Straight Razor Shaving
(1) You can shave using 1, 2 3 or even 4 passes to get a superb shave, depending on your time, beard growth and your expertise with a straight razor. Many straight shavers start with a downward pass first, followed by another pass upwards, against the grain.
Only you will be able to decide how many passes you will need, though to start with it is recommended that you start with one single downward pass. This will reduce skin irritation and give you time to observe and learn from the experience.
(2) Complete concentration is absolutely essential during a straight shave until you get used to using a straight razor so, at least at first, use a very gently touch using an angle of approximately 20-30 degrees to the face, take your time and shave without any disruptions.
Later, once you have become competent at straight razor shaving, you will find that each pass will take less time and cause less irritation at the end of the shave.
(3) Avoid at all costs, using a "slicing" action when using a straight razor. In the event of getting a cut or nick, do not panic, and use cold water to clean the area (mid shave is fine), and apply the damp tip of a styptic pencil to the area and allow to dry for a few seconds. Bleeding will usually stop within a few seconds and you can continue with your shave.
(4) Avoid using alcohol-laden products at the end of the shave until your shaving technique and skin sensitivity can handle it. Instead, use products such as Proraso after shave balm, Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera, and other such products that will calm and nourish the skin after a shave.
Allow these skin balms and ointments to dry for a few minutes before applying any aftershave or cologne as this will reduce any unwanted redness afterwards.
If you travel with your straight razor and it doesn't have a case, wrap a rubber band around the instrument a couple of times after you close it, to keep it closed. And don't EVER leave that thing lying around where your little boy can get it; children love to imitate paddy shaving, and emergency calls are expensive.
With a straight razor you can select a single hair that's out of place and cut it off without touching another whisker. A straight razor will make wonderfully straight lines for this job and, with a some practice, trim curves as well.
Straight razor shaving, when performed well, will preserve your face and, in part, the environment. It will also lend you all the benefits of shaving in a traditional way that harks back to a bygone era.
