Shaving - How to make it better

Shaving sucks. Let's talk about how to make it suck less.

I used to use those multi-blade monstrosities and my face would feel irritated for 3-4 hours after shaving. Started using a double-edged safety razor and it's a much closer shave with less irritation. But it still sucks.

If I use an electric razor, there's less irritation per pass. But I have to make so many passes that it ends up at best the same, but with a less close shave.

My electric razor is pretty cheap (like $40). Would I see a significant difference were I to use an expensive one? It doesn't bother me if the shave isn't very close. I just want as little irritation as possible. And I don't want a beard.

tl;dr:
How to maintain minimal facial hair at maximal comfort?
Share your wisdom with me, you hairy old men.

 

If you are willing to put in the time, getting a manual blade is an experience of its own. Look up "wicked_edge" on reddit for some great resources.

 

Get the Remington shaver, I believe it is $60. It gets extremely close, if you take your time with it. Plus, coming from someone who has pretty irritable skin, no irritation caused by using the Remington. Plus, it has a trimmer on the other side if you want to keep a nice facial fuzz going on

Frank Sinatra - "Alcohol may be man's worst enemy, but the bible says love your enemy."
 

Shaving sucks ass. Some things I have found to make it slightly more bearable:

  • Do it in the shower. Easier to rinse the hairs off the razor, the hot water softens the hair. Don't do it straightaway, wait until you've been in for a couple of minutes (I do it just after applying conditioner and waiting to rinse).
  • Pre-wash the face with one of those exfoliating scrubs. This just seems to lift all the hairs and get a much closer shave.
  • Shave with the grain and then away in that order.
  • You can tend to get away with just shaving with the grain on the underside of the chin and neck depending on how close your razor shaves. I use one of those 4 bladed ones and although I can feel the stubble, you can't see it. Neck seems to be the place where you get most irritation as well.
  • Alcohol based aftershaves tend to really cause irritation. I just use a standard facial moisturiser when I'm out of the shower.
  • Don't shave everyday! If you can get away with it, try just shaving on Monday & Wednesday mornings. Having slightly more hair seems to reduce the irritation.
 

Shaving only sucks if you suck at it. Get a real razor, like a straight or double-edge, not a sissy multicartridge piece of crap. Get yourself a quality shaving brush and some quality shaving cream or soap. If you are using the crap that Gillette advertises, you are most certainly going to get a bad shave. Google "wet shaving".

 

I wear a beard, but I also got laiser hair removal for my neck area and around the adam's apple where i would always cut myself.

The laser hair removal was free for me though since my fiance is a dermatology resident, it took ~6 treatments, but it worked REALLY well (note, i am pale and i have dark hair = best results).

Point is, now when I shave, it's just to trim my beard or clean the neck up a bit. Not having to shave my neck too far down anymore is amazing.

Kiron:

Shaving only sucks if you suck at it. Get a real razor, like a straight or double-edge, not a sissy multicartridge piece of crap. Get yourself a quality shaving brush and some quality shaving cream or soap. If you are using the crap that Gillette advertises, you are most certainly going to get a bad shave. Google "wet shaving".

Read my OP. I use a safety razor.

By the way, how did cartridge shaving ever become so mainstream? It's a massive ripoff. Why do you need 12 blades? The first one shaves and the rest irritate the shit out of your skin. I pay like $5 for 25 double-edged razors and people pay like $8 for a five pack of Gilettes.

Anyway, I'm looking for a path of least resistance type deal with the shaving. I hate feeling uncomfortable and cluttered. I buzz my head every few weeks. A beard will make me sweat more than I need to and that's gross. And I just don't want one. dat jawline

I think, ideally, I'd fine an electric shaver that doesn't irritate at all. I'm willing to sacrifice some cleanness of the shave for that. I prefer having 2-4 days' worth of facial hair anyway.

"Mr. Perkins poses an extreme risk to the market when drunk."
 
kingoftheotherroad:

splash of water -> shaving soap -> shaving cream -> straight razor (2x) -> splash of water -> coconut oil = perfection.

Why coconut oil? I used to cook with that.

"Mr. Perkins poses an extreme risk to the market when drunk."
 
In The Flesh:

I'm just waiting for Nefarious to chime in here with his "Shave with a straight razor and strop OR ELSE!"

I don't see the benefit of a straight razor over that of a double-edged safety razor.

...it's cooler

"Mr. Perkins poses an extreme risk to the market when drunk."
 

I also have sensitive skin, but I started using the Panasonic ES8103S electric shaver and it's been great - no irritation. I was skeptical about whether a more expensive shaver would make a difference, but at least in my experience, it does.

It works wet/dry, has a great battery life, has the flip up sideburn trimmer, and like I said, has zero irritation. It also lets me shave very quickly since it's a foil shaver - big plus for when I'm running late. FYI - I use it every day with the same results.

