How do you shave (your face)??

[Abstract]

Hey,

I just read somewhere that American (I'm assuming all of North America) men generally don't know how to shave their face properly. Read something about it being a lost art.

Anyway, I taught myself how to shave, since I didn't really talk to my dad after I was 12 or so. I started shaving at 12, didn't know why I kept cutting myself, learned, and kept on going from there. How do you shave? Most people just learn it on their own, but I wanna hear how you do it.

Do you all shave against the grain (ie: up) like I do? I can't really seem to shave close enough to the skin unless I shave up on the neck, my chin, and even the bit under my nose. I always do it like this, but it doesn't sound "proper." It works well, but I hear its not right.

Anyone have any thoughts on this?

[jxyama]

kinda funny topic.

to me, the key is to shave after a shower - you get a much nicer shave after your face's been wet.

i usually use electric but once in a while, i bother using a razor. using sharp razor is crucial - this is one area where paying more for a good set of blades really pay off. disposables aren't very good, in general. (of course, if you can shave with a straight blade, more power to you...)

i know "beauty" types argue against going against the grain, but like you said, i never get a very close shave going with the grain. if i get a shave at a barber, they shave against the grain too...

[jimsowden]

I started shaving recently. All physics point to shaving against the grain giving a closer cut, but i switched to with the grain and havn't looked back. It depends on how thick the hair is, and what your face is used to.

[mashinhead]

i always shave after a shower too, it gives a better shave, lifts hair and opens pours. Gives a closer shave. Cos my beard is dark and thick, i always use a razor, never an electric, i look like an idiot if i use one. Then i shave once with the grain, reapply shave gel, and once again against the grain. I would either do that or only with the grain if i were you. But i don't recommend only against the grain. whenever i've done it, it makes it grow funny an makes it painful.

[yellow]

I always shave with a razor. I haven't used an electric since 1988. How/what direction you shave is different for everyone, and different for parts of your face.

For me, I can go with/against the grain everywhere on my face except around my mouth and chin. I have a lot of problems with ingrown hairs and sensitive skin. For those areas, if I don't go with the grain, I'll have what looks like pimples a day later. As others have attested to, shaving AFTER a shower is key. I also find that if I lather up with shaving gel and leave it on for a few minutes before I shave, it further softens my facial hair and makes it even easier to get a close shave.

Edit: I've been an avid user of the Mach3 since it came out. It always gives me a close shave with a minimum of nicks. No razor burn either.

[kgarner]

I'm lazy and just use a Norelco. But always after a shower. 1-2 minutes and I am done.

[AmigoMac]

...

Sometime just the mustache and when the rest of my face looks ugly :p then I remove all along the hair, but if I go to a meeting, a very special one ;) then against the hair... I will look 3-4 years younger :cool: ...

[keysersoze]

I'm lazy and just use a Norelco. But always after a shower. 1-2 minutes and I am done.

Electric's just can't handle neck hair. I tried the Mach 3. It sucks...always left me with razor burn. I've found I like th disposable Schick's the best... toss em after a couple of uses and are cheaper then Mach 3 cartridges. As for shaving against the grain--- NEVER do that. The fewer number of strokes the better. Avoids razor burn and nicks. :)

[aloofman]

I usually use an electric, but I sometimes have to skip a day because it's still hard on my face. My neck has hairs that seem to go in different directions, so even when I go with the grain on most hairs, some are still against the grain. I've tried many, many variations that would enable me to shave every morning, but if I don't skip a day or two each week, then the irritation never goes away.

I often use a blade once a week when I need a close shave. The Sensor 3 is a pretty good blade, not nearly as many nicks as in the past. And the others are right about taking a shower first. It's the moisture that helps lift the hairs away from the skin and reduce ingrown hairs. And I agree with the other suggestion about leaving the shave gel on for a few minutes first. It helps soften the skin even more.

I use an aloe gel afterward to reduce irritation. I pretty much only use aftershaves for fragrance, and even then only on certain occasions. I find the alcohol in them completely inappropriate for newly-shaved skin.

[rainman::|:|]

i shave down my upper lip, and up everywhere else... i know it's against the grain, but it's the only way to get it good and close. I think the blanket rule "always shave with the grain" is wrong, it's different for everybody. I'm unique in that I don't shave with shaving cream, i do it in the shower with just water... it's a habit i picked up before i dropped out of college, it's fast and simple.

Mach 3 is by far my favorite, so long as the blade is sharp, i never get razor burn, even without cream. The biggest problem I see with guys is that they don't replace the blade often enough... the blades will dull and warp after just a few days, i usually swap weekly or more.

Not a huge fan of electric, just because it leaves so much behind. But i haven't tried any of the newer ones on the market, and the convenience factor would definitely make me buy one... i could shave in my car :D

I wish there was a way to test out electric razors before you decide on one...

paul

[Badradio]

Me, I shower after I shave as it's the only way to get all of the blood off. My beard grows in all directions so I can't help but shave against the grain, and more often than not I end up bleeding like a stuck pig. Gotta get me an electric doodad; just really worried about packing one in my hand luggage after watching Fight Club.

[agreenster]

I just switched to electric and I love it. I used to be an avid "in-the-shower, with grain-first, then second lather against grain" type shaver. I got a super close shave, no irritation, and the water always helped to keep things soft. Problem was, however, I would shave so close that I'd get ingrown hairs all the time.

Now, I use electric which doesnt get nearly as close, but I havent had one ingrown since. That's the deal-maker for me.

[superninjagoat]

Norelco has been my savior. I used to only shave every second to third day, less my face look like a plucked chicken -- so many bumps. I'd used one of those microscreen things, but it bit me. I bled for an hour. I said I'd never use an electric again, but my wife got me one. Not wanting to be mean, I used it. Never been cut, and I can shave twice a day if I want to.

[Jovian9]

I use gel and shave with the grain.
Rinse.
Use gel and shave against the grain.
Rinse.
Shower.

This method has proved to give me the closest shave I can possible get.....while showering eliminates the occasional cuts and burns. I only use electric razors if I need a quick trim of my facial hair so that it's not too out of hand (but those definitely do not give me a close shave).

