Second Shave & Advice 4 N00bs

Ok, so I just had my second straight razor shave today. Normally, I wouldn't make a big deal of subsequent shaves, but this one comes with a couple pieces of advice I want to share with the other n00bsteads.

My second shave went very well, I think. It was a bit more efficient, I felt more comfortable handling the razor, I got a little more coordination, and got my shave a little closer. It was also the first time I got the full traditional wet shave experience. I just got my brush and a puck of Proraso Menthol/Eucalyptus shave soap (which I'll be writing a review of in the Soaps&Creams section) in the mail, and went to town. Goodbye to the crappy Gilette goo in aerosol cans! Anyways, I'm still optimistic and enjoying my straight razor experience.

Having said that, I have some tips for my fellow beginners out there. Like someone a hell of a lot smarter than I am said, "A fool learns from his own mistakes. The wise learn from the mistakes of others." ...or something like that. You get the idea.

Be Careful! You're holding a very sharp and potentially dangerous tool. I was doing an XTG pass on my cheek, and didn't take the appropriate time placing my blade. With one slight vertical movement of my razor came a nice cut on my face (don't worry, I'm OK). Speaking of multiple passes;

Re-lather! Trust me, it'll be a lot more comfortable.

Dry Your Hands Often! Remember what I said about that thing you're holding being sharp and all that? Yea, I had to find that one out the hard way twice apparently. My razor slipped out of my hands while I was adjusting my grip, and I managed to cut my index finger catching it before it crashed to the sink. Again, not a serious cut, but still one that could have been avoided.

Strop Between Passes! This one is a matter of personal preference. I just think that one of the reasons my shave tonight was more comfortable is that I stropped my razor between passes. I just did about 10 laps on the leather side. Again, this is totally up to you whether or not it's necessary.

Please don't let my talk of cutting myself discourage you or scare you off. These are mistakes that can easily be eliminated with a little care and patience. Just remember what I've said here, my fellow greenhorns, and you'll have an even more comfortable shave than I did. Enjoy!

Thanks for sharing your experience. It only gets better with practice!

I ran up the learning curve at warp speed, but did have some trial and error to begin with. Its part of the fun!

Pabster