(Part 2) Best shaving products according to redditors

Invest in a safety razor and some blades and you will be set. Those 200 blades should last you for a decade unless you shave daily.

Im not kidding. Safety razor blades are mere pennies and the razor should last longer than you.

Not sure if it's this exactly, but it's like this: http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-QT4070-Stubble-Mustache/dp/B003U8ESI4/

They're a bit more expensive, but feather is another brand which I think are the sharpest you can get.

EDIT: Since there's been a ton of comments, I thought I'd just summarise: Shaper doesn't mean better - depending on your skin, different sharpness will drag or cut more here is a little guide about the sharpness of a couple of different manufacturers. For anyone just starting out, I recommend getting a sampler of a couple of different sharpness blades and seeing what works for you.

https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Cream-Refreshing-Toning/dp/B00837ZOI0

A million times better and lasts longer than that Gillette shit.

As someone explained, ingrown hairs happen when the hair doesn't actually break the surface of the skin, the most common cause for them is shaving with poor gear or incorrectly. Basically you shave and instead of cutting the hair, the razor pulls it slightly out from the hair follicle before actually cutting it. So when the hair grows back, if it's even slightly off from it's previous position, there's a good chance it won't break through the skin and end up as an ingrown hair.

Some people also have naturally very curly hair which then ends up causing much more ingrown hairs than most others. If they just happen even without shaving then the issue is a bit more difficult to manage and there's actually very little you can do about it. However if they happen after shaving, then solution do exist.

I'm going to detail some things you can do about your shaving routine that should help with ingrown hairs.

First of all, get yourself a double edge razor. If you want something cheap you can get one for about 3$ from Amazon, for something a bit better and more expensive the Edwin jagger DE89 is an excellent razor. There are literally hundreds of other options out there, you can often find DE razors from antique shops, flea markets or just your parents/grandparents place. And vintage razors are often extremely good if they are in decent shape.

Next you'll need some blades, I recommend buying a sampler pack again this one is about 11$. The reason you want a sample pack is because certain blades work better for certain people, so you can try them out and find the blade that fits you.

Now why on earth would you spend the whopping 15$ on technology from 70's when you have the new gilette 20 blade razor that is supersharp technology masterpiece? Mostly because it's not supersharp, well..It kinda is but it won't stay that way. The problem is that blades go dull, and when blades go dull they don't cut well, when they don't cut well they tug the hair and you end up with ingrown hairs. The easy solution is to change the cartridge often, but the cartridges are really goddamn expensive so you don't want to do that. DE blades? You can get a years supply for 20-30$, change it every 1-3 shaves and you can ensure the blade stays sharp and cuts well.

Someone also suggested exfoliating the skin, but you can kill two birds with one stone. You can get yourself a shaving brussh, something simple like the Omega 10077 it's a good, cheap starter brush it's a bit on the harder side so you can easily use it to exfoliate your skin prior to shaving. With that you can get a tube of Proraso shaving cream which is leaps and bounds better than the stuff you get from a supermarket in a can. Then to top it off get yourself some nice aftershave to calm your skin after shaving.

Now you'll also need to change your entire routine a bit. Slap a blade on your new razor, fill your sink up with some hot water and let your brush soak in the water. While your brush soaks rinse the areas you want to shave with plenty of hot water, this helps to open up the pores and soften your hair prior to shaving. If you want you can use some pre-shave to try and keep the irritation to your skin to minimum. Now you'll need to prep some lather, you can use a bowl, your hand or just do it right where you want to shave Here's a good guide on what you can do. The basic idea is to make sure your brush isn't exactly dripping wet but still wet, get about an almond size drop of the shave cream, then just mix up the cream like you'd be mixing eggs, add drops of water if needed. Once you have some lather, apply it in the places you want. You should use rather brisk circular motions, these help to prop your hair up and makes them easier to shave. Applying cream with hands usually has the bad effect of pushing your hair flat on your skin which makes shaving harder.

Now you have some lather so you'll need to shave. There are two main things to keep in mind with a DE: Blade angle and pressure.

Basically there is an ideal blade angle and finding one will take some time. However there is an entire wiki page dedicated to this. The second one is pressure, with a cartridge razor you ten dto press it against your skin, because the blades are dull and you try to shave as well as possible. With a DE, you should not put any pressure on your skin. The blade is sharp enough to cleanly cut the hair with zero pressure. Getting a hang of it is gonna take a week or so, but once you do you will consistently get better shaves. And be sure to rinse your blade often with the water you have in your sink, you don't want too much cream clogging the blade up.

The basic three pass DE shave includes one pass with the grain of the hair, another across the grain and the final pass is done very carefully against the grain and only if needed or you absolutely want to do it. Shaving against the grain gives you the best shave, but also irritates your skin more and is much more likely to end up with reddish skin or small cuts. So you fist shave everything with the grain, then rinse, apply lather, shave across the grain, rinse, and shave against the grain if needed.

Finally rinse with cool water, dry yourself up and apply aftershave. For other post-shave products you can get yourself an Alum bloc. It's a natural astringent that closes up most small razor nicks. After your final pass and after rinsing your face, grab the block and just massage it on the areas where you shaved, then rinse your face again. Another excellent product is witch hazel. It's again an all natural skin care product, it helps to cool, refresh and revitalize your skin. You can also use it daily even if you don't shave. Personally I apply witch hazel after I rinse off the alum. Then wait a few minutes and apply after shave.

Doing all that should help to decrease skin irritation and reduce ingrown hairs. And those products are just a dip in he ocean, there are hundreds of soaps, aftershaves, creams and all manner of other things you can get cheap and easy. Check out /r/wicked_edge for more.

