|
|
|
 The double-edge safety razor is popular among wet shavers. This type of shaver has a sturdy handle and a shave head that is typically made out of metal. You can open the metal head and insert a new double-edged replacement blade once the old one has become dull. Replacement blades are inexpensive, easy to find, and provide two shaving edges per blade, so they last twice as long.
One of the main inducements for most men to give double-edge razors a try is the increasingly expensive prices for multiple-blade replacement cartridges. Typically, you can count on a week’s worth of great shaving before it’s time to replace the blade on a double-edge razor. Can you say the same for the multiple-blade varieties?
Shaving with a double-edge razor (safety razor):
Start off by making sure your face is wet and all lathered up. Like using a straight razor, make sure you use as little pressure as possible on the double-edge razor and angle the razor’s handle away from your face as much as possible.
Put the top of razor directly against your cheek with the handle perfectly parallel with the floor. At this angle, no part of the blade is in contact with your face. Now slowly lower the handle down to where the blade can just cut the hair—about 30 degrees from horizontal. If you pay close attention to the pressure you apply on your double edge razor and its angle, you should not get skin irritation or razor burn.
Keep your razor strokes very short at first. Make one swipe up followed by a swipe down over each area. Over time you will be more comfortable using a double-edge razor and your face will slowly adjust to the new technique. As you condition yourself and improve your double-edge razor skill, you can add strokes (make sure you re-lather in between) to get a close shave.
As with a straight razor, shave the cheeks and leave the neck, chin and upper lip for last, allowing more time for the shaving soap to soften these tough areas. Use your free hand to keep the skin stretched tight to create a smooth surface for the razor and shave against the grain at the end to remove those last few stubborn hairs.
Most nicks or cuts happen when the razor’s blade makes first contact with the skin. To avoid this, allow the safety bar to contact the skin first and lift the razor handle until you achieve the desired angle, and then begin your forward motion. Take your time. Enjoy the process. If you do, you’ll definitely enjoy the result!
Amazing Shaving carries a full line of men's double edge safety razors including Merkur safety razors.
|
|
