Thread: Unbelievable Difference.

So it's been nearly 8 months since I began using straight razors and, like many, I dove into it. I'm into hones, brushes, soaps, razors, etc.. It has basically come down to the realization that: Number of shaving products I "need" > disposable income.

So what I'm getting at here is that I, for 8 months, have overlooked the most important thing... the actual shave. I had everything right in my mind. I've got the go-to razor (Friodur), I've got the SRD strop, MWF, the set of Naniwas, I've got the technique/angle down.

The MAJOR thing I was missing until today was the directional path I needed to be using with my razor passes. I never really took the time to actually look up close at the pattern in which my facial hair grows. So I had a couple of days off and decided to skip shaving and let it grow out a bit. Tonight I actually went online and found this: http://www.bruceonshaving.com/wp-con...h-template.jpg

I literally mapped out my face and stuck it near the mirror when I shaved and I was amazed at the difference in my shaving pass directions. I had just always assumed that everything grew in the "normal" up/down side to side patterns one would logically think regarding the face. WRONG.

My shaves were never bad; I was actually extremely satisfied with my results aside from the irritation and razor burn I would get on occasion. The burn starting increasing recently which prompted my investigation which led to this face mapping.

So my conclusion is... if you haven't mapped your face, even if you think you're getting great shaves and you know exactly how everything grows, take 5 minutes and give it a try. It made a wonderful difference for me - not a hint of irritation and a perfect shave in my book after just one shot.


Adam

Thank you so much for posting this, it's exactly what I needed to read. I'm 4 months in myself and have hit a point much like you are describing. I shall let my beard grow over the weekend and then map it out

I agree completely. But I have a problem. It's a personal problem. I have a bit of an issue. Well, a LOT of an issue. Since I started this SR thing I haven't been able to go a day without a shave! Maybe I need counselling?

On a more serious note, I really, really think that there's three key points, and I guess everyone knows them but anyway:

(1) The razor (the edge (sharpness))
(2) The technique (what you said really)
(3) the lather. It's becoming REALLY clear to me lately how MUCH the lather effects the shave.

Today, for maybe the second time, my lather was too watery. I was in a bad mood and put too much water in with the glycerin, cream and soap of my Überlather mix. I pumped and mixed and swished but it remained watery. Running out of time, I used it anyway, it was INCREDIBLE how POOR the shave ended up!

In the old days one of the most basic things barbers in training were taught was how to map a customers beard. It's the key to giving a great shave.

Shaving passes - Straight Razor Place Wiki

Lots of good stuff in our Wiki.

Have fun,

Lynn