Alright, Im editing this comment to include all the info now that I'm finally home from work:
Like I said earlier, I got the blades from William Marvy Co. in St. Paul Minnesota. They are old stock which is how I was able to get them so cheap (5¢ a blade). I'm not sure if they will ship them but you can definitely get them a call.

The Arko is from amazon, here's the link!

Now the razors are where I lucked out; my grandparents run an antique store and I just asked them if they had any razors and they just gave me both of these razors. If you cant tell, its a Gillette Slim Adjustable and an old Gillette Tech. I have no idea what year they are from so somebody should tell me how I go about figuring that out...

http://www.amazon.com/SODIAL-Silver-Double-Shaver-Nonslip/dp/B00A7239EK/ref=pd_sbs_hpc_2

$2.25 and free shipping. If you can't afford that, then you can't afford to shave at all.

I recently ordered, received, and tested this razor.

The razor arrived in my mailbox eleven days after I placed my order. It showed up in a very plain bubble-envelope mailer, with just this inside:

http://i.imgur.com/LzgJLFh.jpg


The razor, and a single blade. At first blush, the razor was light but not flimsy. It's definitely less substantial than my Merkur 34C, but it's acceptable. The fit and finish seem to be of decent quality. It comes apart easily, and actually breaks into four pieces: the curved top piece that goes over the blade, the "comb" portion that goes under the blade, the shaft, and the knob at the bottom of the shaft.

http://i.imgur.com/StkkZCQ.jpg

I decided to test the razor using a blue-box Gillette 7 O'Clock, which is a common blade and friendly to my face. I usually favor Feathers, but I'm not about to put a Feather into a razor with which I am not familiar. The blade that came with this razor was a weird Chinese brand I've never used before, and I wanted to make sure that I'm evaluating the razor, not the blade.

http://i.imgur.com/dJhnWSN.jpg

The razor goes together easily. The threads are not as nice as the Merkur 34C, but everything screws down tight and stays there. Balance is decent, nothing special. The razor feels a little light, but I like heavy razors.

http://i.imgur.com/k5DxcAk.jpg

I chose to test using a Gillette 7 O'Clock (blue box), Ecotools Bamboo brush, and a mixture of Arko and Proraso soap from a mug. This is what I've been using daily in my other DE razors.

I lathered up, and did one pass with the grain, re-lathered, then made a second pass across the grain. This is how I usually shave daily. Immediately, I noticed that the razor is a slightly mild shaver; I had to use a more aggressive angle than with the 34C. It does shave well, but I had to apply some hand pressure, as this razor is not as heavy as some that I am used to. I did prefer it to the Weishi butterfly DE. Overall, I was happy with the quality of the shave after my across the grain pass; it was decent.


In sum, for $2.25 shipped, this razor is a good deal. It works decently, looks alright, and comes in a package that includes some amusingly translated instructions. I'll likely get a few more to keep at vacation homes and such. I would still recommend a 34C as a first DE over this, but this is good for the DE fan that just wants something else in the stable, or wants a razor to leave at the lake house or mistress's apartment. For $2.25, if it gets messed up-- no big deal.

I honestly don't know if it will work well for shaved heads, but i use a peanut mini clipper for my beard and even haircuts. Has lasted me more than 4 years of regular use and maintenance.

Wahl Peanut - Amazon $41.88

The Wahl Peanut has lasted me for 8 years of full-time international travel. I have replaced the blade twice.

I prefer the corded version as it's much more powerful than the cordless.

Use a Salux cloth with your body wash of choice when you shower! I use the Olay Ultra Moisture Shea Butter Body Wash, three pumps on my Salux cloth, lather up, and scrub all over. I've done that daily for years and years from behind my ears down to in between my toes. Combine that with shaving off body hair and you'll be so soft. I highly recommend an electric razor to shave your body. Gets somewhat close to a traditional razor but it's so convenient to use and it's a one time purchase. No additional cost involved for maintenance or anything!

Neither.

The Baxter razor is a re-branded Muhle R89, which shares a head with, and is functionally identical to, the Edwin Jagger DE89-series razors (example). It's not a bad razor, but they're selling it for 2-3 times what it should cost.


The Last Razor is new to me, but the fact that they call their razors "shavers" is not a good sign. The razor itself appears to be a mid-quality twist-to-open; there are dozens of them coming out of China these days, and the going price is ~$10.

$35 for that razor appears to be the opposite of the original "razor and blades" sales model - they're charging way too much for the razor and using the price to subsidize the blades. But while $5 is a pretty good deal for a tube of cream and 60 blades, it's not unbeatable, and only makes sense if you like that cream and those blades. You can get blades for under $0.07 each and Arko shave sticks for a buck apiece. But you're better off trying a variety of blades to find the one you like best. Ditto with soaps and/or creams.

Instead of either of those, just get the Maggard Razors Basic Starter Kit. Use promo code KITSHIP for free shipping (expires at midnight tonight). You'll only be spending $30, and you'll get better stuff.

This one

I want to get something with a little more ass to make the task go a little quicker.

Cu un aparat clasic. Orice prostie foloseam de la Gilette, indiferent de pret sau de aftershave imi lasa fata iritata.

Am trecut pe lucrurile clasice cu aparatul asta, lame Astra, sapun de barbierit si piatra de alaun. Nu mai am nici o problema dupa barbierit si e si de cel putin 10 ori mai ieftin.

Showed her an ad for replacement razor blades?

As embarrassed as I am to admit this:

Groom Mate Platinum XL

No batteries, solid steel, disassembles for cleaning.