This one only has 3 blades and depending upon how much you're looking to spend, they have a four blade version which is probably a bit better, but this had all the important factors for me like a linear motor (so the shaver works at 100% power until it's dead) and a high rpm.

 
Anihilist:

Laser hair removal for your face

I'm generally a fan of laser but if you're considering it for the first time, do your research and be careful. If your technician/doc gets the timing/spacing of the zaps wrong, you could end up with zebra patterns - happened to a friend. Plus, you never know quite how your hair is going to respond. If you have multiple textures, the laser might only remove one and leave you patchy. Sometimes the hair grows back anyway, just in wispy thinner strands.

If you're interested in even thinning, say on your neck, or cleaning up the hair line, consider electrolysis instead. The hairs are individually and permanently removed, it hurts less, and for small areas it generally takes less time and fewer visits than laser. Also great for those of you vain monkeys who pluck your unibrow.

 
mehtal:
Anihilist:

Laser hair removal for your face

I'm generally a fan of laser but if you're considering it for the first time, do your research and be careful. If your technician/doc gets the timing/spacing of the zaps wrong, you could end up with zebra patterns - happened to a friend. Plus, you never know quite how your hair is going to respond. If you have multiple textures, the laser might only remove one and leave you patchy. Sometimes the hair grows back anyway, just in wispy thinner strands.

If you're interested in even thinning, say on your neck, or cleaning up the hair line, consider electrolysis instead. The hairs are individually and permanently removed, it hurts less, and for small areas it generally takes less time and fewer visits than laser. Also great for those of you vain monkeys who pluck your unibrow.

Plucking a unibrow is common sense, not vanity.

Don't worry everyone - I am here. Stand by for my extensive knowledge of shaving.

First and foremost: Shave with a straight razor. There isn't even really anything else to discuss. Sure, there will be a nominal upfront capital investment, but what you are investing in (if a quality product like a dovo) will last you forever. You will simply need a sharpening stone to sharpen it when it starts dulling over time.

The straight razor provides the closest shave out of any option that you can find. Including over the safety razor. A safety razor would be a good second option to the straight; however, its downfall is you will need to continue to buy blades. Not only will you need to continue to buy blades, but you will need to test many blades to find which one is perfect for your face. This can result in a waste of time and money.

The cartridge razors are extremely overpriced for what you get. It has been a long time since I purchased a pack of cartridges, but I think the price of one pack (which lasts like, what, a month maybe?) is the cost of an actual safety razor - three months and you could have bought your straight razor for life.

Never use an electric razor to shave your face. It is like using a fucking cheese grater. As you can see from the following picture, there is a huge difference between using a blade and an electric and over time the continued use of electric razors can lead to acne, ingrown hairs and even a disgusting infection called folliculitis.

http://i.imgur.com/fkkn3.png

I typically shave at night - this cuts down on irritation. There is a proper format to the shave, it typically goes as follows:

1 - Shower (This will soften the beard and open the pores) 2 - Apply pre-shave cream or oil (optional - really depends on stubble thickness and skin sensitivity) 3 - Prep your shave (Strop the straight blade, soak the brush in warm water, etc) 4 - Prepare your lather 5 - Apply lather with brush 6 - Shave with the grain first, stretching your skin to create a flat, tight surface for the blade to pass on 7 - Re-apply shave cream and shave against the grain (optional, but will result in a smoother/closer shave) 8 - If you cut yourself, apply a stipic pencil 9 - Use a warm washcloth to clean your face 8 - Use a warm washcloth on your face to help cure your face and re-open the pores to remove excess dirt 9 - Apply a cold washcloth to close the pores, this will help prevent acne or infections 10 - Apply your aftershave 11 - Once the aftershave has dried, apply a face lotion

Voilà - you are now alpha.

You're born, you take shit. You get out in the world, you take more shit. You climb a little higher, you take less shit. Till one day you're up in the rarefied atmosphere and you've forgotten what shit even looks like. Welcome to the layer cake, son.
 

Fork, here's something I tried since I have considered / done most of what's been mentioned here: get a safety razor with ONE blade. It's an enormous difference from the ones with 2 blades, and I was quite shocked myself to see just how much of a difference it made.

Nefarious is absolutely dead-on with everything he said, especially about avoiding electric razors, +1.

in it 2 win it
 
Kassad:
Fork, here's something I tried since I have considered / done most of what's been mentioned here: get a safety razor with ONE blade. It's an enormous difference from the ones with 2 blades, and I was quite shocked myself to see just how much of a difference it made.

Never really paid attention to these, ordering one off amazon now

Get busy living
 
RustyFork:
kingoftheotherroad:

splash of water -> shaving soap -> shaving cream -> straight razor (2x) -> splash of water -> coconut oil = perfection.

