38 votes

How do you shave?

I’ve been shaving for about five years, and in that time I’ve always been using an electric razor. I’m not sure why, but that was the first way that I learned to shave, and I’d never bothered to try a different tool - until 10 minutes ago, when I shaved with a cartridge razor for the first time.

Oh, my, word. It’s like magic - as if I’m just wiping the hairs off my face. I don’t think I’ll ever go back now, this shave was easier, less messy, and closer, plus since I can easily see where I’ve already been and what I have left to do because of the shaving foam I don’t accidentally miss a patch.

Now I’m wondering, how do other Tilderinos shave, and what has your experience been with different types of razor?

69 comments

  1. [7]
    teaearlgraycold
    Link
    I recently switched from cartridge razors to a double edged safety razor. I avoided all of the expensive BS that has been pushed on me in ads and got a $20 handle and some Astra blades. For me it...

    I recently switched from cartridge razors to a double edged safety razor. I avoided all of the expensive BS that has been pushed on me in ads and got a $20 handle and some Astra blades. For me it is absolutely better in every way. I was a little surprised that I hadn't been lied to. The cost is lower and the result is better. It took a little bit of learning to figure out how to not cut myself. After a few weeks I got down to about as many little cuts as I would with cartridges - maybe one little spot every few shaves.

    My hair is particularly thick and rigid. I've actually found hair trimmings poked into my skin a couple of millimeters (like a hypodermic needle) the morning after a haircut. I would love to be able to shave against the grain but it's not something I think my hair and skin can handle. These days I shave every morning.

    33 votes
    1. [4]
      KakariBlue
      Link Parent
      For anyone else reading this, especially if you've seen different blade manufacturers mentioned and the advice I'm about to repeat, don't necessarily write off this method if the first blade you...

      For anyone else reading this, especially if you've seen different blade manufacturers mentioned and the advice I'm about to repeat, don't necessarily write off this method if the first blade you try doesn't work for you. When it comes to a good shave there's your skill with the razor that will naturally improve and there's the blade. Some people love Feathers, others find they get more nicks, or that they barely last or last forever with a light stropping (jeans/denim work just fine on a budget).

      Once you have some feel for the technique and angles, it's often worth getting a mixed blade pack (usually 1-2 of 5 or 10 different blades) and find one that you like and works with your hair and skill.

      Or just get an electric and skip all the mess and ritual ;) .

      14 votes
      1. CrazyProfessor02
        Link Parent
        The first time that I had used my safety, my face looked like a crime scene (thankfully my skills got better), so that was fun. So even if you get nicked or cut because it was your first time,...

        The first time that I had used my safety, my face looked like a crime scene (thankfully my skills got better), so that was fun.

        So even if you get nicked or cut because it was your first time, please don't give up, there is a learning curve, especially if you come from shaving with a disposable/cartridge razors because they do a lot of the heavy lifting (such as the shaving angle) that safeties don't offer. Like there is the Leaf handles that do that heavy lifting, but they are like $60 USD.

        (By the way, Feathers are considered to be the most aggressive blades that you can get, if you want to get a less aggressive blade, get Derbys or Astras (if you can find them))

        2 votes
      2. [2]
        Jagermo
        Link Parent
        You can get a sample flight of blades to try with a lot of resellers. Great way to find out what you like best

        You can get a sample flight of blades to try with a lot of resellers. Great way to find out what you like best

        1. Matcha
          Link Parent
          That's the best way to figure out the right one. Two of each one that vaguely looks interesting. And do it again if you change handles or heads.

          That's the best way to figure out the right one. Two of each one that vaguely looks interesting. And do it again if you change handles or heads.

    2. Jagermo
      Link Parent
      Same. Way better than any "8 blade laser edge" plastic waste. Simple to use,easy to maintain, cheap blades. Love it

      Same. Way better than any "8 blade laser edge" plastic waste. Simple to use,easy to maintain, cheap blades. Love it

      3 votes
    3. Plik
      Link Parent
      Double edged is the way to go (unless you have a bearsonal beard barber). Electric is the worst. Straight is good, but a massive pain in the ass. 10x triple blade gillete F/A 18 Hornet is stupidly...

      Double edged is the way to go (unless you have a bearsonal beard barber).

      Electric is the worst. Straight is good, but a massive pain in the ass. 10x triple blade gillete F/A 18 Hornet is stupidly expensive when compared to double edged.

      For thicker hair against the grain you need to shave after a hot shower, or go full fancy pants and do the hot water + shaving soap + mug + badger hair brush (or buy one of those old timey but slightly less so shaving cream heated dispensers).

      3 votes
  2. [7]
    smores
    Link
    I’ve used a double edge safety razor for about a decade and I love it. I bought one set of a few hundred blades when I first started and still haven’t run out. I’ve only gone through two tubs of...

    I’ve used a double edge safety razor for about a decade and I love it. I bought one set of a few hundred blades when I first started and still haven’t run out. I’ve only gone through two tubs of shaving soap. It works so, so much better for me than modern cartridge razors, and I can get a much cleaner shave than with most electric razors I’ve tried.

    13 votes
    1. [6]
      teaearlgraycold
      Link Parent
      What’s the deal with shaving soap? I still use canned shaving cream with my safety razor.