Awesome! All right, here we go.

Razors:

The difference between men and women's razors is that women's have longer handles and a smaller aperture for the blade. Men's usually have a wavy little comb bit that lifts up their thicker beard hair to cut.

The one I personally recommend is the Weishi. It's $17 bucks, and the metal is really light, but I ended up getting used to that fairly quickly. Not a big initial investment and perfectly adequate for my needs.

I see Murker recommended fairly often. I hear they are okay, if overpriced. I personally hated it, lol. They are definitely geared towards beards and did not play nice with my pale little legs.

You could also go for the vintage Lady Gillette. I paid $30 for mine on ebay and it's got a nice long handle, good grip, and nice weighty metal. This was actually my first purchase and I'm still really happy with it. Considering I'm happy with the Weishi, though, I'd probably just repurchase that one if I ever lose mine.

Blades:

Now this one might take some trial and error. Everyone has different hair and different skin and every razor brand shaves a little differently.

A lot of people start off with a multipack to get a feel for the different blades and then narrow it down to brands they like. I think it's a great idea and probably your best bet. I'll still mention my experiences though.

STAY AWAY FROM DORCO. They are bullshit. I'm not a fan of Gillette brand blades either except for the Wilkinson Sword and they're kind of expensive at $20 for 100. Derby is also just okay.

Feather: give the sharpest, closest shave ever. So sharp that you can cut yourself and you won't even notice until the trail of blood starts going down the drain. Great blades, and a ton of people like them, but I found that they dull too quickly for leg real-estate and are too scary sharp for sensitive bits.

Voskhod: Sharp, reliable, lasts through a few shavings. I quite like this one and have repurchased it. They are good, solid razors that gave a decent shave. Good for all-over.

Shark: My favorite at the moment. Comparable to Voskhod except I feel they might give a slightly closer shave and dull a little bit faster. If I had both in the bathroom I would probably choose Shark for the legs and Voskhod for everywhere else.

Astra: Worked adequately. Shave isn't bad or great, just reliable. Worked on the legs but not as good in other places. Wasn't worth a repurchase.

Lord: I think these actually lasted the most shaves out of all of them, at about 4 uses per blade. I think I had the least incidence of cuts with these but the shave wasn't as close as I wanted. My shaves usually last two or three days with the other razors but with this one I was feeling it lasted only 1-2. I think these are literally the opposite of the Feathers in terms of their qualities.

​

M'kay, that's all I can think of for now. I hope this helps!

I strongly encourage you to get one of these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000EBFJXS/ref=cm_sw_su_dp

Literally a life changer for me. I used to just rip them out like a barbarian, and then be like, "Why is my nose filled with pain?" the next day as in-grown hairs set in. This guy does the job in 2 seconds, and no batteries required.

Using a shaving soap and a brush doesn't have to be expensive. You can get 12 sticks of Arko (900g of shaving soap) for $13.15 from Amazon. Those should last you few years. Omega boar brush can typically had for around $10. Omega synthetic S-brush can be bought for less than $7. The shaving brush will last you many years.

So there's really no reason to use Dial soap. At least price wise.

A safety razor is a razor in which the blade is held in a holder with a guard. There's a wide variety: Schick Injectors and the GEM use a single edge blade, the Fusion uses a multiblade cartridge, and the safety razors most commonly used in this forum use a double-edged blade: a DE safety razor.

The Edwin Jagger DE8x series is excellent and at a better price point than the Merkur razors, plus the head design is more recent and (IMO) better.

You have a lot of choices in brushes. I generally recommend the Omega 643167 artificial badger but the Frank Shaving badger brushes are admired by many. And lately I find that horsehair shaving brushes do a superb job of creating lather: more resilient than badger, not so coarse as boar. If you do decide to go with a boar brush, I recommend the Omega Pro 48 as well as this beginner's guide to boar brushes.

For a shaving soap, I recommend starting with a shave stick: soap in stick form. Some good brands: Palmolive, Speick, Valobra, Arko, and others. Wash your beard at the sink, rinse, and then rub the shave stick against the grain all over your wet beard. Brush your beard briskly with a wet brush, and you'll get loads o' lather, with the brush holding plenty for later passes (you rinse and apply lather prior to each pass). Exception: I wouldn't try this with a boar brush, which must break in over a few weeks' use before it has much capacity.

OTOH, you say that your beard is sparse, so a shave stick may not work. Take a look at these soap and shaving cream vendors for some artisanal products that sell at quite a reasonable price and perform well:

• Al's Shaving
• Em’s Place
• Ginger’s Garden
• Honeybee Soaps
• Kell’s Original
• Mama Bear
• Nanny’s Silly Soap Company (in the UK)
• Prairie Creations
• QED
• Queen Charlotte Soaps
• Saint Charles Shave
• The Shave Den

I don't find that a shave oil helps me all that much, but in washing my beard at the sink, I do find that Musgo Real Glyce Lime Oil soap (MR GLO) is a great help. The rinse after washing your beard with this is just a splash, not a thorough rinse, and note that this is a pre-shave soap, not a shaving soap. You get your lather from a shaving soap or shaving cream.