Why coconut oil? I used to cook with that.

best moisturizer there is. Also it doesn't have any harsh chemicals

 

I used to use a four cartridge razor and foam from a can but results were pretty poor so I switched to the DE safety with a brush and proper cream. I used the DE for close to two years but found it never gave me a satisfactory shave..it just cut my face up badly...they are not easy to use...I am sure they would give a great shave if you were good at it but I never really got the hang of it and at 6 o'clock on Monday morning I dont want to have to concentrate that hard.

I think I found the perfect compromise in the Gilette Sensor Excel. Its a two blade razor and I use it with a really good shaving cream and brush. I use face scrub before hand to prep skin and I use an after shave balm after. I dont scrimp on anything...all good stuff and I find it really works well for me.

Sensor Excel is old school but it is a really good little razor (although I admit not nearly as cool as a DE).

My bro got me a straight razor for Christmas....ha ha made hamburger out of my face...never again!

 

Well I bought a Braun series 7 a couple weeks ago and I absolutely love it. The shaving isn't quite as close as a normal razor but the comfort is incredible. I've been shaving every day and there has not been any irritation whatsoever which definitely was not the case with the Gillette...

 

In the morning if my face is a little puffy I'll put on an ice pack while doing stomach crunches. I can do 1000 now. After I remove the ice pack I use a deep pore cleanser lotion. In the shower I use a water activated gel cleanser, then a honey almond body scrub, and on the face an exfoliating gel scrub. Then I apply an herb-mint facial mask which I leave on for 10 minutes while I prepare the rest of my routine. I always use an after shave lotion with little or no alcohol, because alcohol dries your face out and makes you look older. Then moisturizer, then an anti-aging eye balm followed by a final moisturizing protective lotion.

I am a false prophet. God is a superstition.
 

If you want to try out straight razor shaving but dont wanna buy an expensive straight razor you can get a "shavette" from DOVO. Its essentially a disposable straight edge. I have one and its a good introductory razor to get your bearings and to learn the contours of your face. This and follow the process mentioned earlier from "Nefarious" and you will be golden kid'.

I hope this is better than the last batch of shit you gave me. Produced more wood than Ron Jeremy. I don't want you to yell, "Reco!" anymore. Know what you should yell? "Timber!" Yeah, Mr. Fuckin' wood.
 
Nefarious-:

Don't worry everyone - I am here. Stand by for my extensive knowledge of shaving.

First and foremost: Shave with a straight razor. There isn't even really anything else to discuss. Sure, there will be a nominal upfront capital investment, but what you are investing in (if a quality product like a dovo) will last you forever. You will simply need a sharping stone to sharpen it when it starts dulling over time.

The straight razor provides the closest shave out of any option that you can find. Including over the safety razor. A safety razor would be a good second option to the straight; however, it's downfall is you will need to continue to buy blades. Not only will you need to continue to buy blades, but you will need to test many blades to find which one is perfect for your face. This can result in a waste of time and money.

The cartridge razors are extremely overpriced for what you get. It has been a long time since I purchased a pack of cartridges, but I think the price of one pack (which lasts like, what, a month maybe?) is the cost of an actual safety razor - three months and you could have bought your straight razor for life.

Never use an electric razor to shave your face. It is like using a fucking cheese grater. As you can see from the following picture, there is a huge difference between using a blade and an electric and over time the continued use of electric razors can lead to acne, ingrown hairs and even a disgusting infection called folliculitis.

http://i.imgur.com/fkkn3.png

I typically shave at night - this cuts down on irritation. There is a proper format to the shave, it typically goes as follows:

1 - Shower (This will soften the beard and open the pores)
2 - Apply pre-shave cream or oil (optional - really depends on stubble thickness and skin sensitivity)
3 - Prep your shave (Strop the straight blade, soak the brush in warm water, etc)
4 - Prepare your lather
5 - Apply lather with brush
6 - Shave with the grain first, stretching your skin to create a flat, tight surface for the blade to pass on
7 - Re-apply shave cream and shave against the grain (optional, but will result in a smoother/closer shave)
8 - If you cut yourself, apply a stipic pencil
9 - Use a warm washcloth to clean your face
8 - Use a warm washcloth on your face to help cure your face and re-open the pores to remove excess dirt
9 - Apply a cold washcloth to close the pores, this will help prevent acne or infections
10 - Apply your aftershave
11 - Once the aftershave has dried, apply a face lotion

Voilà - you are now alpha.

Boom.