      What’s the deal with shaving soap? I still use canned shaving cream with my safety razor.

      1 vote
      1. [2]
        fxgn
        Link Parent
        I highly suggest you try shaving with soap and a brush. It provides a much smoother and wetter lather, and there is a super noticeable difference in the shaving experience if you do it properly.

        I highly suggest you try shaving with soap and a brush. It provides a much smoother and wetter lather, and there is a super noticeable difference in the shaving experience if you do it properly.

        9 votes
        1. teaearlgraycold
          Link Parent
          Okay I overnight shipped some shaving soap equipment and have had a couple chances to test it out. It feels better and it’s a bit easier to get a thin layer which I like. Overall I’d call it a...

          Okay I overnight shipped some shaving soap equipment and have had a couple chances to test it out. It feels better and it’s a bit easier to get a thin layer which I like. Overall I’d call it a marginal improvement.

          1 vote
      2. [2]
        smores
        Link Parent
        Oh! Yeah so shaving soap comes in a little solid puck, and you lather it with a brush (I have a nice vegan synthetic one that’s very soft and gentle) and some water. The result is a really thick,...

        Oh! Yeah so shaving soap comes in a little solid puck, and you lather it with a brush (I have a nice vegan synthetic one that’s very soft and gentle) and some water. The result is a really thick, smooth lather (also much wetter, as @fxgn mentioned) that you brush on with your brush. The act of brushing on the lather can lift your hair and open your pores a bit, but mostly the two things I’d say in favor of soap over canned cream are:

        1. It lasts WAY longer. A good soap basically won’t go bad, and I’ve had my current puck for literally like eight years (I don’t shave very often, so your mileage will vary)
        2. My experience has been that is feels much nicer to shave over than canned shaving cream. It’s denser and wetter, so it protects my face better, in my experience

        When I was walking a friend through all of the traditional parts of safety razor shaving, I described shaving soap as “ both the least necessary and the most expensive section of most wet shavers countertop”, since there are other solutions that plenty of folks are totally fine with, but I do think it’s one of the more fun parts of shaving for me (which I should emphasize, is not something I find particularly fun).

        Happy to make recommendations if you’d like! But if you’re happy with your shaving cream and just want to give it a shot to see if you’d like it more, you can probably get a small soap sample or sample pack and a cheap brush just to get a sense for it.

        5 votes
        1. CrazyProfessor02
          Link Parent
          In regards to shaving soap, at least in my experience, PLEASE AVOID THE REAL CHEAP SOAPS. I don't mean avoid Van Der Hagen (they have some good shaving soaps (they lather up great)), I mean avoid...

          In regards to shaving soap, at least in my experience, PLEASE AVOID THE REAL CHEAP SOAPS. I don't mean avoid Van Der Hagen (they have some good shaving soaps (they lather up great)), I mean avoid the bottom of the barrels, I had to use some soaps that came with my brush and bowl (the only thing that I like about this kit is the brush), the soaps and cream that came with that kit, the soaps were pieces of shit. Like they barely lather up to the point of being usable, I had to reapply it if I don't hurry through my shaving, so I had use more of the soap than I would have liked.

          It lasts WAY longer. A good soap basically won’t go bad, and I’ve had my current puck for literally like eight years (I don’t shave very often, so your mileage will vary)

          My mileage for my soaps I am finding, a few months (~4 months for one). So, a lot longer than the shave gel that I was using. And that is shaving about every other day or every 3-4 days of shaving.

          When I was walking a friend through all of the traditional parts of safety razor shaving,

          Funnily enough, that is how I convinced my brother to switch from a cartridge razor to a safety because he kept complaining about how his razors kept getting clogged because how thick his hair gets.

          5 votes
      3. Plik
        Link Parent
        The short answer is the soap has oils in it that act as a better lubricant. Shaving cream is more of a foam that makes the hairs kinda stand up straighter, but with less lubrication. Also hot...

        The short answer is the soap has oils in it that act as a better lubricant.

        Shaving cream is more of a foam that makes the hairs kinda stand up straighter, but with less lubrication.

        Also hot water + shaving soap is slightly better than cold foam as it softens the hairs.

        2 votes
  3. chromakode
    Link
    After ~20 years using a cartridge and shaving cream, I switched to a OneBlade in 2023. During the pandemic, I gave up my beard for better face mask protection. Wet shaving every few days was...

    After ~20 years using a cartridge and shaving cream, I switched to a OneBlade in 2023. During the pandemic, I gave up my beard for better face mask protection. Wet shaving every few days was getting really tedious.

    I love it! I don't mind at all that it's a less close shave. I prefer the look of a little shadow, and it irritates my face less than razors ever did. It's also way faster than cartridge shaving: much less setup and less time spent rinsing the blade. I haven't noticed a functional difference between shaving wet and dry. It's also more multipurpose than a razor, since you can use it unguarded to square up sideburns, and you can add a guard to trim beards.

    I also like that for travel, it's small and easy to pack, and the battery lasts for weeks. Very similar to an electric toothbrush in this regard. It's also nicely waterproof, so I usually keep it in the shower and let the water rinse the cuttings away. I do have to sometimes fix a couple missed hairs, but on the balance it's been a really nice QOL upgrade!