Here are some vendors you can check out. These supply blade sampler packs, which you'll need: no one can predict which blades will work for you and which won't:

• BestShave.net (free shipping worldwide)
• BullGoose Shaving Supplies (in the US)
• Connaught Shaving (in the UK)
• Details for Men (in the US)
• Em’s Place (in the US)
• Fendrihan (in Canada)
• Kinetic Blue (in Australia)
• Razor Blades & More (in the US)
• Royal Shave (in the US)
• Shaving.ie (in Ireland)
• Shoebox Shaveshop (in the US)
• Traditional Shaving Supplies (in Ireland)
• West Coast Shaving (in the US)
• Via Amazon.com
• Via eBay.com

On amazon you can find a 12 pack of Arko shaving soap stick for $16. There might even be cheaper ways to buy in bulk.
Combine this with a synthetic or boar shaving brush which can be had for under 10$.
The quantity of soap in there will last you years (estimates range from 100 to over 300 shaves per stick), and the brush can last over a decade (or even longer) if not abused.

Oh boy... I've got many...

Ultra Soft Plush Kimono Bathrobe with Pockets

Anti-Fungal Soap

Travel Hammock

Ladies Electric Shaver

Palm Massage Tool This thing is UHmazing! Make my SO use it on me everynight..

Watery Essence SPF50+/PA++++ 50g Sunscreen

Coffee Gator

Hydro Flask Sports Water Bottle

My dog's cozy/warm Blueberry Pet Sweater She's a 50lb pit bull mix and she loves wearing this in the winter. 20" fits her wonderfully.

Closet Underwear Organizer Drawer Divider

You can get one on amazon for $12 Link

It depends on how much soap you use per shave, but 8 sticks could probably last you around two years or so, maybe longer if you are conservative. With Arko, it doesn't take much soap to get enough lather for three passes.

What do you consider a "good offer?" Arko is cheap to begin with, and if you buy by the carton you get the soap for a little over a dollar per stick.

The only question is do you really want to shave with this soap for that long?

For your nose/ears, buy a Groommate XL

http://smile.amazon.com/Groom-Mate-Platinum-Nose-Trimmer/dp/B000EBFJXS

For the rest of your manscaping, while everyone loves Wahl for consumer products, I've had a set of Oster clippers that I've used for 7 or 8 years, with the same two heads, and they've done fine. I used them for my beard, chest, and other places. They're strong and make quick work.

If I were to replace the Osters, my stylist uses this new version of wireless, infinitely adjustable clippers, but they're pretty damn expensive. I'd get those as he raves about them and uses them professionally every day.

Chiseled Face soaps are on there for $16 each and are absolutely fantastic! Alternately, for about the same price you could get 12 Arko Sticks. For a few extra dollars you could pick up a Semogue Owners Club.

Safety razor, real shaving soap, and a after lotion. I use method shaving which is just the best way IMHO.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSv_0MpKJU4

Watch his whole series. They're awesome.

EDIT: I should explain some of the process in method shaving is that you should first have a moist surface to shave as to reduce irritation. Second, attempt to reduce the number of passes over the same area to reduce the chance of razor burn. And third, probably the most important USE GOOD PRODUCTS! Don't cheap out here you're going for a good clean shave.

Personally I like Proaso products, my shaving kit has the following items in it:

• Shaving Soap
  
• After-Shave Lotion
  
• Merkur Razor
  
• Shaving Brush
  
  I'm not saying drop a ton of money into this but don't cheap out. Get stuff that will last you a lifetime it will be well worth the investment and you'll enjoy the shaving experience.

I use this one, discovered it because it was my (at the time) boyfriends favorite trimmer. Used it and never looked back

EMSK: Men don't trim their beards.

In all seriousness, these work well: http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-QT4070-Stubble-Mustache/dp/B003U8ESI4

Use old curtains as cloth napkins. Use old bath or beach towels as kitchen rags to replace paper towels. We've been using the same napkins and rags for over 10 years. I can't imagine how much paper towel and paper napkin that is. But no doubt, someone has made up for our lack of consumption.

In place of those awful disposable tupperware not-quite-trash containers, a bowl with a plate on top of it will keep your leftovers from dinner to lunch. Soups go great into glass jars (don't freeze please). These wax cloth wrappers are pricey, but we have used them to good results. Thinking about making some with our beeswax. These son of a diddlys are awesome to take leftovers to work or bring leftovers home from parties or restaurants. Of course, Amazon will send it to you in 80 boxes and 15 bags.

Try doing less laundry by making less laundry. Try it.

Purchase a reusable razor where the only disposable is the blade.

Compost everything you can.

Get a double-edged safety razor for shaving your lady bits. It will give you a closer shave and less irritation. Also cheaper and better for the environment than disposables. Here’s a link .

When I shave with my electric razor, it takes like 90 secs tops, and I've legit never replaced any of its parts (and I've had it for probably 2-3 years at this point). And I know I've already recommended safety razors before, but allow me to point something else out: cartridge razors (i.e. multi-blade things you typically buy in packs of 4) are A LOT more expensive than safety razor blades and they don't last that much longer. You can buy a pack of 100 blades for $16. It takes a little bit of time to learn the proper technique so you don't cut yourself, but it tends to produce better results in the end. Plus, the handles are really nice (hefty, solid metal, shiny).

I brazilly wax every few months and let it grow in between waxes. If left untamed, "very hairy" doesn't even begin to describe my bits. Think crotch-yeti. It also doesn't help that it's very coarse, very dark hair either. :(

During the re-growth stage, I trim with one of these guys. I can maintain the shrubbery but keep it at a waxable length without too much worry about ingrown hair.

I've done laser hair removal on other body parts for long periods of time. It's very expensive, pretty painful depending on the area (but there are numbing creams), but it can be a very effective way to lessen hair growth.

Cartridge razors are far too harsh, start with a DE.
This is a good inexpensive starter kit.

• Starter Kit
  
• Razor: SODIAL - $2.25, excellent starter/travel razor, shaves like a Gillette Tech. I just bought one as a travel razor and it’s great.
  