Metal. Music. Life. www.headofmetal.com
 
Asatar:

Shaving sucks ass. Some things I have found to make it slightly more bearable:

  • Do it in the shower. Easier to rinse the hairs off the razor, the hot water softens the hair. Don't do it straightaway, wait until you've been in for a couple of minutes (I do it just after applying conditioner and waiting to rinse).
  • Pre-wash the face with one of those exfoliating scrubs. This just seems to lift all the hairs and get a much closer shave.
  • Shave with the grain and then away in that order.
  • You can tend to get away with just shaving with the grain on the underside of the chin and neck depending on how close your razor shaves. I use one of those 4 bladed ones and although I can feel the stubble, you can't see it. Neck seems to be the place where you get most irritation as well.
  • Alcohol based aftershaves tend to really cause irritation. I just use a standard facial moisturiser when I'm out of the shower.
  • Don't shave everyday! If you can get away with it, try just shaving on Monday & Wednesday mornings. Having slightly more hair seems to reduce the irritation.

Are you..... me?

 

Braun Series 7 electric razor. Yes it's absurdly expensive, no you don't need the self cleaning thingy (dipping the head in a tupperware container of rubbing alcohol does the same thing), but it should last at least 3 years (with a 20 dollar blade change after about 12 months) and it make severy other razor seem like a shitty toy. I swore by panasonic wet/dry razors for years, phillishave (phillips whatever) doesn't pick up flat-lying whiskers on your neck, this thing blows them both out of the water.

 
bengigi:

Well I bought a Braun series 7 a couple weeks ago and I absolutely love it. The shaving isn't quite as close as a normal razor but the comfort is incredible.
I've been shaving every day and there has not been any irritation whatsoever which definitely was not the case with the Gillette...

if you're not getting a close shave from the braun try waiting until you've been up for a couple of hours before shaving... i find if I shave with a puffy face right after getting up it's not as good.

 
greengohome:

Braun Series 7 electric razor. Yes it's absurdly expensive, no you don't need the self cleaning thingy (dipping the head in a tupperware container of rubbing alcohol does the same thing), but it should last at least 3 years (with a 20 dollar blade change after about 12 months) and it make severy other razor seem like a shitty toy. I swore by panasonic wet/dry razors for years, phillishave (phillips whatever) doesn't pick up flat-lying whiskers on your neck, this thing blows them both out of the water.

I gave up on electric razors, however I did enjoy my overpriced Braun for my in-between shaves. I would shave on Monday, Braun on Tuesday etc.

 

only beginners take forever. Once you realize all the extra crap (shaving oil, lather, etc) is useless + a waste of money it goes quick.

My routine:

  1. splash of water
  2. shaving soap (get it wet then rub on face)
  3. shaving cream
  4. fully strokes down face with straight razor
  5. shaving cream
  6. Pull skin, strokes downward (or against - depends on how I feel) 7.splash of water
  7. coconut oil

-all in about 2-3 minutes MAX.

 
John D. Peckerson:
Asatar:
  • ....Shaving on Monday & Wednesday mornings.
  • BOOM solved, saved time as well.

    Gentlemen suggesting straight razors: You must be nuts or insomniac.. I don't know about you guys, but most days I would rather sleep a little bit longer rather than spend (waste) time on an inordinately long morning ritual.

    Most people that use a straight razor find the entire process to be extremely meditating as you are spending thirty minutes relaxing and focusing. Although I conduct my shaves at night, when I did shave in the morning I found it would wake me up and get me ready for the day better than a cup of coffee.

    You're born, you take shit. You get out in the world, you take more shit. You climb a little higher, you take less shit. Till one day you're up in the rarefied atmosphere and you've forgotten what shit even looks like. Welcome to the layer cake, son.
     
    Nefarious-:
    John D. Peckerson:
    Asatar:
  • ....Shaving on Monday & Wednesday mornings.
  • BOOM solved, saved time as well.

    Gentlemen suggesting straight razors: You must be nuts or insomniac.. I don't know about you guys, but most days I would rather sleep a little bit longer rather than spend (waste) time on an inordinately long morning ritual.

    Most people that use a straight razor find the entire process to be extremely meditating as you are spending thirty minutes relaxing and focusing. Although I conduct my shaves at night, when I did shave in the morning I found it would wake me up and get me ready for the day better than a cup of coffee.

    30 minutes? Are you serious?

    Get a life man.

     
    Nefarious-:
    John D. Peckerson:
    Asatar:
  • ....Shaving on Monday & Wednesday mornings.
  • BOOM solved, saved time as well.

    Gentlemen suggesting straight razors: You must be nuts or insomniac.. I don't know about you guys, but most days I would rather sleep a little bit longer rather than spend (waste) time on an inordinately long morning ritual.

    Most people that use a straight razor find the entire process to be extremely meditating as you are spending thirty minutes relaxing and focusing. Although I conduct my shaves at night, when I did shave in the morning I found it would wake me up and get me ready for the day better than a cup of coffee.

