Thread: The Water-Only Pass

I typically two two lather passes, first with the grain then against, and follow-up with a water only pass to pick off any stragglers. Last shave I played with lather on the first pass, and water only on the second pass. I feel like I was able to make some problem areas a little cleaner this way. I am going to continue experimenting with a water second pass.

I only do it if my face is still a bit slick from the soap or cream and I do it only for slight touch ups

I do two passes with soap one with the grain and one against and a touchup pass with water only but that last pass is a very light one.

Greetings Larry,

I thought I'd give the water-only pass a go today. All I can say is WOW, it really works!

yup! Just don't try it with a DE..ouch!

Originally Posted by Rik

Greetings Larry,
I thought I'd give the water-only pass a go today. All I can say is WOW, it really works!

Yes, it's really amazing. I was skeptical when reading Brian's posts about this, but I'm a believer now.

I agree with both Rik and Korndog. I tried the final/touch up pass with just water and shaving oil and the results were awesome -- one of my best shaves thus far. For those of you who have never tried it, I would strongly recommend giving it a try at least once. It's now going to be part of my routine. It adds a few more minutes, but the results make it worthwhile.

Rob

Hi guys,

another nice idea to pursue. With interest roused from this thread I tried a water-only against-the-grain pass after my first with-the-grain pass - I usually do the second pass with lather but not this time.

Wow and behold, in all aspects a real alternative to the lather-pass - but closer

The most astonishing thing for me was that the second lather pass actually did not add any increased softness to the beard, the water-only pass against the grain was at least as comfortable !

Great point, great threat, great method - I positively love this forum !!

A nice weekend with lots-o-time for even nicer shaves for all of you,
-Axel-

I always make my final pass with a dab of lather on my fingers and water. I firmly drag my free hand over my face to feel if there's stubble or not. The razor is following closely behind to remove any stragglers. The firm "slide" over my face with my hand also serves to lift the remaining stubble long enough for the blade to cut them extra close.

Can't claim to have done a water only pass. My skin is pretty sensitive, and my razormanship (???) not so good quite yet.

Maybe someday in the not too distant future when I don't look like I got in a fight with a switchblade wielding street thug. (No, seriously, I only cut myself once.

I remember non-shaving cream passes with a regular safety razor, and the razor burn was pretty spectacular. I guess you can use a lighter touch with the straight?

-Keith