[Thomas Veil]

Used to shave after a shower, but I switched to in the shower, for several reasons:


my face is nice and moist
it's way easy to rinse
if there are any nicks, the bleeding's stopped by the time I'm done
no mess to clean up around the sink

And I shave up, against the grain.

[yellow]

I wish there was a way to test out electric razors before you decide on one..

I completely second this.. I too haven't tried an electric in 15+ years, I imagine they've gotten slightly more sophisticated by now :)

[Laslo Panaflex]

I shave in the shower, with no lather, with no mirror, and against the grain.

I hate electrics, they don't get close at all.

[jsw]

I also shave in the shower, with no lather or mirror. I get my face wet first thing, then shave at the end - works best for me. Saves time over separate shower/shave, and makes for a cleaner sink.

I shave against the grain below the jaw line, and with it above - i.e., I always shave towards my jaw line.

[Daveman Deluxe]

I have a beard, but I shave my neck and my cheeks above the beard. On the cheeks I shave against the grain, and also on the sides of my neck, but directly beneath my mouth I have to shave across the grain because otherwise I cut myself every time around there.

[Neserk]

I shave against the grain, in the shower, with soap and hot water. Oh, I don't shave my face... I shave my legs and arm pits :p Armpits are tricky because the hair grows in 4 different directions :rolleyes: Who's bright idea was that?

[yellow]

I rather surprised no one has weighed in with the obligatory "I'm so tough, I shave with a piece of broken glass over a puddle in an alley" post yet..

[Angelus]

I too taught myself how to shave at the age of around 13. I'll normally remove the bulk of facial hair by following the grain initially, then follow by going against the grain to get a really close shave. Been wet shaving for the past 7 years but this month decided to switch to an electric cause we start our hospital rotations this oct and i'll need to be respectable each morning(normally just shave every three to four days). This could be done with a razor but it's time consuming and blades are VERY expensive here in Ireland. I bought the phillishave 8894. So far i'm really pleased with it cos it gives a shave thats almost as close as my mach3 and it also has a Li-ion battery that gives 100 min cordless shaving time. Also has a very cool polyLED display

[strider42]

I completely second this.. I too haven't tried an electric in 15+ years, I imagine they've gotten slightly more sophisticated by now :)

the key with electrics I've found is you need to shave every single day. I tend to go a few days and get "scruffy" looking, so by the time I come back to shave with the electric, it doesn't do as good a job. your face needs to adjust to an electric a bit, and they don't work well with longer hair in my experience. Sometimes I use the electric to get most of it, and then quickly do a few strokes with a blade to get the strays on the neck that are hard to get because they go in every whcih direction and around the throat is just hard to get them all.

When I let it get too long, I'll use a regular blade, preferably a mach 3. They really are the best I've tried. I alway go with the grain first to get rid of the longer stuff, then against to get the close shave. Shaving purely against the grain leads to a lot of cuts. I used to use a blade exclusively, but my skin is kind of sensitive and I break out and get razor burn from blades, so I use my electric most of the time. I'm thinking of getting a new electric. mine is OK, but I dind't want to spend a lot of money, so I went for price/performance and I'm starting to think maybe performance is more important and I should lean in that direction.

For those electric users, do you prefer the rotary kind or the traditional kind. I used a traditional kind right now. I tried a rotary a long time ago and it kind of hurt, but I probably had let it get too long then.

[comictimes]

Just for yellow :p

You guys are all wimps. I rip rusting beer cans apart, then use the edges to shave, with a pool of mercury from a broken thermometer as my mirror.
:D

hehe.. always fun. I actually just do basically the exact same thing as jsw.

[Abstract]

Well yeah, I shave in the shower as well, against the grain. But why are several people saying things like, "NEVER shave against the grain," or, "If you shave against the grain, make sure you shave with the grain as well"?? What's so bad about shaving against the grain?

Shaving in the shower obviously has it's benefits, but I heard that its not actually the best way of getting a close shave. If you check your face in 30 minutes, you'll find that it wasn't as close as before. Its because when your face is wet, it absorbs moisture and puffs up a bit. Then you shave. When the puffing goes down, uncut hair is exposed.

Interesting to see all the variations and beliefs about shaving there are. :)

I didn't notice until now that my facial hair grows down, and not "in all different directions". If it grows downwards, do I shave with the grain or against? Why not shave against the grain, and what does an "ingrown hair" look like?

[Neserk]

, and what does an "ingrown hair" look like?

It is a hair that has grown under the surface of the skin but not though it. If you check out your calves you'll probably find a feww. Usually you have to carefully pull them out with tweezers by gently scraping away some of the skin that is over top of them. Just don't do it right before a date :p

[EminenceGrise]

I rather surprised no one has weighed in with the obligatory "I'm so tough, I shave with a piece of broken glass over a puddle in an alley" post yet..

Real men don't need a puddle. :)

[hanoonoo]

Just to add another dimension to the conversation: shaving with a razor when you have chronic eczema is interesting. Can't use gel/foam so I use a thick layer of the waxy emollient I normally use to moisturise my face and shave that off (against the grain ;) ) Can get very interesting when it becomes inflamed...

[yellow]

Real men don't need a puddle. :)

Then how do I ensure that my van dyke (http://employees.oneonta.edu/angellkg/2-78.jpg) beard is at it's dykiest?

[bousozoku]

Having black hair, I've tried various methods and products and finally have found something that works for me and remains okay through most of the day.

Initially, I use a Braun foil-equipped shaver. Philips/Norelco triple head shavers don't work for me at all. I tend to get the upper lip and chin much more easily without cutting myself (usually) this way.

After that, I wash with Psioderm, then apply shaving gel and use a Mach3, pointing it in whatever direction works. I'm not saying the Mach3 is all that great but I used to use Shick Protector and that's dead now.

[5300cs]

I wish there was a way to test out electric razors before you decide on one...