    Fair enough Nefarius, I can relate to that argument, having your attention focused on a manual task is indeed very relaxing. Also must say the manliness and style appeals to me but I continue to be scared off by the prospect of having to shave with a decidedly non idiot-proof knife while tired and in a rush!

     
    kingoftheotherroad:
    Nefarious-:
    John D. Peckerson:
    Asatar:
  • ....Shaving on Monday & Wednesday mornings.
  • BOOM solved, saved time as well.

    Gentlemen suggesting straight razors: You must be nuts or insomniac.. I don't know about you guys, but most days I would rather sleep a little bit longer rather than spend (waste) time on an inordinately long morning ritual.

    Most people that use a straight razor find the entire process to be extremely meditating as you are spending thirty minutes relaxing and focusing. Although I conduct my shaves at night, when I did shave in the morning I found it would wake me up and get me ready for the day better than a cup of coffee.

    30 minutes? Are you serious?

    Get a life man.

    Get a life because I take the proper steps in shaving my face?

    You're born, you take shit. You get out in the world, you take more shit. You climb a little higher, you take less shit. Till one day you're up in the rarefied atmosphere and you've forgotten what shit even looks like. Welcome to the layer cake, son.
     
    John D. Peckerson:
    Nefarious-:
    John D. Peckerson:
    Asatar:
  • ....Shaving on Monday & Wednesday mornings.
  • BOOM solved, saved time as well.

    Gentlemen suggesting straight razors: You must be nuts or insomniac.. I don't know about you guys, but most days I would rather sleep a little bit longer rather than spend (waste) time on an inordinately long morning ritual.

    Most people that use a straight razor find the entire process to be extremely meditating as you are spending thirty minutes relaxing and focusing. Although I conduct my shaves at night, when I did shave in the morning I found it would wake me up and get me ready for the day better than a cup of coffee.

    Fair enough Nefarius, I can relate to that argument, having your attention focused on a manual task is indeed very relaxing. Also must say the manliness and style appeals to me but I continue to be scared of by the prospect of having to shave with a decidedly non idiot-proof knife while tired and in a rush!

    Completely understandable as it can be intimidating. There is a huge learning curve when it comes to proper wet shaving (especially with a straight razor). I remember when I first started, I cut the shit out of myself. A lot. It is going to happen until you get the hang of it. Maybe start out with a safety razor and go from there.

    You're born, you take shit. You get out in the world, you take more shit. You climb a little higher, you take less shit. Till one day you're up in the rarefied atmosphere and you've forgotten what shit even looks like. Welcome to the layer cake, son.
     

    [quote=Nefarious

    Completely understandable as it can be intimidating. There is a huge learning curve when it comes to proper wet shaving (especially with a straight razor). I remember when I first started, I cut the shit out of myself. A lot. It is going to happen until you get the hang of it. Maybe start out with a safety razor and go from there.

    [/quote]

    Hopefully that quote worked correctly..

    Nefarious is absolutely spot on. I started with a DE razor (a good quality german one will last your lifetime and beyond). There are hundreds of different blades, some significantly sharper than others. Those cartridge blades use some of the lowest quality blades out there. Terrible for your face. The DE blade widely regarded as the sharpest are Feathers.. made in japan and are top notch.

    For those complaining about wasting time, I can prep my brush while I shower, use a high quality english cream, face lather and get a full shave in the same amount of time, or less, than those awful cartridge razors.

    I have upgraded to a straight edge, and having come from a DE, the learning curve is lessened some what. I highly recommend you take it up.

    My .02

     

    Bro, ff you are getting irritation with a double edge (DE) safety razor, you are doing something wrong.

    1) Get a vintage Gillette adjustable off ebay. You can adjust how much of the blade is exposed which helps reduce irritation until you are used to shaving. Start at a 2 and work up.

    2) Get good blades. Personna Medical Prep.

    3) If you have a lot of growth, then trim it down. The DE will suck with a lot of growth.

    4) Wash your f'ing face before you shave. Nivea for Men moisturizing face wash. Also, this will sound weird but get an electric toothbrush, one of those disposable ones, and use it as an exfoliator. Especially in areas where you get irritation. I would just wash your face without the scrubbing if you are shaving right after -- so morning wash then shave, night wash with exfoliation. You get irritation because crap gets in your pores, so scrubbing cleans it out and helps prevent ingrown hairs.

    5) When shaving, use a good cream and a badger hair brush. Geo F Trumpers Coconut Oil or Taylor of Old Bond Street Mr Taylors. Apply with the brush in circular motions to help lift the hair. Bursh should be softened in warm water before using.

    6) Shave lightly, with the grain first pass, sideways of grain second pass. Don't shave against the grain unless your skin is a rock. You should be able to pass a few times without issue.