    8 votes
  4. [9]
    BeardyHat
    Link
    I've tried the different methods and shaving with a razor and cream is pretty nice, but the older I get, the more convenience I want, so I just use an electric if I need to buzz it. That said, I...

    I've tried the different methods and shaving with a razor and cream is pretty nice, but the older I get, the more convenience I want, so I just use an electric if I need to buzz it.

    That said, I maybe trim once every two months or so; I prefer to keep a full beard that is medium length, so I just use a trimmer to shape it on my cheeks and on my neck. The last time I shaved completely was 2020 so that I could have my mask fit properly at the hospital for the birth of my second kid, my face without a beard is.... Unpleasant.

    7 votes
    1. [4]
      vord
      Link Parent
      Another member of the "You Need A Beard" club here. My beard gets super curly after about an inch... great for insulation but diminishing returns for length. I only ever full-shave if there's a...

      Another member of the "You Need A Beard" club here. My beard gets super curly after about an inch... great for insulation but diminishing returns for length. I only ever full-shave if there's a really bad skin irritation or wound.

      About twice a month I edge the perimeter and clean up outliers.

      I do my closest trim (#0) in late April, then do a #1 in mid-July because sweaty, moppy, grassy beards are unpleasant.

      Then one last #1 before the weather gets cold, typically end of September. I typically won't trim at all between November and March. If it becomes too dense and itchy I'll take a #2 to it.

      I'm still using the electric razor I got 20 years ago, no maintainence other than cleaning out hair. Turns out using it 8 times or less a year instead of daily really ups the lifespan.

      2 votes
      1. [3]
        first-must-burn
        Link Parent
        Put little blade oil on that baby and you will be amazed how much of an improvement it is. I have a cheapish Remington trimmer that I was going to replace, but I used the blade oil out of the Wahl...

        Put little blade oil on that baby and you will be amazed how much of an improvement it is. I have a cheapish Remington trimmer that I was going to replace, but I used the blade oil out of the Wahl trimmers I bought to cut my hair during the pandemic (they plug in, so not very convenient for everyday bathroom use), and it was like the Remington was new again. The adjustable blade guard is deteriorating from being dropped so many times, so I may still need to replace it since they don't sell replacement parts.

        2 votes
        1. [2]
          vord
          Link Parent
          Oh yes, I do that after cleaning any metal tool: Droplet of mineral oil. I'd be shocked if the blade oil is anything more, except with a $1/oz markup.

          Oh yes, I do that after cleaning any metal tool: Droplet of mineral oil.

          I'd be shocked if the blade oil is anything more, except with a $1/oz markup.

          1 vote
          1. first-must-burn
            Link Parent
            Yup, I only use the blade oil because a tiny vial that will probably last forever came with the clippers.

            Yup, I only use the blade oil because a tiny vial that will probably last forever came with the clippers.

            1 vote
    2. [4]
      Kind_of_Ben
      (edited )
      Link Parent
      Username checks out!

      I prefer to keep a full beard that is medium length

      Username checks out!

      1. [3]
        BeardyHat
        Link Parent
        You may be shocked to learn that I also wear a baseball cap everyday...

        You may be shocked to learn that I also wear a baseball cap everyday...

        1 vote
        1. [2]
          teaearlgraycold
          Link Parent
          Did you go for the Bald Buff Beard combo?

          Did you go for the Bald Buff Beard combo?

          1. BeardyHat
            Link Parent
            How about: Balding, Chubby, Bearded

            How about:

            Balding, Chubby, Bearded

  5. Markpelly
    Link
    I'm on the electric razor train as well. It's quick and gets a nice close shave for me. I'm not sure what others had for an electric razor but I can get a close shave with it, just need to make...

    I'm on the electric razor train as well. It's quick and gets a nice close shave for me. I'm not sure what others had for an electric razor but I can get a close shave with it, just need to make sure you don't press too hard.

    I had been using Gillette throwaways for a long time but it was too much hassle, and these days i have a beard...so I don't need to shave my entire face.

    My skin is very sensitive so I cannot shave every day. No matter the type of razor I use, shaving every day is a killer on my skin.

    6 votes
  6. thecardguy
    Link
    Sure, I'll go into detail. But it comes down to "saving time vs. closeness" I use cartridge and electric. Cartridge plus gel gets me a very close and smooth shave, and I actually prefer it. But......

    Sure, I'll go into detail. But it comes down to "saving time vs. closeness"

    I use cartridge and electric. Cartridge plus gel gets me a very close and smooth shave, and I actually prefer it. But... my facial hair has to be extremely damp first, and I've never been able to get it to that level without taking a shower first. My shower habits are a different story, but altogether it takes me close to half an hour to shower and fully shave. I have that much time maybe once or twice a week.

    Which brings me to electric shaving. On one hand, because I can electric shave completely dry, it's usually very quick- I can have it finished in less than five minutes. That said... two days or more of electric shaving means I can feel tiny hairs leftover that my shaver isn't clearing. Maybe I really need to clean it after EVERY use? never tried, but not impossible.

    So basically, I prefer cartridge shaving because it's much closer, but extremely time-consuming, whereas electric shaving is quick but ends up leaving me with what i think is called "5 o'clock shadow"

    4 votes
  7. PantsEnvy
    Link
    Daily: Double Edge safety razor with Feather blades and Proraso Shaving Foam. Traveling: Cartridge plus a tube of foam. Feeling Special: Trumper Sandalwood Soft Shaving Cream + Silvertip Badger...