Ugh, as if people didn't do that already :rolleyes: nothing worse than picking up a display model and having someone elses wiskers come out. (It happened to me once at Brookstones with a nose-hair trimmer :mad: )

My friend did a parody of shaving a while back: Shaving for men (http://sixsixfive.com/643.html) It still makes me laugh

[virividox]

with a cuthroat razor :) at least thats what i want to learn to use hehe

[Neserk]

(It happened to me once at Brookstones with a nose-hair trimmer :mad: )




EWWW

[wdlove]

I tried a safety razor, but kept cutting myself. Ouch and bleed. :(

I use a triple head Norelco, works about the best of any that I've tried. Still not completely happy, difficulty with my neck on the right side.

[oldschool]

I watched my italian barber shave a customer and it seems to be the best way.

For shaving cream and aftershave cream I use Proraso (http://www.trafalgarshop.com/catalog/category_277_Proraso_page_1.html) (Italy's Number 1 shaving product :p). It is a eucalyptus based product and seems to soften the beard, stop bleeding, and reduce redness.

After showering, I start by turning the tap on very hot (as hot as i can stand it) and using face cloths to apply hot compresses to my face. I do this for maybe 2 minutes. Then I put the shaving cream on, and allow it to stand for a few minutes. Then I leave the tap on hot, rinse the razor, and shave. I keep rinsing the razor so it stays wet and hot.

If i'm not in a rush i'll let the shaving cream stand, apply hot compresses OVER the shaving cream, then rinse my face and apply more shaving cream, then shave. The barber does this, and it does really give you a good shave, but it takes a bit longer.

The main idea is letting the shaving cream stand.

I also only use gilette sensor excel blades. Mach 3 doesn't seem to work for me, but i know that many people like it.

[Wyvernspirit]

I didn't have a male figure to tech me how to shave so I had to learn on my own.

What seems to work for me is this: I usually use a Mach3 in the shower. I go with the grain on my right side of the face and against the grain on my left. Why? Well if I do the reverse, nothing seems to get cut. Don't know why but this works for me. As for my necj I actually do it twice. Once up toward the jaw line then again from the jaw line. If I don't do it this way I don't get all the hair. I do once in a while get in ingrwon hair, mostly around my chin. I usually can just pull it out.

I have used electric (have one two) and it works fine if you use it everyday. I don't like to shave everyday so I usually end up with some sort of growth when I shave (My facial hair grows very slowly and kind of spotty).

The best razor I have found as of yet is the Mach3. The worst, the new old spice razor. By the time I had finished shaving I had at least a half dozen cuts and a pretty bad shave (couldn't get all the hair off). I do not recommend it in the least.

I would say experiment with what works for your face. You need to find what feels the most comfortable, gives you the best shave, and allows you to do it when you want/can. Or maybe you could just let it grow.

[Hemingray]

I shaved with an electric razor for years until it died... then I switched to a regular razor. I go with the grain, mainly because I don't have enough time, and I like keeping a little stubble. If I really want a close shave, I go with the grain and then against the grain. That gets everything.

What I'd REALLY like to learn someday is how to shave with a straight razor... now THERE'S a dying art.

[hulugu]

I rather surprised no one has weighed in with the obligatory "I'm so tough, I shave with a piece of broken glass over a puddle in an alley" post yet..


Machete with the water scooped from a lake.




What?

I actually shave with a Mach 3 after a warm shower, leave the shave gel on for a few seconds before shaving, and then shave with the grain. Shaving against the grain is like rubbing a cat backwards for me, but my beard gets rather thick quickly.

[jefhatfield]

Hey,

I just read somewhere that American (I'm assuming all of North America) men generally don't know how to shave their face properly. Read something about it being a lost art.

Anyway, I taught myself how to shave, since I didn't really talk to my dad after I was 12 or so. I started shaving at 12, didn't know why I kept cutting myself, learned, and kept on going from there. How do you shave? Most people just learn it on their own, but I wanna hear how you do it.

Do you all shave against the grain (ie: up) like I do? I can't really seem to shave close enough to the skin unless I shave up on the neck, my chin, and even the bit under my nose. I always do it like this, but it doesn't sound "proper." It works well, but I hear its not right.

Anyone have any thoughts on this?

queer eye for the straight guy, on bravo and nbc, is always adressing this issue

first and foremost, go slowly

downstrokes on all areas except neck, where upstrokes are the preferred technique

i often use this technique with a razor, but when i am in a hurry, i use my remington electric shaver...the blade is closer but appearance-wise, it all looks the same when i leave the house

[jayscheuerle]

Mostly with, except for the cheeks..

Interestingly enough, the closest shave you can get is with a single blade straight razor (like the old-man barber shops), not these 3,4,5 blade babies with the lube strip or vibrating head..

[OutThere]

Braun Electric, close enough for state work. :cool:

[oximoron]

I have a huge dilemna!!!! For years, I've been shaving using Menthol shaving cream. My preferred brand is Noxzema Protective Shave, Menthol which comes in a blue can. It has that awesome "cool mentholated" feeling on your face after you shave. If I can't find that, I use Barbasol. Barbasol is allright, but it's not as "cool" and mentholly as Noxzema.

My problem is this: Now I can't find Noxzema Menthol, and I understand it's been discontinued. Grrrrrrr!!!! Does anyone know where I can get menthol shaving cream that has such an effect? I need my skin to have that awesomely cool blast of menthol feel after I shave, and it seems there's nothing out there to use. HELP!!!!!!!

[devilot]

After showering, I start by turning the tap on very hot (as hot as i can stand it) and using face cloths to apply hot compresses to my face. I do this for maybe 2 minutes. Then I put the shaving cream on, and allow it to stand for a few minutes. Then I leave the tap on hot, rinse the razor, and shave. I keep rinsing the razor so it stays wet and hot.

If i'm not in a rush i'll let the shaving cream stand, apply hot compresses OVER the shaving cream, then rinse my face and apply more shaving cream, then shave. The barber does this, and it does really give you a good shave, but it takes a bit longer.Just to clarify, no I do not shave my face! :eek:

But that is probably the best method, and if you've got less time/patience, then in the shower is the next best. The key is to have heat because heat opens up your pores allowing better access to your hairs.