    7) Use a moisturizer after. Geo F Trumpers Lime Skin Food or Jack Black Post Shave Cooling Gel

    Stick with it for a couple weeks, shave every other day at first. Should have perfect shaves after that. Also, www.badgerandblade.com

     

    Here is all you need to know:

    http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Model-180-Handled-Safety/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref…

    YouTube has some excellent videos on good techniques with a safety razor. It is a bit differnent than shaving with some piece of shit Mach 3, but not really much harder. It takes about the same amount of time in front of a mirror and I would never recommend shaving in the shower (unless you have one of those no-fog mirrors). A straight razor takes some serious technique and you will probably cut yourself a bunch while you learn.

    I use this razor with regular shaving cream (Barbisol) and change the blades every three or four days. A pack of $100 double sided blades will last a year and only cost about $20 on amazon. You will save yourself a couple hundred bucks a year by ditching those expensive cartridges.

    I carry a Mach 3 in my overnight bag and I can tell you that shaving with a safety razor gets you a much closer and significantly more refreshing shave. Every time I travel and have to use the Mach 3, I feel like a have a 5 o'clock shadow at 10 in the morning (and that is with a brand new blade).

     

    Save yourself money and go with bumpfighter. It's cheap and is easily the best razor for razorburn victims out there. It's marketed towards black guys, but I'm white and it works great for me too. I used to spend hundreds of dollars on shaving stuff a couple of times a year but now all I use is airshave gel by tend skin with the bumpfighter razor and trumpers skinfood as my aftershave. Never get a bump or cut ever!

    http://www.amazon.com/Bump-Fighter-46-0221-Razor/dp/B0011Z3WXU/ref=sr_1…

     

    i just use a double blade piece of shit razor in the shower after standing there for about 3-5 minutes under hot water.the hairs become super soft and once i put the shaving gel and it turns to cream i use a small hand mirror in the shower to shave everywhere and periodically rinse the blades under hot water. entire process takes under 5-6 minutes and i probably cut myself once 2 weeks at most- literally.

    just do something and stick to it. after you've done it enough you'll basically become surgical and perfect your ways. i can do a perfect clean shave with the disposable blades i use but would end up slicnig my jugular with a straight blade. practice makes perfect so stick to a routine and you'll be fine

    and yes, dont shave everyday unless you really really have to

    I don't throw darts at a board. I bet on sure things. Read Sun-tzu, The Art of War. Every battle is won before it is ever fought- GG
     

    I shave with a double-bladed safety razor (Merkur 180: http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Model-180-Handled-Safety/dp/B000NL0T1G) and the following routine:

    1. Have a shower and make sure to use a facial cleanser (and exfoliate 2x week). While in the shower I leave the razor in a sink full of warm water.
    2. Get out of the shower and mix my shaving cream (I use Taylor of Old Bond Street for Sensitive Skin: http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sensitive/dp/B003VZPTAC). Make sure you have a badger hair brush, NOT boar hair.
    3. Wet my face, apply shaving cream (circular motion is best; helps raise the hairs), and shave with the grain for the first pass. If I want a closer shave, I'll do a sideways pass, and if I really want a close shave, I'll do one pass against the grain (definitely not necessary and don't recommend doing every day)
    4. Apply aftershave (I use Jack Black's Post-Shave Cooling Gel: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/jack-black-post-shave-cooling-gel/2802365)

    Steps #2-4 take me ~7 minutes each morning but it's well worth it compared to the electric razor I used to use (and it was an expensive one). Make sure you have good blades for your razor. I recommend the Japanese Feather Blades (http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Razor-Blades-Hi-stainless-Double/dp/B001V…)

    The above routine leaves almost zero irritation and the products are subtle and smell great. Good luck!

     

    What temperature water do you guys rinse the blade in? Cold water would harden the blade, which is good I assume. But the skin closes up marginally from a cold razor's touch.

    Warm water softens the blade, but feels nice on the skin.

    "Mr. Perkins poses an extreme risk to the market when drunk."
     
    subrosa:

    Save yourself money and go with bumpfighter. It's cheap and is easily the best razor for razorburn victims out there. It's marketed towards black guys, but I'm white and it works great for me too. I used to spend hundreds of dollars on shaving stuff a couple of times a year but now all I use is airshave gel by tend skin with the bumpfighter razor and trumpers skinfood as my aftershave. Never get a bump or cut ever!

    http://www.amazon.com/Bump-Fighter-46-0221-Razor/d...

    And can anybody vouch for this? Is it a disposable razor or do you need to buy blades?

    "Mr. Perkins poses an extreme risk to the market when drunk."
     
    RustyFork:

    What temperature water do you guys rinse the blade in?
    Cold water would harden the blade, which is good I assume. But the skin closes up marginally from a cold razor's touch.

    Warm water softens the blade, but feels nice on the skin.

    cold when splashing on face, hot when shaving

     
    FormerHornetDriver:

    Here is all you need to know:

    http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Model-180-Handled-Saf...

