Thread: Starting Out

Just a quick question from a newbie. I've got my first razor on its way and i am very excited to jump in to the straight razor experience. So ive got some col conks almond and lime and they smell fantastic. I also have peraso(i think) cream and taylor's sandalwood scented cream. Which should i start out with to facilitate this learning experience? thanks

I would suggest that you waste a little of each brand. By this I mean you should practice lathering and not worry about the soap going down the drain. Try all the variations you can think of, but most of all have fun.

Edit:

Welcome to SRP

Jonathan

Originally Posted by Datsots

practice lathering and not worry about the soap going down the drain.

That's probably sounding like a crazy idea, but go ahead and do it. My lathering really improved after I "played around" a bit with the technique with no intent of shaving just having fun with my son (2yo).

of what you have, Proraso (although not my favorite) is the easiest (for me) to develop a usable lather and least sensitive (IMO) to technique and water quality

The proraso and tobs are both good latherers and great shavers IMO. The conk's lather is pretty good, too, but takes a bit more work.

So I decided to start out w/ the proraso. I got a decent lather but not quite as thick as expected. No razor burn and fairly decent shave for a first time. I'm looking forward to round two this afternoon after getting off the ski hill.

Congratulations

You might like to take a look at some of the uber lather recipes. Basically soap + cream + glycerin + water = uber lather.

Jonathan

That's a great thread. Thanks. Think I might try some sandalwood cream and a bit of col's almond soap.

Just keep in mind if you are comparing lather to the canned goo like foamy and the gels you don't need that kind of lather. It's quality over quantity. yes, some guys try different routines to get lather like that however you don't need 3 inches or foam on your face to get a great shave. Just a nice even coat.