[Lacero]

Do you shave or trim........down there? :D :D :D

The answer to both is no - yes


Here's to the Crazy Ones http://forums.macrumors.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=35452 (http://www.uriah.com/apple-qt/movies/think-different.mov)

[Abstract]

Oh man, I always seem to start the personal ones, don't I. :p

[Jay42]

I watched my italian barber shave a customer and it seems to be the best way.

For shaving cream and aftershave cream I use Proraso (http://www.trafalgarshop.com/catalog/category_277_Proraso_page_1.html) (Italy's Number 1 shaving product :p). It is a eucalyptus based product and seems to soften the beard, stop bleeding, and reduce redness.

After showering, I start by turning the tap on very hot (as hot as i can stand it) and using face cloths to apply hot compresses to my face. I do this for maybe 2 minutes. Then I put the shaving cream on, and allow it to stand for a few minutes. Then I leave the tap on hot, rinse the razor, and shave. I keep rinsing the razor so it stays wet and hot.

The main idea is letting the shaving cream stand.


This is definitely the way to a quality (maybe a little more time-consuming) shave. I also use Proraso usually when I'm traveling because they come in convenient, small tubes. I use genuine English shave cream that comes in a tub at home with a badger shave brush (only about $30). Yes, it is very much becoming a lost art. There is a small group dedicated to a quality shaving experience. I'm still relatively new compared to a lot of the people who preach the importance of a "wet shave," but I can say that I genuinely enjoy and look forward to my shave in the mornings (usually take about 10 min).

Start with this article and the following forum, you will learn a lot.

Wet Shave Article (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6886845/)

Wet Shave Group (http://groups.msn.com/thewetshaversgroup)

Also, I forgot to mention, a little hair conditioner on the toughest parts of your beard while your in the shower does wonders for shaving comfort. This and getting a cheap badger brush were to two best things I have done.

[nbs2]

I shave going down on the face, up on the neck, except to the right of my adam's apple, where a little patch of hair grows the other way and won't get cut unless I use downstrokes. The problem is that it gives me razor burn, so I only shave on Mon and Thurs (I currently work on Mon, Thurs and Fri with school on Mon-Wed) so it isn't too bad. Besides, my wife likes a bit of scruff.

I use a Mach 3, like almost everyone else. I don't use electric razors because they destroy my pretty face and the Schick razors are pretty crappy. I was wondering if anybody has used the new vibrating Mach 3 - is it any good?

[sreedy]

I try not to very often, just look disheveled at work!

Good job we don't see (have many) customers!

[Kernow]

I was wondering if anybody has used the new vibrating Mach 3 - is it any good?

I have used this for the last 6 months or so, and I've got to say that I like it. Before, I used to get bad razor burn and couldn't go against the grain, but now I shave upwards every 2 days, and it works fine. I have dark hair, so I need a really close shave otherwise it looks as if I haven't shaved even if my face feels smooth.

[CubaTBird]

i shave in some back alley at 3 am in the morning only with a piece of broken glass and a puddle of water to comfort me.. :cool: :p

[swindmill]

Norelco, water proof electric shaver (in the shower). I haven't used a normal razor in about 7 years and I can't imagine having to go through the trouble of doing it again. I shave about 3 times a week, and it takes 5 minutes. :)

[calyxman]

I've always been shaving against the grain. I use the sensor excel with the sensor 3 refills, although I have been using my old schick diamond fx (which they don't make anymore, but i actually had a couple unused blades sitting around for a few years and said "what the hell").

Some people shave right after they shower, but I'm the opposite. The key is to wash your face from the dirt and oils and then just rinse your beard with hot water for a couple of minutes to soften the whiskers. Then just apply a good shaving cream--I use Edge Advantage--and have at it.

Never rush, take your time, and go lightly--don't press the blade to hard against your skin!

BTW, disposables aren't that bad. Gillette Good Times were the bomb for me when I was on a tight budget.

[bigandy]

i just trim with electric, when i shave properly i wet shave with a razor. but i can't shave the tuft on my chin (without real trouble) because of a small scar i recieved in a car crash when i was a baby :rolleyes:

[2nyRiggz]

i shave before i hit the shower. my hair grow in different directions so anyway i can is the best way. i dont cut myself much though....im good:cool:

Bless

[alangyssler]

I picked up a 3 dollar electric from Wally World to use in the car on the way to work. Otherwise, I use a Schick Quattro with Qillette shaving cream for a close shave, or a Norelco cordless when I just need to clean up a little. I do enjoy allowing unfettered growth appear, and just letting the jungle grow wild, though.

[mikebatho]

Best way I've found is actually shaving in the shower.

Get a steam resistant mirror & you get a great shave with your pores open the whole time & water soothing your face.

As for technique, my beard grows in all directions, and is as course as a wire brush, so I wash the hair through to soften it, lather up, shave once all the way round going strictly with the grain and along the jawline from ear to chin on both sides...

Then lather up again with a thinner layer so you can see more of what you're doing, and shave round agin, this time only going against the grain.

Seems like a long winded process, but it's not really. Once with the grain, once against, clean & lather inbetween.

I was told that by a barber & collector of antique cutthroat razors many years ago, and time providing, it's what I always do for a great shave.

Then make Yo Woman purr by applying a layer of King Of Shaves cooling post balm...K-BLM. A guaranteed knicker loosener.....:p

[8270369]

I use electiric clippers originally designed for use on horses, but the principle is the same as using a beard trimmer on an electric razor -- just the horse clippers are way more durable (same blades for over three years!). I've tried electric razors costing between 100 + 400 dollars, and blades of all ilk, and still got rashes and burn and generally looked like crap -- although ya I was clean shaven. The clippers leave what amounts to an ongoing 5 o'clock shadow, but at least my skin is clear. My beard is light and fair coloured so I don't know that anyone really notices anyway.

I'd rather use a blade but to date nothing has worked. If anyone has any tips for SERIOUSLY sensitive skin please feel free to share. Lots of interesting tips here though, e.g. the Proraso, which I'd never heard of.

[Counterfit]

i shave in some back alley at 3 am in the morning only with a piece of broken glass and a puddle of water to comfort me.. :cool: :p
Pff, you're all wussies. I use a lightsaber and hydrochloric acid. :rolleyes:

[Sirus The Virus]

I shave against the grain. It's kinda weird, but I like shaving for some reason. I usually shave right before a shower, wet, with a razor.