• Brush: Bestshave.net No:6 Horse Hair - $2.45, I have two, one in my travel kit, nice brush.
  
• Soap: Bestshave.net has a large selection, Arko Stick at $1.95 is popular.
  
• Blades: Bestshave.net
  
• Polsilver Super Iridium (5) - $2.30
  
• Astra Superior Platinum (10) - $1.04
  
• Rapira (10) - $.80
  
• Bic Chrome Platinum (10) - $1.95
  
• Shark (10) - $.85
  
• Derby (10) - $1.00
  
• Racer (10) - $.76
  
• Sixty-five blades for $8.70, $.13 per blade, most blade sampler packs cost $.25 to $.60 a blade. They have other blades, these are ones I’ve tried, I don’t like some, other people do. Blade Reviews
  
• Total Cost: $15.35
  
  

I use this razor and astra blades.

https://www.amazon.com/Fashion-Traditional-Sturdy-SAFETY-Twist-Grip/dp/B006O3MNIY

Omega Brush

https://www.amazon.com/Omega-Shaving-Brush-10048-Bristle/dp/B003BWNR9A/ref=sr_1_9_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1550456858&sr=1-9&keywords=shaving+brush+omega

Williams mug shave soap.

And it all works fabulous. The thing that really up'd my game was getting my razor at the tightness level I wanted, changing the blade frequently, and getting better at lathering up my soap and applying the lather a bit more aggressively with my brush.

edit.

this is my razor stand.

https://www.macshardware.com/product-p/19660165.htm

edit 2

I use jojoba oil immediately after shaving as well.

I replied to the above comment but if you're looking for one I got this on Amazon and it's extremely well made.

https://www.amazon.com/WEISHI-Nostalgic-Handle-Butterfly-Double/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536767642&sr=1-4&keywords=safety+razor

It's not different than a regular razor at all, except it's a much, much better shave and saves you a ton of money. I use this Feather one - it's lighter than the fully metal Merkur ones and super durable, I've had mine (and traveled with it) for about seven years now. Linked here.

Honestly, ever since I started shaving with a safety razor, not only did I save ridiculous amounts of money, but I also never had ingrown hair problems again. I was back home this week and had to shave with my dad's Mach 3, and what do you know - ingrown hairs again.

I think the safety razor forces you to slow down. Also, you get less "face-to-razor" contact because you're only dragging one blade across your face as opposed to 3 or more. The perceived "ease of use" associated with multi-blade razors incentivizes you to rush through and chew up your face.

There are a lot of safety razor purists who will tell you to get a coffee mug, a boars hair brush, and fancy shaving cream. However, all I did was change the razor and kept all else the same, with conventional cream. Its been working fantastically for me.

I linked you to the safety razor I bought, which is only $15 and works perfectly. Buy a pack of these razors to go along with it and you will be set for a couple years for what you would pay for one months worth of Mach 3 razors.

I use the Wahl Peanut. Never had a problem.

I have one of these.. pretty heavy duty.

Here is a video review.

Congrats!

I wash my face in the shower with this

Then I lather up with this using this

Shave with this or if I feel like being a gentleman this

I then rinse my face with cold water and apply this which feels like the gods just came on my face

Let that dry for a minute and apply this and I am good to go

Was using this but found it too harsh for my face so left it out

I've never been one for a skincare routine, but with the help of some guys at a high end barber shop in my city I hammered out this setup over the past year or so. The improvements have been significant.

Plus the bitches get wet when they see the straight razor. I like wet bitches.

I use this. I have had it for going on 5 years now and it works like the day I bought it.

I used to use the electric trimmers, but my experience with them isn't as good.

As a fellow hairy man with thinning hair (but still vain and in my 20s), the Mangroomer is my best friend

Arko FTW.

That should keep you going until you graduate.

Check out Coconut Oil for pre-shave too. Haven't tried olive, but the coconut oil has... multiple... uses... when the fairer sex is there... or not...

Popcorn with it is supposedly amazing too...

Maybe try an electronic razor. I just bought one for my no-no area and I've never been so pleased. Single best thing ive ever done as far as grooming. I don't have to exfoliate that area any more. I used to get a little razor rash and irritation. Now its perfect, smooth, and without nicks. Very close shave too. This is the one I bought. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0018A32XS/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_details_o03_s00_i00
permalinksavecontextfull comments (660)delete

and and a pack of 100 safety razors costs about the same as 5 pack of Gillette blades.

and Amazon US.

I'd start with the Kit suggestions and FAQ in the sidebar.

In short you will NEED: A razor, razor blades and soap or cream.
Optional but Highly Recommended: a brush, shaving bowl, alum stick, witchhazel, styptic pencil, a sampler pack of blades to find what works best for you.

Typical recommendations are the Edwin Jagger de89bl with a sampler pack and an inexpensive kit or a slightly nicer kit

However if you give us a budget range or your interests that could help point you in the right direction.

Also if you are looking at straight razors, I will have to defer to those more knowledgeable than I.

https://www.amazon.ca/Panasonic-ER-GN30-K-Vortex-Facial-Trimmer/dp/B0049LUI9O

not what your looking for, but since the topic is on nose hair

On value alone you win so significantly with the Bespoke box. As others have said, you're getting a Standard razor at half price or less. This is the razor I've been using for the past month, from the Bespoke box, and I can tell you it's a marked jump from my previous Edwin Jagger DE86. The DE86 itself is superior to the Parker 22R, so you can imagine how much of a jump the Standard would be.

