Thread: Both hands shaving necessary?

I shaved with my left hand only for about the first 3 months when I started wet shaving. There were spots that I could not get the correct angle on my neck. I tried various grips on the straight before eventually giving in to using my right hand as well. After a couple weeks I was confident in my non-dominant hand and do not think I could shave with a straight without using both now.

I still only use my left for lathering and DE shaves.

I had to train myself to use both hands. With a DE, using one hand worked fine. It was just OK with a straight.

After all of these years, I don't think that I could shave both sides with my 'off' hand. It's trained but still not the most coordinated.

I've also noticed that my 'off' hand is on the same side as my 'off' eye. I believe that contributes to some of the challenges that I experience getting a shave as close on that side as I do on the dominant side.

Totally depends on what you prefer. Lots of examples of shavers who do either. I prefer both hands, and I use both hands no matter which type of razor I use, to keep in practice and familiar with doing so. Which is better? The one that works and feels right for you. MHO.
Welcome to the world of the straight razor. I hope you find it as fabulous as i have.

I recommend learning two handed shaving at first. Since you're new, it's going to feel awkward no matter which approach you use, so you might as well learn both hands while you're early in the learning curve. I learned both hands, then one hand starting with my non-dominate hand. This way, if I injure a arm, I still can shave.

Hey, that's a great idea!
I think I'll practice with my shavette! Thanks a lot for the tip, Jimmy

I admit at first I was using my left hand bugged me. It felt awkward and super un natural an in the mirror it confused me, but now after taking my time it doesn't bother me a bit. I will admit I suffered some learning marks but using only one hand didn't seem to work for me. Its your shave enjoy it how you can and do what is comfortable : ) shave on and enjoy

Originally Posted by UKRob

Interestingly, I've never seen any videos where a barber changes hands.

I don't think it would be necessary for a barber to switch hands.

I use both hands shaving it makes it easier. It takes some getting use to. Just go slow and watch your angles. I am much more confident with my dominant hand and use it as much as I can. Using your off hand is a worthwhile skill to develop.

I started using the second hand after shaving for a while and found it gave better access to some areas and allows different angles. It does take getting used to but after a while it seems unusual to use the dominant hand on the whole face now.

A barber only needs one hand because he can move around you head to get any angle they wish. That is why two hands makes it easier to get angles the dominant hand just can't do

Appreciate all the kind advices, guys

I switch hands, shaving the right side of my face with my right hand and vise versa. It helps me to better get to some of the tougher areas like my jawline and chin region. Shaving with my non dominate hand was never considered until I went down this path, but I think it was well worth the effort