Chin work

Now, I'm still learning the ropes re: straight shaving, but although I can manage to shave pretty much everywhere (well, apart from my sideburns which are pretty long), I can't seem to manage the patch south of the soul-patch area and where the neck meets the chin. Right on the underside of the face there. Is there a trick I'm missing or is it just a matter of trial and error? I don't want to run cap in hand to my Gillette Fusion every time I can't manage to do this bit properly.

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The chin is a unique area with all of its contours, and is probably the hardest area to learn. Short strokes are best, remembering to change the angle as you move to the contours. There are no magical moves because what works for one person may not work for another. I'd wait for the weekend or day off before concentrating on it. That way you won't be under any time constraints. :gl:

I'm guessing you're having problems with the blade angle as you go over your chin. If you haven't yet, take a look at these videos which might provide some help.

Shaving videos - Straight Razor Place Wiki
Kent

What I find helpful on the chin area is not to stretch the skin so much as tack it down, this keep the skin from sliding. The chin does not have as much stretch as other places on the face. Apply tension to the skin by holding your fingers in a V fashion, I use my thumb and forefinger.

It works for me but as listed above anyone has a different method of doing this area of the face.

Crom

I've only been at this for about 7 months, so I'm not far ahead of you. It will fall into place and you will find what works best for you. Don't fret the irritation and nicks you'll encounter along the way. I remember having trouble and questioning my blade sharpness and other variables, but it was just my inexperience. You'll read frequent references here to technique....that it, more than anything, makes the biggest difference. At times I was frustrated because I thought my technique was pretty good... but looking back, I am amazed how much I improved. Anyway, stay positieve and keep going. It will fall into place and the chin will be just an everyday speed bump.

For me, I do best with an ATG stroke coming up my neck. Short strokes with a shallow angle. I shave down my chin also as far as I can, making all kinds of faces while I move to stretch the skin over my chin.

Anyway, best...

I tilt my head as if I'm looking towards the ceiling and come at it from underneath with the previously mentioned short strokes. I don't think there is any tougher area as far as the coarseness and density of the whiskers on my face than under and out to the tip of my chin.

A truly sharp razor is essential on mine and it is a matter of trial and error to find the blade angle and direction from which to approach it IME. Keep at it and you'll figure out your personal method. Read my sig below to avoid nicks. :gl:

Gentlemen,

I must commend Unruhe for starting this thread. It is indeed useful. Well done.

I must also commend Jockeys for his video: talk is limited to the essentials, and the demonstration logical and comprehensive. Well done, sir.

Regards,

Obie

Unruhe, I have been using my SR for 2 whole weeks now, and the curve of the chin in my nemesis. I have only progressed to WTG, but I hear your pain.

I enjoy reading these posts, finding tips and waiting for morning to arrive to give them a try. I think I will try the V tip with the opposing hand's thumb and index finger tomorrow.

I started to get the hang of continuous motion with changing the angle.
Also do sweeping passes, which seems to be easier for me.

I have a lateral scar on my chin, about 1 inch long. I'm always scared I'm gonna cut it right off while shaving, but keeping the skin taut has kept it nick free.

Someone at some time on the forum suggested that if you pull the skin up a little with your lip relaxed, you can bring the 'corner' skin up top where it will be flat on top (front?) of your chin, and shave it there.
Then when you stretch the skin under your chin, you'll be past the corner already.

The chin is tricky . I've been straight shaving for over 2 years , and the chin is still the toughest part of my face to shave , my moustache is the next hardest (maybe that's why gotee's became popular;)) More experience is the cure .