    Daily: Double Edge safety razor with Feather blades and Proraso Shaving Foam.

    Traveling: Cartridge plus a tube of foam.

    Feeling Special: Trumper Sandalwood Soft Shaving Cream + Silvertip Badger Bristle Shaving Brush.

    At some point, you may get frustrated with cartridges. They are expensive to replace, but if you don't replace them often, they become unpleasant. Double Edge razors are significantly cheaper in the long term, but have a huge learning curve. Once you have figured out how to avoid cuts and nicks, there is simply no going back.

    Before going down that path, I suggest you simply try different soaps, creams and foams.

    4 votes
  8. fxgn
    Link
    I'm using a ~$20 safety razor with shaving soap. I ordered a Henson razor since I've heard good things about it and I'm not fully satisfied with my current one, but it's still better than the...

    I'm using a ~$20 safety razor with shaving soap. I ordered a Henson razor since I've heard good things about it and I'm not fully satisfied with my current one, but it's still better than the cartridge razor I used before.

    You're describing a cartridge razor as "swiping haie off your face". With a safety razor, when you get down the technique and find a blade that you like, it feels even more magical - you don't need to apply any pressure, the razor feels like it barely even touches your face, but you still get a nearly perfect shave on the first pass.

    3 votes
  9. ingannilo
    Link
    So this isn't the theme of the conversation, but I don't shave. I used to shave, but I no longer do. When I did, I used cartridge razors. The safety razor craze hadn't kicked off yet, and I had...

    So this isn't the theme of the conversation, but I don't shave. I used to shave, but I no longer do.

    When I did, I used cartridge razors. The safety razor craze hadn't kicked off yet, and I had only ever seen them in old timey movies. They might've led me to tolerate the practice a bit more, but between the cost and my inability to see a point, somewhere in my mid 20s I just said "no mas".

    I have a long beard now, and it's part of my professor shtick. Students know me by it, and it gives my fingers something to do when I'm thinking. I like how it looks mostly, but it does age me. That didn't bug me when I was young, but nowadays I wouldn't mind looking less old.

    However the main things: cost in money, comfort, and time really just cement to me how much I don't care to shave. Plus if I kept a safety razor in my bathroom, my three year old would surely drain all the blood from his body and those of the cats in no time flat. Maybe once he's a little older and has more self preservation instincts I will consider trying one of these hip safety blades.

    But I mostly wanted to comment to encourage people to stop shaving. If your work/partner allow it, it's really freeing to just not give a shit. After a few years you'll have an awesome beard. The hipsters are mostly clean faced now, so you no longer have to worry about that.

    3 votes
  10. carrotflowerr
    Link
    I've used a disposable razors for years but I recently got an electric and it's perfect for me. They're not great at doing a clean shave, but I prefer a bit of shadow. If your face hair grows...

    I've used a disposable razors for years but I recently got an electric and it's perfect for me. They're not great at doing a clean shave, but I prefer a bit of shadow. If your face hair grows really fast and you hate shaving an electric razor might be for you.
    Also,

    • shaving cream/butter is necessary. Please do not dry shave.
    • aftershave, prevents face bumps
    2 votes
  11. Wes
    Link
    I use a cartridge razor as well, specifically the Gillette ProGlide but I expect most are similar. I find it gets pretty close and the swivel is a nice feature. I try to buy cartridges in bulk and...

    I use a cartridge razor as well, specifically the Gillette ProGlide but I expect most are similar. I find it gets pretty close and the swivel is a nice feature. I try to buy cartridges in bulk and use them for quite a bit longer than they recommend. Usually it's fine.

    I shave against the grain on my face, and with the grain on my neck, since that area seems more sensitive to razor burn. If going for a closer shave I may do a second pass against the grain afterwards. I've used both shaving gels and foams for lubrication, and have no real preference.

    I also shave my head, where I use a Wahl clipper. I happily recommend the company as they've twice sent me replacement parts despite my original purchase being ten years old. No questions asked. Clippers can be used for other body hair as well, but need to be oiled occasionally.

    You're probably not to the point of shaving nose hair yet, but I use a waterproof Panasonic nose/ear/hair trimmer. It's small and battery operated. Trust me, you don't want to manually pluck those out with tweezers.

    2 votes
  12. Frinet
    Link
    I’ll add my voice to the chorus of Double Edge Safety Razor users: Razor: Yates Precision Manufacturing Blades: Feather, Blue Iridium, Gillete Super Platinum, or Derby Brush: Edwin Jagger Best...

    I’ll add my voice to the chorus of Double Edge Safety Razor users:
    Razor: Yates Precision Manufacturing
    Blades: Feather, Blue Iridium, Gillete Super Platinum, or Derby
    Brush: Edwin Jagger Best Badger
    Soap: I rotate between Barrister and Mann scents. Recently I’ve been a huge fan of Miur Wood and Le Grand Chypre but I love trying the seasonal scents, they also recently updated their soap base formula to a vegan base. I’ve also used Noble Otter orbit scent and enjoy it a lot.
    Bowl: Depending on how much time I have in the mornings I will either face lather or use a shaving scuttle which keeps the lather warm for when you apply and really enhances the whole experience.