One thing to note is the NY Shaving Co cream is a smaller size, only 2oz. You will have to get some more soaps or creams fairly soon after. Additionally it comes with only 10 blades in total.

If you were planning to put up $98 to get in the DE shaving game anyway, here's an allocation that is superior to the one in your post:

1. Bespoke Post "The Barber" - $34 with code GOOD
   
   
2. L'Occitane Plisson shaving brush - $30 in store or online
   
   
3. 35-blade sampler - $19 (very important that you get a sampler with >1 of each blade)
   
   
4. Barrister & Mann "Latha" shaving soap - $3 plus shipping if you sign up for their rewards program. A straight-up steal on one of the best soap makers in the business.
   
   This combination is what I got my friends into DE shaving with. For a newcomer it's really important to start with the highest quality you can afford - the Standard razor is excellent, the Plisson is known as the "brush of the gods", and B&M soap has a near-legendary reputation among wet shavers.

I use the Wahl Peanut

It's only $35 and it's worked well for me.

Manual all the way:

https://www.amazon.com/Groom-Mate-Platinum-Nose-Trimmer/dp/B000EBFJXS?th=1

I've had this for a decade and it works as well as the day I bought it.

Small and durable, no power required.

Win: http://www.amazon.com/Groom-Mate-Platinum-Nose-Trimmer/dp/B000EBFJXS/ref=sr_sp-atf_title_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369403076&sr=8-1&keywords=Groom+Mate

Next time try a back shaver. I have one from Amazon, it takes two passes to get all the hair but it's great. http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000HQ0L2E

So I looked more into it, because I have no life and it amuses me to type it all out. Already knew the whole “women must shave this or that body part for reasons” industry was started in sexism, fashion, and imitating celebrities, but my annoyance mainly comes from the actual shaving or hair removal products themselves. These are equally advanced or held back by sexism, and the more recent history is both fascinating and frustrating to look back on. The basic history is this:

In 1770-ish, Jean-Jacques Perret wrote a guide on shaving and seemingly invented the Perret razor of a blade fixed to a handle, i.e. the straight edge, which looked like a small machete for your face.

In 1847, William S. Henson produced a razor with blades set at right angles to the handle, and in 1880 the term “safety razor” was patented by some dude or other.

In 1898, John F. O’Rourke invented the electric razor.

In 1901/1904, American inventor King Camp Gillette (no royal affiliation) and William Nickerson patented a new design of safety razor as well as disposable blades.

In 1939(?), Professor Alexandre Horowitz invented the Philishave rotary electric razor (for the Phillips company).

In 1940, it seems Remington made the first women’s electric razor, Lady Schick, the design of which hasn’t changed too much since as far as some budget electric razors go.

In 1966, Phillips added the 3rd rotary head to their razors, making the style we tend to see today in men’s rotary razors.

More modern, “nicer” women’s razors still tend to look like this style, a design men had in the early 90’s, if not earlier. Meanwhile, I’ve seen exactly one long-handled (non-octopi-shaped) women’s rotary razor and attempting to find who makes it, for the purpose of this mini history lesson, is annoying as hell because it only popped up in one random Pinterest image and that turned out not to lead to the product.

Now the popular thing is the octopi-shaped design by Finishing Touch and their competitors. Tried to find when exactly that style got invented/patented, but it’s proving too difficult. Though I’m pretty sure I started seeing them advertised towards women around…. 2010 maybe? Amusingly, it’s the same design as the electric shavers advertised for men’s bald heads, so guess which probably came first. All in all, the Finishing Touch design is about 44 years after Phillips added the 3rd rotary head and 95 years after Gillette started “The First Great Anti-Underarm Hair Campaign”.

I’m just saying, for the TL;DR that if men want women to shave everywhere, why is the industry so slow to further implement (edit: and market) better designs for women?

Ok, so I don't have actual relationship advice, but I have some great shaving advice.

I get shaving bumps, 100% of the time, exfoliating doesn't help, blah blah blah. Electric trimmers are the best tools! They're easier to use, they never burn, wider area per stroke, don't need to be in a shower to use. I find it to be just as close as a razor.

I bought this razor last year and it is going strong.

For me, the type of shaving soap turned out to be critical. It took me a surprisingly long time to discover that many soaps and creams irritated the heck out of my skin, including some that were specifically recommended for shavers with sensitive skin (!). I bought Taylor of Old Bond Street ("TOBS") Avocado and it irritated me severely. Being a clueless newbie, I blamed this on imperfect technique / wrong blade / wrong razor, and kept foolishly trying to learn to DE shave, with irritating lather, for several weeks.

Eventually I had a "Well Duh, Goober!" realization that . maybe . the . problem . might . be . the . lather . So I went back to the old Gillette multiblade cartridge razor (Mach 3) and gingerly tried a bunch of different soaps and creams. Eureka! For me, Proraso Green (menthol) and TOBS Avocado and CO Bigelow were all very irritating. However, I found that J M Fraser and Mama Bear's Unscented and Proraso Ultra Sensitive were just fine for me - wonderful in fact. Irritation gone.

Armed with this new discovery (whatever my problem may be, I now KNOW it ain't the lather), I was able to work my way through a blade sampler pack, and found two or three brands that gave me very close shaves. DFS/BBS shaves.

Contrary to the usual wetshaving forum advice, for me the most important factor was choice of soap or cream. #2 was choice of DE blade, #3 was method of prep, and #4 was choice of razor. As everyone warned, my mileage DID vary!

Now that I've got a setup that works well, which reliably & repeatably gives irritation-free, BBS shaves, I experiment with new soaps and creams. TOBS Avocado and Proraso still irritate me severely, but I have found several dozen soaps and creams that don't. Diety be praised, one of the ones that works well for my skin is Mitchell's Wool Fat and another is Castle Forbes. I am very happy about those two!