    YouTube has some excellent videos on good techniques with a safety razor. It is a bit differnent than shaving with some piece of shit Mach 3, but not really much harder. It takes about the same amount of time in front of a mirror and I would never recommend shaving in the shower (unless you have one of those no-fog mirrors). A straight razor takes some serious technique and you will probably cut yourself a bunch while you learn.

    I use this razor with regular shaving cream (Barbisol) and change the blades every three or four days. A pack of $100 double sided blades will last a year and only cost about $20 on amazon. You will save yourself a couple hundred bucks a year by ditching those expensive cartridges.

    I carry a Mach 3 in my overnight bag and I can tell you that shaving with a safety razor gets you a much closer and significantly more refreshing shave. Every time I travel and have to use the Mach 3, I feel like a have a 5 o'clock shadow at 10 in the morning (and that is with a brand new blade).

    Amazon won't let me buy this because it's less than $25 apparently... Since when is that a thing?

    "Mr. Perkins poses an extreme risk to the market when drunk."
     

    get bic "sensitive" razors, single blade disposable (they're yellow). I know it sounds weird getting single blade but they work really well. They are also extremely inexpensive. Use a new blade very frequently (every ~3-5 shaves). Always go with the grain and go in short strokes. MAKE SURE you are going with exactly with the grain, sometimes the grain and shift can be very subtle in the middle of the neck. Then use aftershave with alcohol.

    A few other things that should be obvious, but i'll state them anyways. 1) Splash handfulls of very warm water on your face immediately before putting on the shaving cream, 2) use a good quality shaving cream, 3) run your razor under very hot water after each stroke and make sure there is no hair stuck in the razor, 4) don't go for multiple days without shaving (unless you really need to give your face a break, it is much easier to comfortably shave short hairs then long ones), 5) lastly, use moisturizer on your face and neck after the aftershave dries.

     
    RustyFork:
    FormerHornetDriver:

    Here is all you need to know:

    http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Model-180-Handled-Saf...

    YouTube has some excellent videos on good techniques with a safety razor. It is a bit differnent than shaving with some piece of shit Mach 3, but not really much harder. It takes about the same amount of time in front of a mirror and I would never recommend shaving in the shower (unless you have one of those no-fog mirrors). A straight razor takes some serious technique and you will probably cut yourself a bunch while you learn.

    I use this razor with regular shaving cream (Barbisol) and change the blades every three or four days. A pack of $100 double sided blades will last a year and only cost about $20 on amazon. You will save yourself a couple hundred bucks a year by ditching those expensive cartridges.

    I carry a Mach 3 in my overnight bag and I can tell you that shaving with a safety razor gets you a much closer and significantly more refreshing shave. Every time I travel and have to use the Mach 3, I feel like a have a 5 o'clock shadow at 10 in the morning (and that is with a brand new blade).

    Amazon won't let me buy this because it's less than $25 apparently...
    Since when is that a thing?

    You can still buy it, you just have to pay shipping. They don't offer free shipping unless your entire order is over $25.

     

    I have been using a Braun Series 7 daily for 6 years now. Will never use anything else. It's the only shaver that gets as close as a razor(hard to believe but it's true). Get one and you'll never again have to deal with irritation, cuts, shaving creams, skin lotions, ect.

    "It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with problems longer." - Albert Einstein
     

    Been using a Merkur DE safety razor for about 3 years now. My dad always used an old gillete, so it was just a no brainer to pass on the mainstream cartridge bullshit. I also have a Dovo shavette that I use occasionally. Thinking about upgrading to a real straight edge, but idk about dropping a couple hundred dollars on shaving equipment, between a $150-200 razor, honing stone, and a strop.

     

    Same problem with sensitive skin. I go with the grain. Also, I use a Mach 3 (sometimes disposable blades sometimes disposable razor depending on my mood). I think less blades works better for sensitive skin.

    looking for that pick-me-up to power through an all-nighter?
     
    <span class=keyword_link><a href=/finance-dictionary/what-is-london-interbank-offer-rate-libor>LIBOR</a></span>:
    Same problem with sensitive skin. I go with the grain. Also, I use a Mach 3 (sometimes disposable blades sometimes disposable razor depending on my mood). I think less blades works better for sensitive skin.

    Second the Mach 3 (well the Mach 3 Fusion). I go with the grain and I have very sensitive skin too, seems to work well. The blades seem to irritate me alot less. I use Jack Black beard lube and post shave cooling gel and it works like magic. Highly recommended.