    2 votes
  13. BeanBurrito
    Link
    Electric for everyday shaves, if I am going out or something like that I use one of a pack of disposable razors for a closer shave. I use each one of those several times.

    Electric for everyday shaves, if I am going out or something like that I use one of a pack of disposable razors for a closer shave. I use each one of those several times.

    1 vote
  14. [9]
    tomf
    Link
    I DE wet shave. right now i’m on Shark blades, but I was using Astra Platinum for about a decade. I like a DE shave the most. It’s easy and cheap and you can shave everything in one pass.

    I DE wet shave. right now i’m on Shark blades, but I was using Astra Platinum for about a decade.

    I like a DE shave the most. It’s easy and cheap and you can shave everything in one pass.

    1 vote
    1. [6]
      PigeonDubois
      Link Parent
      You're the first other person I've ever seen who uses Shark blades. I use them in a shavette (single) though.

      You're the first other person I've ever seen who uses Shark blades. I use them in a shavette (single) though.

      1 vote
      1. [5]
        tomf
        Link Parent
        right! there aren’t many of us. i got a mixed bag from tryablade when he was doing that and then got another mixed bag recently. both times i really liked the Shark blades, so i bought 200 of...

        right! there aren’t many of us. i got a mixed bag from tryablade when he was doing that and then got another mixed bag recently. both times i really liked the Shark blades, so i bought 200 of them.

        we should get matching jackets.

        how do you like a shavette? i’ve thought of going down that road, but haven’t.

        1. [4]
          PigeonDubois
          Link Parent
          I also found them through Try a Blade sample packs. I think I bought two or three of them to really give each one a chance. That must have been over 10 years ago. I think I've still got one in the...

          I also found them through Try a Blade sample packs. I think I bought two or three of them to really give each one a chance. That must have been over 10 years ago. I think I've still got one in the back of the bathroom cabinet.

          I love the shavette! I really enjoy the process of single edge shaving, but I was worried about whether I'd be able to keep a proper straight razor sharp enough, so the shavette with disposable blades is a great compromise. My only compliant is that the tolerances around where the blade is held are not great, and hairs start getting stuck in there after a few passes.

          1 vote
          1. [3]
            tomf
            Link Parent
            hm. interesting. my main fear would be slicing the shit out of my face -- haha. I should just get one to give it a swing, though, even just for lining. I miss tryablade. That was such a good...

            hm. interesting. my main fear would be slicing the shit out of my face -- haha. I should just get one to give it a swing, though, even just for lining.

            I miss tryablade. That was such a good service to the community.

            1. [2]
              PigeonDubois
              Link Parent
              Nah there's no worries about slicing yourself as long as you're careful to only ever move the blade perpendicularly. I've cut myself maybe three times over about 12 years.

              Nah there's no worries about slicing yourself as long as you're careful to only ever move the blade perpendicularly. I've cut myself maybe three times over about 12 years.

              1 vote
              1. tomf
                Link Parent
                damn. nice work! I'm gonna pop it on my list. I thought about getting a normal straight, but my metal beard hairs eat through an edge. thanks for this!

                damn. nice work! I'm gonna pop it on my list. I thought about getting a normal straight, but my metal beard hairs eat through an edge. thanks for this!

                1 vote
    2. [2]
      Tardigrade
      Link Parent
      Another DE Shark user here. It just happened to be what I got for free one time and liked it so stuck with it.

      Another DE Shark user here. It just happened to be what I got for free one time and liked it so stuck with it.

      1 vote
      1. tomf
        Link Parent
        nice. I really like them. Nice to find others. I never thought there would be so much difference with something as simple as a razor blade.

        nice. I really like them. Nice to find others. I never thought there would be so much difference with something as simple as a razor blade.

        1 vote
  15. creesch
    Link
    I mostly don't... Shaving, no matter what I try, often irritates my skin. Besides I look much better with a neatly trimmer beard anyway ;) The edges of my beard I just do at the lowest settings of...

    I mostly don't... Shaving, no matter what I try, often irritates my skin. Besides I look much better with a neatly trimmer beard anyway ;)

    The edges of my beard I just do at the lowest settings of my beard trimmer, which effectively shortens it to the same length it will be at the end of the day anyway.

    1 vote
  16. Sheep
    Link
    Electric shaver for everyday shaving because I frankly cannot be bothered to spend too much prep time on it, and I don't think I need a baby face all the time. It's a convenience thing mostly....

    Electric shaver for everyday shaving because I frankly cannot be bothered to spend too much prep time on it, and I don't think I need a baby face all the time. It's a convenience thing mostly.

    Double edged safety razor for when I want to look more slick. Ever since I bought one I never once felt the need to go back to disposable cartridges, the money saved alone is worth it. Takes some time getting used to and I cut myself a lot at first, but it's very much worth it afterwards.

    1 vote
  17. roo1ster
    Link
    I used a 3 blade razor for most of my adult life. I had a Braun foil electric for a couple of years late teens/early 20s. For the last ~8 years I've been using clippers w/the 1 guard to keep my...

