Thread: I think it's my lather???

I've been trying to learn the techique for straight shaving since last November. I still have been getting fairly bad razor burn, especially on the neck and chin. Out of frustration, I switched back to my safety razor, thinking I wouldn't have the same issue (I didn't before I switched exclusively to the shaving soap and straight razor). But the burn continues...so the only thing I can think of is its the soap I'm using or my lather. I've used shaving soap before and didn't experience the same issue.

So, should I change my soap or work on my lather? Or am I way off base...

What type of soap are you using and what technique for making lather? Here's a link to the wiki on that subject.

Category:Lather - Straight Razor Place Wiki

How sharp is your razor and how often do you shave. How are you doing on beard prep too? There is many reasons razor burn especailly since the chin is difficult to shave anyway.

it could be technique , too much pressure even though you think you are applying the right one.

Why don't you shave with something totally different than shave soap, say shave oil, and shave only WTG. Shave your easiest area... probably, your cheek. You shouldn't get razor burn.

Then, start adding elements one by one until you have figured out the problem element.

My bet is for a less-than-sharp blade. In which case, my above suggestion might not eliminate razor burn. But, this in itself would be revealing.

By the way, you can cheaply make your own pre-shave oil, buy some at Walmart, or buy better quality oil. The Walmart shave oil is nothing to write home about. But, it works. And, will work well enough for you to eliminate shave soap as the culprit.

Hey Man!

You want to come by for a tutorial?

PM if so and we'll set up a time, or I am willing to come to you and see if I can't help you out.

-Rob

As mentioned, you may be using too much pressure with both straight and DE.

With a staright you want to use only enough pressure to keep the blade on your face, just barely squeegeing the lather off, with the spine laying almost flat against your face, not at a 30 degree angle, as is commonly recommended.

To use very little pressure you also need a very sharp razor for best results.


Of course, this is also a good excuse to go out and buy some soap! AOS makes a very nice soap in a variety of scents. Tabac is great, but people either love or hate the smell.