Thread: Technique, technique, technique

Originally Posted by JMS

Let me say here that if one has sufficient experience and ability and a sharp razor he can shave his face comfortably and smoothly with no more prep than washing ones face and keeping it wet. Once one can accomplish this then the soap/cream will be a matter of choice and will no longer be a crutch.

I will not take you to task over your POV on technique. You've obviously been at this for longer than me, so we'll leave it at that.

I do, however, completely disagree with the above statement. Your post was well thought out, but excludes one crucial element: skin type. This is the one area that technique and the sharpest razor in the world can not control completely. Shaving soaps/creams are a lubricant, as opposed to water, and are not a crutch but rather a necessity for many. Unless you are one of those guys whose face is as ruddy as their strop and can get away with shaving with nothing but a bit of water, the use of soaps & creams is a reality. This is the case if you have sensitive skin, as I do. Water alone simply will not cut it (yes, pun intended).

I have no doubt that you are able to get a wonderfully close shave with nothing but water and a scalpel sharp razor as I'm sure a few others here can as well, but that is your skin type. But please don't assume that we're all the same by saying that soaps/creams are a crutch and your technique isn't up to par if you can't accomplish this. That's just not realistic.