Final note: in case your face happens to be exactly like mine (UNlikely), here's a piece of trivia: my favorite lather of all the 75+ that I've tried, comes from Ingram cream in a tube. I find Ingram's transcendently wonderful. I bought several more tubes as a safety measure, in case a Zombie Apocalypse interrupts the normal lines of supply.

*Edit- and oh by the way, one of the soaps that does NOT irritate my sensitive skin, is VULFIX SANDALWOOD SHAVING CREAM , curiously*

I have been shaving off and on for about 15 years now. My motto is a quality tool to be used on my quality tool. Here are some things that could be a problem.

• Wrong Razor - Don't use crappy disposables. This isn't your face. These were my go to for awhile, but I have moved over to the Gillette Men's Body Razors. I like the Gillette's better as they seem to last much longer. As soon as the protective coating around the Schick's wear off you might as well be using scissors.
  
  
• Old/Worn Razor - If it tugs at all toss it.
  
  
• Trim - Haven't shaved in a while? Use a quality electric trimmer. I use the a Norelco QT4070. I originally bought it for my beard, but I have it very useful elsewhere. The shorter the hairs are when you go to shave, the less pull you are going to generate with the razor. That leads to less aggravated skin.
  
  
• Shaving Lotion - Get some body shaving lotion to use with it. There are loads of brands out there. While your at it throw that crappy Barbasol away and get something decent to shave with for your face.
  
  
• Going against the Grain - I don't recommend it for the pubic mound. On the shaft or balls, it becomes more a matter of where the razor can fit at the correct angle than which direction the hair grows.
  
  
• Aftercare - To deal with the razor burn that you will get while your skin isn't use to shaving yet, get some Neosporin and rub it on gently. There are also products made specifically for post-pubic shaving. After some trial and error, I still feel like Neosporin does the same quality job without the added scent and for a half the price.
  
  Before you try any of this let your skin heal.

Here are my tips:

-Some people will tell you to "shave down" but that ignores the fact that some people have hair that goes a different direction. Shave with the direction of your hair; move the razor in the same direction that your hair lays. On my cheeks, my hair goes down, but on my neck it goes back toward my ears. Yours is probably different. If you want a closer shave, go against the grain, but only after you've gone with the grain and smoothed things out.

-It's a little counter-intuitive, but a sharper blade will cut you less. You shouldn't use a blade for more than a handful (maybe five?) of shaves.

-Shave every day. I don't know about you, but I find that I'm much more likely to cut myself if I skip shaving for a few days. If I shave every day, the process is a lot smoother, I assume because the hairs are shorter and the blade gets caught less.

-Soak your face in hot water before a shave. Most people do this by soaking a washcloth and pressing it to their face. Supposedly it relaxes your hairs or something, I'm honestly not sure, but it seems to help.

-Experiment with different razor types. I personally use a safety razor (this one is a great, cheap starter if you're interested), but others swear by straight razors, and still others prefer the mainstream Gillette Mach Turbo Super 15-blade behemoths. Some people will tell you they're worthless and overpriced, but don't let the hipsters sway you; experiment and find what works for you.

Start with this.

It is a copy of the most mild DE razor ever invented (Gillette Tech), it is cheap yet well made, surprisingly. Practice with this and then branch out into high dollar (even then very cheap) razors. An EJ89 is a great place to start, as is a Merkur Classic (I use a Futur but they are $75 and require a bit of finesse).

Also get this

Seems expensive, but you get lots of different blades and you can try them and see which works best before you drop money. Feathers are known as sharpest, Derbys as the least. That does not mean one is better than the other--blade choice is the ultimate Your Mileage May Vary (YMMV). Try as many as you can to see what works for you.

Get a boar brush. Get this one and then branch out. Brushes are one of the coolest things about wet shaving. Once you get the hang of lather, you'll start collecting brushes. It's awesome. But that Omega is all you'll ever have to buy if you want.

Is there a Bath and Body works near you? If so, great! Proraso, one of the oldest and most respected shaving companies rebrands under CO Bigelow and it is dirt cheap. Their shampoo/body wash is great, and the shaving cream is fantastic. Very easy to lather. You can also get a tub of Taylor of Bond Street (TOBS) in any "flavor" and get great stuff. It lasts forever. I like the Avocado--it's very slick--and the Eton college--it smells amazing.

Go to your local drug store and buy Pinaud Clubman aftershave. It is cheap, and smells like an old barber shop--which is to say AMAZING. Apply this after you shave. It puts a bounce in your step like nothing else. While you are there get a styptic pencil, as you may nick yourself early on. Don't worry, nicking is painless but it can bleed a little and the styptic will halt it quick. Once you get the hang of tings you wont nick yourself at all.

And then you're set---but also FUCKED. Jade East aftershave rocks, as does Bay Rum (Pinaud or Captain's Choice), as does Old Spice...Merkur and Edwin Jagger make amazing razors, plus thrift stores and flea markets have old Gillettes...if the hobby bites you there is never enough!

Join us at /r/wicked_edge for more tips! We are a friendly bunch and can guide you through the early stages of enjoying a great hobby.

I'd suggest starting off with a Dorco razor starter kit. It's pretty cheap and has almost everything you need, aside from a brush and a shaving soap. Aftershave is completely optional, but it definitely improves the feel of your skin afterward. I use Chiseled Face soap, specifically Summer Storm and Ghost Town Barber.