    ‎"Until and unless you discover that money is the root of all good, you ask for your own destruction. When money ceases to become the means by which men deal with one another, then men become the tools of other men. Blood, whips and guns or dollars."
     

    with sensitive skin you're gonna need to resort to one of three tactics (brands and product lines are generally inconsequential, as your skin's the major issue and there's no side stepping that):

    1) nice hot shower with minimum 5 minutes access to hot water and/or steam to properly moisten skin

    2) high quality straight razor blade left to sit in ice cold water for minimum 10 minutes prior to slice-n-dice

    3) electric, yeah it sucks but they're easier on the skin type

     

    I have the same problem. I use fusion blades. Try to shave every other day so the hair doesn't grow out enough to irritate your skin. Definitely shaving after shower is best. I have used to shaving creams/gels and both have worked.

    1. http://www.kingofshavesdirect.com/Alphagel-Shave-Gel-Cooling-Menthol-PU…
    2. http://www.eshave.com/shaving-cream-verbena-lime

    Use a brush for the second kind and lather it on. To get a smooth shave without going against the grain. Shave straight down your face first, relather and then go across your face. (right to left on right side of face, left to right on left side of face). After shaving, wash with cold water and pat dry. Use any good aftershave that is alcohol free. That should do the trick.

     

    Just get adjusted. Dry-Shave with Mach3 or something for 3 weeks, against the grain. And after that you can do anything you want. Don't dry shave if your beard hair is longer than 3mm

    "Make 'Nanas, not war! "
     

    ^ That sounds like a terrible idea. Although I do believe that your skin gets used to shaving. If you are currently shaving every 4 days, try three days for a couple months, then every second day. And then maybe every day, although many people say this isn’t good for you skin anyways.

    I have had a very similar problem and have tried many different products. I found a system that lets me shave every second day across the grain with no discomfort. (first with the grain, then across) Not quite as close as against the grain, but much better than just with the grain.

    Pre shave – Clinique pre shave scrub in the shower (let it sit for a couple min) Shave – Keihls shave cream. This is good stuff. (They also have sensitive skin version) Post – Anthony logistics post shave toner, and post shave shave balm. I also use a two blade razor. Either Gillette Sensor or preferably Gillette Trac 2 (put the blades on a Bump Fighter handle from CVS, cause you can’t find Trac 2 handles anymore).

     

    I shave probably 4 times a week and it always fucks my face up. Im thinking about just buying a set from Anthony Logistics or something and seeing if following each step does the trick

    "You stop being an asshole when it sucks to be you." -IlliniProgrammer "Your grammar made me wish I'd been aborted." -happypantsmcgee
     

    I got Braun 8585 but I think any foil shaver will do the trick. Don't get the rotary blade or whatever it's called, not as close of a shave. Foil shavers are not as close as razor, but the difference is barely perceptible. Also Braun shavers come with a charging and cleaning dock, so it disinfects ur shaver when u r not using it

    More is good, all is better
     

    Use disposable razors that have no more than two blades, they are MUCH easier on the skin than those monsters with 4+ blades and the quality of the shave does not suffer, I don't understand what moron thought having a razor with 5 blades is a good idea.

     
    awm55:
    Use disposable razors that have no more than two blades, they are MUCH easier on the skin than those monsters with 4+ blades and the quality of the shave does not suffer, I don't understand what moron thought having a razor with 5 blades is a good idea.

    One day you'll be able to grow a beard, until then you keep on using those crappy disposables. When i use a disposable it literally feels like it's pulling the hair from my face.

     

    Against the Grain + Gillette Shave Gel + Lab Series Facial Moisturize = win

    I shave every 2 days. I have one of those shower mirrors and I shave in there. The hot water helps your pores open up and soften the whiskers so you don't get razor burn.

    Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis - when I was dead broke man I couldn't picture this
     

    go by your local supermarket and buy one of the braun foil shavers. Try it out for a week, if you don't love it, you can always return it. once you calculate how much you spend on blades and shaving creams in a couple of months, the electric shaver is a cheaper alternative, too. If you don't shave with the razor every day anyways, the electric foil will give you a shave that will at the very least beat the second day look.

    More is good, all is better
     

    Old timer here...

    Here is the deal: I use both - electric and manual because I have a extra sensitive skin

    Note: I shave every two days during the week

    Step 1: Shave using electric and do not go against the hair Step 2: Fusion or whatever good manual razor and do not go against the hair.

    I now use a shaving lotion with Mint and Aloe instead of foam.

    The process is longer but the result is 10x better than traditional shaving.

    "Whenever you feel like criticizing any one...just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had." 'The Great Gatsby' - F. Scott Fitzgerald
     

    Mach 3 is really solid, I find it irritates less and does nearly as good of a job as the Fusion. I've had my blades on my Mach 3 for well over a dozen shaves now and they still work fine.

    As far as the process goes, I always shave while showering. The mirror is overrated in this respect.

    Shaving cream? I use Shiseido's. It was a little awkward at first but works like a charm when you get used to it. (Doesn't build op a thick foam but is rather more oily)

     

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