[AlBDamned]

I shave against the grain for closeness but suffer all the time with ingrown hairs which is getting really, really annoying!

However, some top stuff I've gotten into using recently is Khiels shave creme (www.Kiehls.com) and Tend Skin (www.tendskin.com), two magic products.

I've also found that letting your beard grow as long as it can inbetween shaves helps. Unless I have a meeting during the week, I can get away with just shaving on Monday mornings so it further limits irritation.

Oh, and Mach3 all the way. Elecs don't get anywhere near close enough.

[iEdd]

I use gel and shave with the grain.
Rinse.
Use gel and shave against the grain.
Rinse.
That's pretty much how I do it. I generally have a shower, put gel on, leave it about a min. Shave with it, then shave against it 1-2 times, I don't always need more gel. It works wonders :p
BTW. Electric ones never shave as close, but they do cost more :) Wait!, that's not a good thing! ;)

[MattG]

Whew...

Saw the title of this thread and though maybe this one had been resurrected:

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=147106&highlight=shave

:eek:

Anyway...I use an electric, but there are certain parts of my face where it doesn't work too well, and sometimes I end up using a razor for those parts.

[iSaint]

in the shower
Mach 3
Gillette foam
daily...if I skip a day, the next shave is really close

Down on the upper half, up on the neck. But then I have to go over the neck a few times in different directions to get the crazy hairs.

[gekko513]

I shave against the grain for closeness but suffer all the time with ingrown hairs which is getting really, really annoying!

However, some top stuff I've gotten into using recently is Khiels shave creme (www.Kiehls.com) and Tend Skin (www.tendskin.com), two magic products.

I've also found that letting your beard grow as long as it can inbetween shaves helps. Unless I have a meeting during the week, I can get away with just shaving on Monday mornings so it further limits irritation.

Oh, and Mach3 all the way. Elecs don't get anywhere near close enough.
The rule to "not shave against the grain" is ment for you. If you don't have problems with ingrown hair, shave any way you like. If you do get ingrown hairs occasionally, it can help to always shave with the grain.

I expect the whole point to shaving with the grain is to not get the closest shave possible as this increases the risk of ingrown hairs.

[Toreador93]

I use a Mach 3 (still not my favorite), Barbasol shave cream (I hate gels), and against the grain except for my mustache; I have to go with the grain first, then against. Otherwise it feels like my lip is going to rip off. I usually do it before a shower so I don't have to worry about rinsing my face afterwards.

I've tried electric shavers before, and they definitely don't get close enough (I have dark brown hair), and always irritates my neck.

I would love to use a straight-edge. I hear it's the best way to shave, and then I can say I come *this* close to death every day :D
I'll probably wait until I can afford a really nice set to experiment with.

[AlBDamned]

The rule to "not shave against the grain" is ment for you. If you don't have problems with ingrown hair, shave any way you like. If you do get ingrown hairs occasionally, it can help to always shave with the grain.

I expect the whole point to shaving with the grain is to not get the closest shave possible as this increases the risk of ingrown hairs.


believe it or not gekko, the point of a non-close shave and not getting in-grown hairs has only really dawned on me reading this thread :o.

It makes sense that the less close the shave, the less chance a hair will have of getting caught under freshly shaved, healing skin.

The problem is, a non-close shave just looks and feels so bad, but not so bad as an in-grown hair I guess.

I'll try it.

[russed]

wow this thread is a blast from the past......


well i use a mach 3 vibrating thing. i think it is quite good. i tend to shave as little as possible as it gets on my nerves (so about once every 4 days - but im prettty hairy then! - im a student its allowed)

oh and against the grain under the jaw - clears the hard to get areas. nothing worse than missing a bit :)

[AlBDamned]

well i use a mach 3 vibrating thing...

That'll be a Mach3 Power(Turbo?). can you actually feel any difference from a normal razor?

[displaced]

Against the grain...

Which, for me, is right-to-left. I have thick, slightly wavy strawberry-blond hair (quite a few shades blonder than red... I think Americans call it 'dirty blond' ... which sounds cool.) But my facial hair is pretty reddish, and thick as fuse-wire.

Since I'm pale with relatively dark facial hair, I'm a little paranoid about missing patches when shaving.... For some reason, the grain goes left-to-right, so I have to shave the other way. Really, really painful if I'm not careful over the ol' Adam's Apple!

I'm a foam man. Gel just don't cut it (pardon the pun). With a razor, in the shower while the conditioner's doing its magic (as I say, my hair's absurdly thick... and I've currently got it long - have to tie it back for work). But I only wet-shave every 2 or 3 days. In between I'll just let the stubble appear, or maybe do a quick once-over with my 'leccy Braun shaver. Wet-shaving every day leaves my neck pretty raw, and usually results in a couple of in-growing beasties. Always use a little Nivea moisturiser after a wet-shave to calm the blotches (bane of us whiter-than-white pale folk!)

Curse my Celtic blood! Hehe :)

[yoak]

I now master the art of shaving (with a razor) in the shower (for the soft skin) without a mirror. In the begining I had to do touch ups with the mirror afterwords.
I do shave against, otherwise I don´t get a close enough shave.
I´m forced to use Gillet, I prefer Wilkinson & Sword, but I can´t get them here in Norway. Gillet more or less a monopoly.
How is it overthere?

[russed]

That'll be a Mach3 Power(Turbo?). can you actually feel any difference from a normal razor?

well im 20 so im not that experienced!

but anyway i wouldnt say there is that much difference to a normal mach 3 other than it vibrates a touch and david becham advertises it!

in all honestly i wouldnt say noththing beats a new blade and a good cream. but it is electric so it means technology!

[russed]

How is it overthere?

gillete monopoly here in the UK pretty much.

[displaced]

Gillette monopoly here in the UK pretty much.

Yup. And my local Tesco never has replacement blades for the Mach 3 in stock. They're always sold out. So I use the triple-blade Wilkinson Sword instead (I forget its name... perhaps because WS don't advertise quite as incessantly as Gillette).

