This is a continuation of my previous shaving woes. I'm male, with quite coarse facial hair that is difficult to shave. My goal is to find the perfect combination leading to a near-perfect shave. I've never been able to succeed. First some history, I started with throw-away plastic razors when I was about 18, then as I got older I switched to the Mach 3. I went from using shaving soap, to shaving cream to using shaving foam. I've used a Mach 3 and Gilette Foam for about two years now. Shaving is still something of a chore, but I rarely cut myself and get an acceptable shave with the Mach 3. The problem is, it's just not close enough, it always makes my face sore after shaving and my skin has little red spots in places, which have caused me to become very self concious. And I'm pretty careful when shaving.
So then came the point, when I had enough. I need to find a new shaving technique. I did some researching and found that double-edged razors are highly recommended, because they can provide a close(r) shave as well as less damage to the skin. Especially when combined with
classic shaving creams and
badger hair brushes. So I invested in all those. I found using a badger hair brush improved my shave a little bit, so then I decided to try some shaving cream - I picked Taylor of Bond "Gentlemens" cream. When I first used it, I shaved as normal, with the exception of using this cream instead of Foam. After shaving, my face was stinging for about an hour or more. It was definitely related to the cream. Why? Does this mean I can't use this cream, or that my face needs to adapt to it?
Now recently I've invested in a Merkur DE Razor, and selected one of the models best suited to beginners. I've read everywhere that despite that, they will still offer a closer shave than your average Mach 3 razor. I decided to have a go at using the classic shaving cream again, and proceed to shave after getting some tips. I was careful and cut myself just once, however I found that after following all the advice, this razor doesn't shave close at all. I had to re-lather up and shave again afterward which I'm sure doesn't help the skin. And my face again, is stinging from using the classic shaving cream. So I'm one unhappy guy right now, with a stinging face right now and remaining stubble.
Ok, I know you can't master a DE from the start, but I would've at least expected a closer shave after all that effort. I'm not really sure I can stick with this DE Razor because I don't want to walk around stinging with stubble for weeks before I get used to it. So the question is, where can I go from here?? Do I stick with the DE Razor, do I change shaving cream, or do I go back to using the Mach 3, perhaps ditching the foam?