    I used a 3 blade razor for most of my adult life. I had a Braun foil electric for a couple of years late teens/early 20s. For the last ~8 years I've been using clippers w/the 1 guard to keep my 'beard' (more of a 5 o'clock shadow) short and just use the clippers w/no guard for my neck and what my wife refers to as weed eating (i've got a few hairs up high on my cheeks). I bought a safety razor about 3 years ago and enjoyed it immensely for about 2 months, but with any kind of razor I end up w/razor burn and pretty much always have an in-grown hair in some visible state of its lifecycle when I use a razor on the regular. If I had to go back to a razor, I'd definitely go w/the safety razor and the fresh blades whenever I want b/c even the 'expensive' ones are < $1.

    Bonus points for the clippers - I can skip a day or 2 and everything still looks tight.

    1 vote
  18. toshi
    Link
    My routine might be controversial, I’ve never heard of anyone else doing this. I’ll take a cartridge (I import Gillette Guard from India - just a simple single razor blade with no gross aloe vera...

    My routine might be controversial, I’ve never heard of anyone else doing this. I’ll take a cartridge (I import Gillette Guard from India - just a simple single razor blade with no gross aloe vera strip) or a DE razor and just shave with it dry. No shaving cream, no rinsing of the face after, nothing. No water is involved at any step of the process, I don’t like the sensation of getting wet. I don’t find shaving dry like this any more irritating than using shaving creams and the like, and the cleanup is super easy. The hairs fall right off the blade. The process is obviously faster than the normal routine, and blades seem to last forever. Since my face is dry I can just hold the cartridge in my fingers instead of attaching it to the handle, which I find gives me better control.

    To trim my goatee I’ll use a small comb as a guard and hack at the excess with a cartridge. I used to use a naked DE blade but I kept getting small cuts in my fingers holding it.

    1 vote
  19. [7]
    TheRTV
    Link
    Not technically shaving, but I use this device called Tweezerman. It's basically a curved spring that you spin to pluck multiple hairs. I was trying to get the cleanest look and this works best...

    Not technically shaving, but I use this device called Tweezerman. It's basically a curved spring that you spin to pluck multiple hairs. I was trying to get the cleanest look and this works best for me. I'm light skinned and have black hair. Anything else just didn't work because the dark roots were so visible. I tried Electric, cartridge, and safety razor. My dad tweezed, so I tried that. Tweezerman cuts the time in half.

    1 vote
    1. [3]
      first-must-burn
      Link Parent
      Does it hurt? I'm glad you found something that works for you, but despite having a model use it in the product video, it still looks like a medieval torture device to me.

      Does it hurt? I'm glad you found something that works for you, but despite having a model use it in the product video, it still looks like a medieval torture device to me.

      2 votes
      1. [2]
        TheRTV
        Link Parent
        Hurts as much tweezing several hairs at once. Not pleasant, but it doesn't bother me too much. I don't need to do it everyday either. Few times a week at most.

        Hurts as much tweezing several hairs at once. Not pleasant, but it doesn't bother me too much. I don't need to do it everyday either. Few times a week at most.

        1 vote
        1. first-must-burn
          Link Parent
          Impressive! You have my respect. I don't think I could make myself go through that.

          Impressive! You have my respect. I don't think I could make myself go through that.

          1 vote
    2. [3]
      ShroudedScribe
      Link Parent
      As another pale skinned guy with black hair, thanks for sharing! This is intriguing but I don't fully understand how it operates. I'll try to look up a video. I will pluck some of my facial hairs...

      As another pale skinned guy with black hair, thanks for sharing! This is intriguing but I don't fully understand how it operates. I'll try to look up a video.

      I will pluck some of my facial hairs fairly frequently, partially because I have a lot of ingrown hairs. I have a goatee but find the hair on my neck (below beard level) to be the most annoying and stubborn.

      I currently use an electric foil razor. My skin is so sensitive that anything else cuts me up, and only a DE will get close enough to make my black hair less noticeable (but obviously still there). But I tried the DE route for a few months, different blades, and just ended up cut up as hell. My sensitive skin is the main issue, I think.

      I found a barber shop here that has membership options, including one that includes grooming. I've considered signing up and getting a shave every 2 days, but I'm too embarrassed to be "that guy" who abuses the membership. (I'd still tip a couple bucks each time though.)

      But yeah, I hate shaving. I'll take a look at this bulk plucker.

      1 vote
      1. [2]
        TheRTV
        Link Parent
        You put the metal spring like part against your skin. You roll the spring using the metal grips and move it across the hairs. As you spin the spring and move the device across your skin, the hairs...

        You put the metal spring like part against your skin. You roll the spring using the metal grips and move it across the hairs. As you spin the spring and move the device across your skin, the hairs will catch and be removed.

        It's not perfect. You'll still need to tweaze, but it will catch a lot of hairs.

        If the barbershop can do a good job and your willing to pay the membership + tips, then go for it. I'm sure they're happy to have regulars, assuming you tip right.

        1 vote
        1. ShroudedScribe
          Link Parent
          I think the next time I go for a cut (which is all I did last time) I'll do a "groom" (aka shave) as well. The person who did my cut did a great job, but didn't seem like she would be interested...

          If the barbershop can do a good job and your willing to pay the membership + tips, then go for it. I'm sure they're happy to have regulars, assuming you tip right.