[mad jew]

Yup. And my local Tesco never has replacement blades for the Mach 3 in stock. They're always sold out.


Weird. It's the same at my local. :(

To get around it, I just head outback and find a nice sharp rock and some platypus faeces for gel, then shave in the reflection of a still billabong thinking dreamily of long lost jumbucks...

[AlBDamned]

You guys ^^^^ sure they just don't have the blades behind the counters? :p

[russed]

Weird. It's the same at my local. :(

To get around it, I just head outback and find a nice sharp rock and some platypus faeces for gel, then shave in the reflection of a still billabong thinking dreamily of long lost jumbucks...


just to get that extra special feeling :D



platypus...just the best a man can get!

[mad jew]

You guys ^^^^ sure they just don't have the blades behind the counters? :p


Yep. I've asked around and apparently there's a bit of a supply problem at the moment. Has been this way since August. :(

[Bubbasteve]

I'm working the Mach 3 Turbo Vibrating Razor... but I might have to make the bold jump to four blades.... yes, the Schick Quatro

[displaced]

I'm working the Mach 3 Turbo Vibrating Razor... but I might have to make the bold jump to four blades.... yes, the Schick Quatro


Hehe.

So many blades.... Pretty soon, we might as well just go down to our kitchens, open the knife drawer and rub our faces in it :D

*runs to bathroom* ... ahh, that's the name of the Wilkinson Sword thing I use. The Quattro. Hmm.. Surely that should be an Audi?

[AlBDamned]

Yep. I've asked around and apparently there's a bit of a supply problem at the moment. Has been this way since August. :(

I forget you're out in the colonies, MJ. ;)

[mad jew]

I forget you're out in the colonies, MJ. ;)


Yeah, we keep most of our blades on display on the shelves for easy brandishing in times of hardship.

[AlBDamned]

Yeah, we keep most of our blades on display on the shelves for easy brandishing in times of hardship.

I'll find that out first-hand soon enough. AlBDamned is down under in February. I'll be able to take a new blade or two...

[mad jew]

Coolness. Just don't bring your duck, we don't want mad bird flu. Feel free to give me a yell if you need a Mac Fanboi™ with a beer. :p

[AlBDamned]

Coolness. Just don't bring your duck, we don't want mad bird flu. Feel free to give me a yell if you need a Mac Fanboi™ with a beer. :p

Whereabouts are you? The duck will stay in the UK. It's an Indian Running Duck but it doesn't like long flights..

[mad jew]

I tend to flitter between Sydney and Adelaide with brief adventures out to Perth.

[jefhatfield]

with electric..any old way

with razor...downstroke on front and sides, upstroke on any surface under chin which i found out through trial and error that this works for less cuts and irritation

then one day i turn on "queer eye for the straight guy" and kyan, the grooming expert of the show suggests this and i am floored that i do something in the grooming category correctly

my two businesses, or jobs, is to do landscaping/gardening and computer repair and traditionally neither job requires one to dress up or have to pay very close attention to grooming...it's not as if i am a real estate agent or tv news anchor

as for other areas of the body, i don't get into the waxing thing or electrolosis thing and i never would unless i had to, as a model or something...i once saw how andre agassi showed this entertainment show how he has his chest waxed and that looked terribly painful...besides being a tennis player, he has always been a sex symbol and sold many a product...that and having been married to model brooke shields for a time...personally, i would avoid any occupation that required chest waxing ;)

[AlBDamned]

I tend to flitter between Sydney and Adelaide with brief adventures out to Perth.

We'll, I'll be in Sydney from 20-26th feb and maybe for the week after depending on a conference press pass.

Will PM you closer to the time but a beer is a distinct possibility!

[Roger1]

Just for yellow :p

You guys are all wimps. I rip rusting beer cans apart, then use the edges to shave, with a pool of mercury from a broken thermometer as my mirror.
:D

hehe.. always fun. I actually just do basically the exact same thing as jsw.


You're the wimp. I use a dull rock, against the grain. I use an old broken beer bottle (preferably clear, usually brown) as a mirror.

:D

Seriously? Disposable razor, in the shower, no mirror. Touch up in the mirror, afterward.

[AlBDamned]

You're the wimp. I use a dull rock, against the grain. I use an old broken beer bottle (preferably clear, usually brown) as a mirror.

:D

Seriously? Disposable razor, in the shower, no mirror. Touch up in the mirror, afterward.

I guess if you use a disposable as just that and throw it after one use, it could be ok. But they always seem to cut me whenever I use one.

[mac-er]

The question is...

would any man on here get his facial hair treated with a laser so he'd never have to shave again? And admit it.

[Megatron]

Electrics have never worked very well on my beard, they always irritate the neck area.

I always shower first, to soften up your face, then shave with the grain. Then, splash face with cold water when you're done shaving to close the pores.

[rockthecasbah]

im an electric boy, plain old Panasonic electric razor for me, nothing jazzy. Shave 'round the mustache first then down around the bearded region.:)

[zelmo]

Tried an electric a long time back, and it sucked. Or maybe I just didn't know what the heck i was doing....
I used a Sensor whatever for years, in the shower, shaving down on the face and up on the neck, with a few extra strokes customized for the weird hairs that grow in unusual directions.
About two years ago I bought a Braun self cleaning electric shaver. They've come a long way in the past 20 years. The instructions said to always shave before a shower, so I tried it that way, then tried using an electric after a shower. They were right. With the electric, I get a much closer shave pre-shower.

While on vacation, I usually rip a strip of aluminum siding off the house and use the edges to shave, while using the surface of the water in the hot tub as a mirror.

Psyche! I never shave on vacation. I'M ON VACATION!!!:p

[savar]

Why did you qualify it with "your face"? It would be a much more interesting thread without that.

[Roger1]

I guess if you use a disposable as just that and throw it after one use, it could be ok. But they always seem to cut me whenever I use one.

I usually don't have any trouble, unless they're a week or two old. I do have to be careful if I have to wear a tie for some reason. Then I chafe really badly on my neck if I don't leave a littls stubble in the area.

[Applexilef]

The question is...

would any man on here get his facial hair treated with a laser so he'd never have to shave again? And admit it.

