them out. So, it should be interesting figuring out what lather combinations will be best for my skin and beard.

Welcome aboard you are starting with a good razor well sharpened. I'm sorry but i am no help with the Noxzema question as I have never used the product. The only thing I can add is as long as you rinse it thoroughly i don't see how it can hurt the steel.