          I think the next time I go for a cut (which is all I did last time) I'll do a "groom" (aka shave) as well. The person who did my cut did a great job, but didn't seem like she would be interested in seeing me frequently when I asked about frequency of visits with the membership lol. So maybe I'll vibe better with someone else next time and it'll work out.

          I just actively worry about inconveniencing other people. /:

          1 vote
  20. first-must-burn
    Link
    I keep a full beard and mustache. My hair is very stiff and wiry, so individual hairs will stick straight out when it gets more than half an inch long. I trim it once every week or two using a...

    I keep a full beard and mustache. My hair is very stiff and wiry, so individual hairs will stick straight out when it gets more than half an inch long. I trim it once every week or two using a cheapish Remington cordless trimmer. It also has an attachment for nose and ear hair trimming. I had a colleague years ago who didn't trim their nose hair (and needed to), and it has made me paranoid ever since.

    I shave my neck and cheeks every day or two with a Gillette mach 3 in the shower.

    Buying the Mach 3 cartridges bugs me, but in bulk it is okay, especially because one cartridge will last me a month or more. I've tried cheaper varieties and not liked them, but the Mach 3 is what I started shaving with as a teenager, so it might just be a habit. I also tried the OneBlade and various electrics and like the results of any of them. Mainly because the shave was not very close.

    You can strop the Mach 3 blades by rubbing them backwards on the heel of your hand to make them last longer.

    By happy accident, a while back, the store was out of my usual Gillette sensitive shaving cream, and I got a can of Barbasol Sensitive because I was completely out at home. It makes a much nicer foam.

    One plus to this setup is that my travel kit can hold a complete copy of everything, so there's no packing for travel and forgetting something. (The exception is the trimmers, but I usually trim right before I leave and am rarely gone long enough to need to pack it).

    1 vote
  21. devilized
    Link
    I typically use a double-edge safety razor (for the past decade or so). I started with a cheap one, and once I got the hang of it, moved to a very nice one (Rockwell 6s). There's a bit of a...

    I typically use a double-edge safety razor (for the past decade or so). I started with a cheap one, and once I got the hang of it, moved to a very nice one (Rockwell 6s). There's a bit of a learning curve, and you have to find out which blade works best for you, but once you get through that, it's nice paying $20 for a 3-4 year supply of blades. It can, however, be a bit of a rabbit hole for some people who get sucked into it as a hobby and buy lots of handles, brushes, soaps, etc. but I keep it pretty simple.

    I still use a cartridge razor when I travel because you can't carry DE blades onto an airplane, but that's about the only time.

    1 vote
  22. NomadicCoder
    Link
    Another double edge safety razor shaver here (my neck and the stray hairs on my upper cheeks, I have a full beard) I bought a nice $25 or so adjustable “aggressiveness” handle and a packet of...

    Another double edge safety razor shaver here (my neck and the stray hairs on my upper cheeks, I have a full beard)

    I bought a nice $25 or so adjustable “aggressiveness” handle and a packet of blade samples. Different blades work better for different beards/skin/handles, so worth trying a few brands and the buy your favorite. They’re super cheap. I’ve been using this for about 15 years now and find it to be far superior to disposables or electric.

    1 vote
  23. Notcoffeetable
    Link
    I used a straight razor for a long time. I liked it a lot. Then I started shaving my head and didn't want to use a straight razor for that so switched to a standard Gillette Mach 3 razor. I buy...

    I used a straight razor for a long time. I liked it a lot. Then I started shaving my head and didn't want to use a straight razor for that so switched to a standard Gillette Mach 3 razor. I buy refills at Target for substantially cheaper than the name brand. One blade lasts me quite a while since I shave my head almost daily (skip on the weekends). Since I already have it I use it to clean up my neck as well.

    I like the Cremo brand shaving cream. A tube lasts a long time, need very little to get my whole head.

    For my beard I use electric clippers, when I'm lazy I use it without a guard and freehand it. Other times I'll use multiple sizes to get a consistent tapered shape. Then I clean up a bit with some beard scissors.

    1 vote
  24. [3]
    knocklessmonster
    (edited )
    Link
    I use the Leaf Twig. It's a single blade razor that uses a split DE blade and shave my head and neck with one blade. I buy shark singles to load into it. It's the best way I've found to shave...

    I use the Leaf Twig. It's a single blade razor that uses a split DE blade and shave my head and neck with one blade. I buy shark singles to load into it. It's the best way I've found to shave after DEs, electrics, even the flagship Leaf which takes 3 single blades and would happily recommend.

    EDIT: I should mention soap, I've used a bunch of different ones, but now just use Arko, a Turkish brand that's easy to get on Ebay, because I like it. It smells like limonene, but is my favorite soap. I pack it into a deodorant container and use my decade-old Omega boar bristle brush with it.

    1. [2]
      mat
      Link Parent
      Seconded on the Leaf single blade razors. I prefer the Thorn, which is a little more aggressive, but my wife inherited my Twig and loves it. I usually shave with the Thorn sans mirror in the bath,...

      Seconded on the Leaf single blade razors. I prefer the Thorn, which is a little more aggressive, but my wife inherited my Twig and loves it. I usually shave with the Thorn sans mirror in the bath, and almost never cut myself.