Hell yeah I would, but it's expensive isn't it?

It'd be even better if it lasted for say... 30 years... then when I'm old I'll let it grow and play santa claus

[Tymmz]

well i use a mach 3 vibrating thing. i think it is quite good.

The same here, but I need to change the blade and they are quite costly. So I use my old fashion, non vibrating Mach. +brush+foam+aftershave+creme for dry skin (should I post in the metrosexual thread?)

[LimeiBook86]

I have this electric razor and it has a beard trimmer attachment. I used the razor the regular way once and got cut all over, deciding that I didn't want to do that ever again I popped up the beard trimmer and found that that worked fine for me. I know it doesn't get rid of everything but, it's good enough for me...well at least for now since I don't have to dress up for anything. It basically just keeps me from looking like Chewbacca :)

http://www.starwars.com/databank/character/chewbacca/img/movie_sm.jpg

[XNine]

I use a knife cleansed by the flame of a blow-torch.

[jdechko]

I also shave in the shower, with no lather or mirror. I get my face wet first thing, then shave at the end - works best for me. Saves time over separate shower/shave, and makes for a cleaner sink.

Me too... the only thing that pisses me off is that without a mirror, I can never get my sideburns even. :mad:

[shadowmoses]

I use a cheap electrical razor, it works a treat and i avoid cuts etc....I have tried shaving with razors but they just make my skin tender also i am not a big fan of very close shaves which razors give,

Shadow

[iGary]

I also shave in the shower, with no lather or mirror. I get my face wet first thing, then shave at the end - works best for me. Saves time over separate shower/shave, and makes for a cleaner sink.

I shave against the grain below the jaw line, and with it above - i.e., I always shave towards my jaw line.

Ditto.

[rickvanr]

I haven't shaved in a while (working on a beard) However, sometimes I just get an electric trimmer out and trim, because sometimes when I shave with a razor and the hair grows back it gets irratated if I don't use aftershave (which I often forget).

However, when I do shave with a razor I usually shave upwards to my chin and down to my chin from above it. I'll also shave a couple stroke's with my jaw line from each side meeting in the middle of my chin. Seems to work the best for me. As to taken a shower, simply placing a warm face clothe over your face will give you the same result as a shower, and is what I'll normally do. I'll shower after shaving usually. Equipment wise I use a gel that turns into a cream, and I have a Mach 3. I've tried a few other razors, but prefer the Mach 3. When I was younger I'd borrow my Dad's electric razor, but it was always a pain, and using a normal razor is much quicker and I've managed to cut myself more with an electric. I can't think of the last time I've nicked myself with a manual razor.

[displaced]

The question is...

would any man on here get his facial hair treated with a laser so he'd never have to shave again? And admit it.

Dear God YES!

Well, not all of it...

Just the bottom inch or so on my neck... just to bring it above my Adam's apple. I'd be over the moon if I never had to shave across my Adam's apple again...

No more critical blood loss at shave-time! :D

[calyxman]

Dear God YES!

No more critical blood loss at shave-time! :D

Ouch!

Ever knicked your upper lip from shaving? Very painful!

[AP_piano295]

im still at the cut myself to ribbons and dont do a good job stage...:D maybe I should wake up and get cofee so that I can actually see. Naaa

[opusthe2nd]

Shave brush, straight razor and NEVER against the grain.

[beg_ne]

I'm working the Mach 3 Turbo Vibrating Razor... but I might have to make the bold jump to four blades.... yes, the Schick Quatro

But the Quatro only has a puny FOUR blades!!! The Gillette Fusion has 5 plus a single trimmer blade!!

http://www.gillette.com/men/index_fusion.htm

I want to try it since I like trying new stuff like that, so far i've had zero luck finding them anywhere though.

[cgratti]

Is there any other way?

[IanF0729]

When I was younger I could use a cheap straight razor with no problems. As I matured, though I started having problems shaving with or against the grain. It turned out that my skin was super sensitive. So I moved to the shower, which still works well, although I really prefer using an electric razor. I use the Norelco 8140XL and could not have been happier with it. After a lag phase where you wished you hadn't spent the $80 on it it's wonderful. Of course it doesn't get as close, but it's better than walking around looking like you have acne issues.

Just remember to clean out the chamber!

[freeny]

parts of my face I go with the grain and parts against. After the innitial shave I usually go over my whole face against.

[iGary]

The question is...

would any man on here get his facial hair treated with a laser so he'd never have to shave again? And admit it.

All of it. You bet.


And some other bits too. :eek: :D

[dops7107]

Better add my 2 cents and the my question...

Shave every three-four days, always with the grain or across it. It seems to get close enough, except for the neck line, where I absolutely cannot go against the grain. Across is the best I can get and I still get some irritation. Always after a shower, using Mach3 and gillette gel, and then some Simple moisturiser afterwards. I've also got a slightly masochistic side, where I like to pluck the hairs that aren't quite shaved on my neck line :o :eek:

So the Q: how many shaves can you get out of a typical Mack3 blade? I only seem to manage three, but I wonder if this is because I leave it so long between shaves and the hair grows coarser (I need a few strokes sometimes to get it all).

[Angelus]

I too taught myself to shave at around 13. I used always used a wet shave. I'd go with the grain first all over. Then i'd go against the grain to get an ice and close shave. For the last year though i've swithced over to an electric. It's that Philips HQ8890 from the James Bond film, Die Another Day( Yes i'm incredibly brand driven). It can be kinda hard to use around the neck at times but overall it gives a very close shave. Still as with all wet shave to electric transitions, it took around 3 weeks for my skin to adapt.

[takao]

only electric so far... never really tried wet shaving

i'm using some sort of philishave but the thing needs a replacement ... was the cheapest one and lasted about 7-8 years... time to replace the thing

here at home i use a braun which is i guess as old and no problems so far

[bodeh6]

-Shower
-Splash face with warm water
-Apply King of Shaves Gel or Anthony Logistics Shave Cream and work into lather
-Shave with grain with Schick Quattro Power (cheeks, upper lip, then chin)
-Rinse with warm water
-Wash face with Men-U Ultra Concentrated face wash (all you need is 1/2 to 1 pump)
-Rinse with cold water
-Pat Dry
-Apply Baxter of California Oil Free Moisturizer.

