Thread: First straight razor shave. absolutely horrible what am I doing wrong?

Originally Posted by rmani

i purchased geo trumper shaving cream from SRD. The lather was a bit watery but I still can't see how it could make the shave as painful as it was. Will try again tomorrow and report back. When you strope how many times do you go back and fourth?

You should strop 50 laps. 1 up 1 down. On leather. Skip the cloth for now. Too watery isn't going to make it stick. It would be if it is too thick that you would have trouble. Try stropping extra light. Only enough pressure to keep the razor on the strop. Go slow. The strop should be taught. Not tight or slacking. Try shaving again very lightly pressure. If that doesn't work I would recommend trying to meet someone in NJ or sending your razor to someone to "test shave" and can rehone. Have them send it back to you. And shave without stropping.

Don't skimp on your cream. Lately I've been using a lot larger 'portions' and it makes lovely thick lather and stops it from going too thin once you get to a third pass.

Besides, if you've bought something like GFT or limes, they tend to be on the runnier side anyway.

Originally Posted by rmani

When you say applying pressure yes i am but the razor doesnt move and inch if i dont. Yes i am stretching my skin as well. It just doesnt cut the hairs. When i go with the grain it doesnt even lool or feel like i shaved. Against the grain is too painful.

HOw does it feel on the first pass, it took me 3 months before I could get a comfortable multi-pass shave. Just focus on getting the best with the grain pass possible then clean up with your old method. If you take your time you will eventually get to where the old method will not be needed.

Can you describe your shaving technique a little?

How are you holding the razor and what motion are you using to shave?

I think if you are willing to discuss your technique a bit you can get a more comfortable shave.

Michael

going with the grain was painful and after i was done it looked like i hadn't even shaved. i do the right side of my face with my right hand and left side w my left hand as i saw on a youtube video. i put to fingers on the front and two on the handle part that is folded over and pull my face tight and gently pull down along the side with the blade at an angle to my face.

It doesnt appear you are doing something wrong with your stroke. My best guess it you damaged the edge stropping.

i followed this video: STRAIGHT RAZOR STROPPING: HOW TO PREPARE BLADE FOR a SHAVE: STROP BEFORE SHAVING & RAZOR CARE - YouTube