Clark Kent
02-17-2007, 08:17 AM
I've found from my own experience and the writings of others, that one of the most common problems afflicting new shavers is OverShaving: Taking too many passes or going over the same spot repeatedly and compounded by not approaching from different angles if the same spot is repeated.
I find that you really need to minimize your passes whenever you begin DE shaving; switch to a new DE, or a new blade brand or style.
When I started, I struggled so hard for that consistent BBS shave that I actually put enough heavy nicks on my face to ruin the experience of my shave and to make matters worse, some of these nicks were so bad I would reopen them the next day. This overshaving really hurt my technique and my progress. I encountered the same problem when I switched to a slant, with my upgrade to a Derby blade and I've done it with the Feather as well.
Whether you're starting out with a new product or are new to wetshaving entirely, Shave, but don't punish your face. Early on, 2 passes can be best for most people. It lets your face adjust to the razor or blade and prevents some nasty cuts that can be reopened. In addition, it reduces Shaving Anxiety; when you grow fearful of a particular spot or product. This fear can produce hesitation and poor technique, which will result in even more nicks and cuts. Also too many nicks and cuts is very discouraging and can soil your experience. It does for me. There is no shame in not attaining a BBS shave every time or even skipping entirely a particularly raw or tender spot. Also never forget proper preparation, it is a much a key to a good shave as the actual shaving process, possibly more so.
Myself and many others here wetshave as much for a close shave as we do for the pleasurable experience of the shave itself. Overdoing it won't make your shave more fun and I can bet even with a light DE shave you'll still have the closest shave around. Don't beat yourself up. It's your face; protect it. It's your time; enjoy it.
A BBS Shave is a wonderful thing and the ultimate goal of most wetshavers, but don't sacrifice the health of your face or your experience for closeness. A comfortable shave really is the best thing. You have to crawl before you can walk. And by taking it slow from the beginning before you know it you'll be running and running with a close, comfortable BBS Shave.
Good luck and Good Shaves to Everyone.
I find that you really need to minimize your passes whenever you begin DE shaving; switch to a new DE, or a new blade brand or style.
When I started, I struggled so hard for that consistent BBS shave that I actually put enough heavy nicks on my face to ruin the experience of my shave and to make matters worse, some of these nicks were so bad I would reopen them the next day. This overshaving really hurt my technique and my progress. I encountered the same problem when I switched to a slant, with my upgrade to a Derby blade and I've done it with the Feather as well.
Whether you're starting out with a new product or are new to wetshaving entirely, Shave, but don't punish your face. Early on, 2 passes can be best for most people. It lets your face adjust to the razor or blade and prevents some nasty cuts that can be reopened. In addition, it reduces Shaving Anxiety; when you grow fearful of a particular spot or product. This fear can produce hesitation and poor technique, which will result in even more nicks and cuts. Also too many nicks and cuts is very discouraging and can soil your experience. It does for me. There is no shame in not attaining a BBS shave every time or even skipping entirely a particularly raw or tender spot. Also never forget proper preparation, it is a much a key to a good shave as the actual shaving process, possibly more so.
Myself and many others here wetshave as much for a close shave as we do for the pleasurable experience of the shave itself. Overdoing it won't make your shave more fun and I can bet even with a light DE shave you'll still have the closest shave around. Don't beat yourself up. It's your face; protect it. It's your time; enjoy it.
A BBS Shave is a wonderful thing and the ultimate goal of most wetshavers, but don't sacrifice the health of your face or your experience for closeness. A comfortable shave really is the best thing. You have to crawl before you can walk. And by taking it slow from the beginning before you know it you'll be running and running with a close, comfortable BBS Shave.
Good luck and Good Shaves to Everyone.