[mad jew]

Yup. And my local Tesco never has replacement blades for the Mach 3 in stock. They're always sold out.


They're back! I finally got some today and it was so nice having a clean shave for once. I don't have that post-shaving headache from blood loss too. :)

[iHateWindows]

This is 100% true.

I started shaving when I was 10. Ever since, I just use a regular razor without any shaving cream right before I take a shower.

[EzzieIcicle]

I have a huge dilemna!!!! For years, I've been shaving using Menthol shaving cream. My preferred brand is Noxzema Protective Shave, Menthol which comes in a blue can. It has that awesome "cool mentholated" feeling on your face after you shave. If I can't find that, I use Barbasol. Barbasol is allright, but it's not as "cool" and mentholly as Noxzema.

My problem is this: Now I can't find Noxzema Menthol, and I understand it's been discontinued. Grrrrrrr!!!! Does anyone know where I can get menthol shaving cream that has such an effect? I need my skin to have that awesomely cool blast of menthol feel after I shave, and it seems there's nothing out there to use. HELP!!!!!!!

Noxzema protective shave menthol has not been discontinued, at least not in Europe. It is still sold in the UK and Italy. I live in Canada, and a guy from the UK was selling a new can on eBay, so I bought one. It only took nine days to arrive! The price was very reasonable, too. So, check eBay from time to time. It is also sold on several UK-based drugstore-type websites, too. Here is the listing for Noxzema protective shave menthol right from P&G UK's (manufacturer) website.

http://www.uk.pg.com/products/products/noxzema.html


Here are a couple of sites that sell it:

http://www.allhealth-info.com/shared/product.asp?id=34316
http://italiasalute.leonardo.it/shopping/modello.asp?id=133150

[jamone80]

used to shave with a razor in two steps. first, i do a "light" shave with the grain. then, i re-lather and do another "light" shave but against the grain. that gave me a close shave but i dont use a razor anymore. it just seemed to leave me skin a little raw.

now i use a norelco and you have to shave in circles. its convenient but by the end of the day, a little stubble starts to show.

[Jasonbot]

RUsty teaspoon, really works well with cooking oil...

[spicyapple]

How do you shave? Most people just learn it on their own, but I wanna hear how you do it.

Philips Norelco has it up on their website that teaches the basics and "where to shave".

The Philips BodyGroom™ http://shaveeverywhere.com/ :p :)

[TheAnswer]

Philips Norelco has it up on their website that teaches the basics and "where to shave".

The Philips BodyGroom™ http://shaveeverywhere.com/ :p :)

That just made my day. Wow. :)

I was thinking of trying a cutthroat for the face soon, but I'll be getting this thing for the old carrot and kiwis.

[smueboy]

Philips Norelco has it up on their website that teaches the basics and "where to shave".

The Philips BodyGroom™ http://shaveeverywhere.com/ :p :)

Oh that is great! - my fruit and veg have never looked better.

[iindigo]

I just shave dry with a cheapo BIC disposable razor against the grain. I taught myself how to, and I've never had any trouble at all - in fact, I've never even cut myself with a razor. I hate doing it though, as it always fires up my acne.

Thank goodness I can stop shaving in three or four months. The end of private school (and its dumb rules against facial hair) is coming soon!

[phungy]

Learned by myself. Cut myself once but that's cause I didn't use gel/pressed too hard.

I use Gillette (never used an electric before) Fusion. I go with the grain.

Have never shaved against the grain but I read if you do that, there's a higher chance of ingrown hairs :eek:

[dalvin200]

Learned by myself. Cut myself once but that's cause I didn't use gel/pressed too hard.

I use Gillette (never used an electric before) Fusion. I go with the grain.

Have never shaved against the grain but I read if you do that, there's a higher chance of ingrown hairs :eek:

learnt by myself too.. my dad never showed me.. lol.. altho he probably knew i slyly used his razor a few times when i had some fuzz on my face :)

anyway, never use electric.. eewww..

always used gillette, and currently using the M3 Power!!!..

if i wanna look real sharp, i shave both ways.. ie, with the grain and against for that closer cut and smoother feel - works very well when you have to kiss the females, as face is proper smooooooove :D

how is the gillette fusion then? aint used it yet.. 4 blades, plus one on the reverse for the styling areas.. is that just a gimmick??

[phungy]

learnt by myself too.. my dad never showed me.. lol.. altho he probably knew i slyly used his razor a few times when i had some fuzz on my face :)

anyway, never use electric.. eewww..

always used gillette, and currently using the M3 Power!!!..

if i wanna look real sharp, i shave both ways.. ie, with the grain and against for that closer cut and smoother feel - works very well when you have to kiss the females, as face is proper smooooooove :D

how is the gillette fusion then? aint used it yet.. 4 blades, plus one on the reverse for the styling areas.. is that just a gimmick??

I actually used the Mach3 Turbo until my sister gave me the Fusion. I guess she's telling me something? :o But the Fusion is great! Except for the single blade on the back, I have tried it on my sideburns and it doesn't work :D . Oh and it vibrates too haha. I don't think that helps either.

[SpookTheHamster]

I shave every day or two, use Gillette M3 Power and the Fusion gel, never been smoother. I used to use Quattro but having more than 3 blades just makes the razor too big to get into smaller places like under my nose.

[islandman]

I use a Gilette Mach 3, mostly against the grain (except for above my lip and under my nose). I use Edge gel for my shaving cream.

I never was able to shave against the grain until I got my Mach 3, for what it's worth. Before my Mach 3, I was getting razor bumps all the time.

[ToddW]

i'm a cheap barbarsol kind of guy, it seems to always work the best for me anyways. also i have used a mach3 turbo for a long time and love that razor. has anyone ever used shaving soap and a brush. i have been thinking about trying that.

awhile back i used to go every three days and get a straight razor shave at the barber. man it was great, the hot lather the bs talk in the barber shop. not to mention a really close smooth shave. it was really cool. i wish i could find another old time barber shop like that again.