      The Thorn is the best razor I've ever owned. It's not the closest shave (that would be a Feather straight razor) - but it's a pretty great combination of affordable, close, easy to use, comfortable and minimal hassle. Also it comes in some cool colours.

      1. knocklessmonster
        Link Parent
        I have the Feather kamisori and it's great! I'd intended to use it on my head, and even did for a couple weeks, then a 4mm nick that bled like a stuck pig (and left a scar) at the crown of my head...

        I have the Feather kamisori and it's great! I'd intended to use it on my head, and even did for a couple weeks, then a 4mm nick that bled like a stuck pig (and left a scar) at the crown of my head pushed me back to my Leaf. The Twig was bought at launch and I loved it.

        I've considered the Thorn but don't feel the need to improve on perfection. If I've neglected my head I'll pack two blades in the Leaf, though.

        2 votes
  25. Eji1700
    Link
    I've kinda got a tiered list depending on available time because I just don't have enough of a routine these days. Ideally, I do like doing a proper shave with a double edged razor. I have a...

    I've kinda got a tiered list depending on available time because I just don't have enough of a routine these days.

    Ideally, I do like doing a proper shave with a double edged razor. I have a niceish one, but my technique is still lousy and I'm still trying to find better blades/soaps to see if it will help with my shave (I think I just need to use feathers but i'm branching out).

    That said my schedule/time/planning skills don't always allow for that, so I have a few fallbacks. Mostly using something like Cremo in the shower with my double sideded to quickly get things under control and then cleaning up with a disposable, or using an electric and cleaning up with a disposable.

    I don't love disposables, but for situations where I just don't have the time or the will to do a better job, they're nice, and they also help me slow down with the double sided razors because I know if I do miss a tricky spot I can just clean it up with a cheap disposable.

    Further they last FOREVER for light use like this, so I buy a new box at costco once every few years and am done with it.

  26. CrazyProfessor02
    Link
    As my previous comments on here had pointed to, I use a DE razor handle from Viking Blade and Derby razors for the blade part, with Van Der Hagen soap for the shave soap. I had used cartridge...

    As my previous comments on here had pointed to, I use a DE razor handle from Viking Blade and Derby razors for the blade part, with Van Der Hagen soap for the shave soap. I had used cartridge razors and disposable razors with some electric razor thrown in for good measure. But the DE razor is by far the greatest shave that I get.

    Before Mat Patt retired from his channels, he did a video about shaving on his Fashion Theory and they had ran some numbers about the average cost that the different shaving methods have through out a life time of shaving. They had found that DE shaving is the cheapest option, beating every other shaving method, including the "cheap" disposables.

  27. [4]
    Deely
    (edited )
    Link
    I never liked shaving so for the last 20 years Im using hair clipper on minimum lenght to trim the beard and mustache. Heh, maybe Im just lazy a bit. Speaking of shaving, do anyone know electric...

    I never liked shaving so for the last 20 years Im using hair clipper on minimum lenght to trim the beard and mustache. Heh, maybe Im just lazy a bit.

    Speaking of shaving, do anyone know electric razor for shaving that never twitch hairs? My son is special need kid, I tried a few (Braun, Wahl), but everytime it hurt a bit, so no luck..

    1. ShroudedScribe
      Link Parent
      Are you trying rotary electric razors or foil electric razors? I use a foil one, and have for many years now, and am fairly aggressive with it and I can only count the number of times I've bled...

      Are you trying rotary electric razors or foil electric razors? I use a foil one, and have for many years now, and am fairly aggressive with it and I can only count the number of times I've bled using it on one hand.

      Usually those bleeds are from going over acne or something as well.

      2 votes
    2. [2]
      smores
      Link Parent
      Have you tried using a beard trimmer, rather than an electric razor, for your son? You won’t get as close of a shave, of course, but I’ve never felt my trimmer twitch/pull a hair (I have this...

      Have you tried using a beard trimmer, rather than an electric razor, for your son? You won’t get as close of a shave, of course, but I’ve never felt my trimmer twitch/pull a hair (I have this Philips one). I sometimes use it without a guard when I’m in a rush and wish I had shaved.

      1 vote
      1. Deely
        Link Parent
        Hi, yes, trimmer works just fine, my only small issue is that its a trimmer, so shaving takes longer time. Generally speaking Im just curious is there electric razors that do not pull hair.

        Hi, yes, trimmer works just fine, my only small issue is that its a trimmer, so shaving takes longer time. Generally speaking Im just curious is there electric razors that do not pull hair.

  28. Plik
    Link
    Beard trimmer for beard + double edged razors for neck. Hot water and soap (or even conditioner/shampoo) for a closer neck shave after/during showering.

    Beard trimmer for beard + double edged razors for neck. Hot water and soap (or even conditioner/shampoo) for a closer neck shave after/during showering.

  29. JamaicanSpiderman
    Link
    I usually just use the standard clippers like what most barbers use. I am bald and I therefore shave my head regularly and I also shave my chest for me to make note of any improvements from...

    I usually just use the standard clippers like what most barbers use. I am bald and I therefore shave my head regularly and I also shave my chest for me to make note of any improvements from working out.

  30. Not_Enough_Gravitas
    Link
    I look like a dingus/thumb without a beard so I maintain a short one with a norelco electric razor.

    I look like a dingus/thumb without a beard so I maintain a short one with a norelco electric razor.