Thread: First Shave

Well I did it, I attempted my first shave with a vintage razor purchased on this board. The razor came shave ready so I didn't strop it. Everything went well due to me taking my time and remembering all the advice on these forums. I believe my prep made the difference and prevented any nicks or cuts. During my shower I had been soaking my brush in hot water as well as my soap cake. I then used a hot towel on my face to open those pores even more. I took a little baby oil and used that as my pre shave oil rub. I then prepared my lather in a lather bowl until I got the perfect mixture. After working that badger brush on my face and massaging those whiskers It was time. As the blade touched my face I concentrated on my 30% angle going off the visual as well as the feel on my skin. I began small strokes gaining confidence with each one. I ended up doing my whole face WTG as my confidence and technique were working as one. The only part of the shave that was awkward was when I switched to my left hand. I felt more comfortable using my right hand for the rest of the shave. I hope this is not a bad habit to get into but my coordination is much better and safer using my dominant hand throughout the shave. The best advice I learned on this site is to be patient and take it slow.

Sounds like a beautiful first shave! Congratulations!!! Good for you for doing your homework, and taking your time.

One word on using the off hand. It will, of course, take time to get near the level of your dominant hand. If you use it for other smaller things throughout the day your nervous system will begin laying down better connections and the coordination will come faster. It is really nice to develop off hand coordinatin though, since it gives you so many more options of approach when shaving.

You did well Congrats on your first "real" shave in your life!!

Congrats on your first shave..sounds like it was a good one. Nothing wrong with using your dominant hand for the whole shave but as said allready using both hands gives more options..it takes time to adapt but i've found that I get a better shave from my non-dominant hand as I use less pressure.

Caddy, big 'Grats!

I wish my first attempt was that good. 'Very well done!! You're gonna do fine.

Great first shave and much better and smarter than my first straight shave.

Pabster