Feel free to ask anything else. I've been shaving dual edge for a good year and a half now. Best choice I've made in regards to personal grooming.

What do I win?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B003BWNR9A/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&condition=new

(See the second merchant for free shipping w/o minimum order. Maggard's site had it at last check, too).

I just got two of these recently. They look like the same thing, my package was white though. I like it well enough to use it regularly. They're also cheap enough to just give away to anyone when I bring up Double Edge shaving.

I just did this recently.
This razor from amazon gets great reviews, was recommended all around on multiple forums, and has been regarded as a great entry razor. So far I love it.

This shaving soap

This brush

This razor sampler

These are working well for me, then again I'm still relatively new. The brush seams to be a great deal for starting off. Although I obviously haven't tried them all yet, it appears to have a decent representation of some of the most popular blades.

What about this pack?

http://smile.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B004UIZFQW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1415135503&sr=8-1&keywords=razor+blade+sample+pack

EDIT: Thanks. i just removed the 100 pack and got the one I posted above. Thanks!

Stop shaving with razors! Use electric trimmers.

What happens is a natural discoloration around the facial hair area tends to develop. I use a trimmer, its great. Although It does make me look "younger" simply because my skin is smooth/isn't discolored and (when fully shaven) it looks like I can't even grow any type of beard. I take looking 'young' as a compliment though.

I have one. It was a gift but I wanted it. It has a nice weight to it, It isn't made of pot metal or sintered stainless steel. I'll never have to buy (and I do not collect) another DE. It has a nice weight to it, it is not an aggressive shaver, and the handle has knurling that gives a nice grip.

Does it give a better shave than my $15 Gillette butterfly I got in an antique store? No. And It seems that it was buy it for one life prir to me. Perhaps not even better than a Sodial razor (sp?).

Even on amazon they have dropped the prices from what it was just a year ago. If you want a DE, most will last a long time if never dropped. If you want this razor, it is a good deal.

I would say, yes, it is worth it once you get your technique down pat. There isnt much to invest since you have all the other stuff so you would just need a DE and some blades! You can get a Solial cheap on Amazon just to test the waters :)

Oh yeah you can also sell the SR and strop on /r/Shave_Bazaar if you really decide it is not for you.

I use the pink Panasonic wet/dry shaver and I always keep it fully charged. The less power it has the more it pulls and kinda hurts. So every couple of nights I plug it in. And I've also noticed that if I skip a day it stings a little more, so I try to avoid lazy Sundays for that reason. I think the shorter the hair, the better. All that said I've never cut myself even in the delicate lady bit areas.

https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-ES2207P-Electric-3-Blade-Cordless/dp/B0018A32XS

I find your advice with being comfortable with your genital region very important. Even shaving in the anal region well I sit in good lighting and put a towel under me get out the shaving cream and use a razor. It's the only way to get everything if you are worried about it. You notice you miss a lot generally in the shower to be hairless. Also around the anus go with the the grain of the skin not the opposite direction.

If anyone here doesn't want to wax...
I use an electric razor, this one. Cheap and effective.

Panasonic Electric Shaver for... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0018A32XS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I use it for the pubic patch area (courser hair) and I never get ingrown hairs and razor shave the rest of the crotch area and the bikini line. Another good thing if you use this razor on the patch area just buy a dry brush like this

Dry Skin Body Brush - Improves... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LIBEBTG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share.

You can make the tiny hairs under the skin come out before shaving and you are smooth. You don't even have to shower first to get a smooth shave. I usually wait 2 days maybe 3 to do it again.
Also I never wear underwear unless I'm on my period. This helps a lot with ingrorowns. I never have any.

Would love to try waxing though. Just hate letting it grow out that much.

You'll get faster. You'll need to figure some stuff out for laser, if you go down that route. I eventually found that pre-surgery prep videos are a good way to learn to shave sensitive areas.

I also found that I don't need to be silky smooth every day. I still shave my face with a Harry's razor and cream (sometimes twice a day), and if I need to shave my legs (or anything else) I use a Harry's razor with a thin layer EOS cream shave. It's more like a shaving lotion or butter, and comes in a pump.

I always shave with the grain, and then can follow against if I need to and the area isn't too sensitive.

But the real game changer for me has been this electric razor. I did considerable review shopping before I found it, and it's glorious. You can replace the blades and foils, it works wet or dry, has a trimmer, and good power. Per the reviews, only use it if you are super wet (I use the same cream shave in this case) or super dry. When I shave dry, I can get most of my body in about 20 minutes. I pull down with the grain of the hair, slightly angling the razor so the clipper part (not extended) catches long hair before it reaches the foil. I then pull back in the opposite direction. If I need to, I can make multiple passes without irritation. I'll usually just hit one half of a limb at a time, making quick down/up strokes, and then touch up anything I miss. No, it's not as smooth as a razor shave, but it's pretty freaking good, and I can save the hard work for those days when I expect to be skin to skin with someone.

Look up Peggys Stitch Eraser. This is standard equipment in industrial embroidery shops. Will make pretty fast work of removing embroideries. Takes a little practice to get the hang of using it...but it will remove the most ridiculously dense embroideries....simple text can be removed in jsut a few minutes.


AKA the wahl peanut(available on amazon or at sally beauty), tho not sure if the head the exact same....i have one for my beard at home, I should try it on embroidery to see if it works the same.

Edit: DO NOT waste your time with the cordless model, get the one that plugs in....you'll appreciate that quickly.

edit 2: short video...and this guy does it with no backing, your shirts probably have backing which makes it even easier.

edit 3: if you PM me a photo of the company logo stitched on a shirt I'll tell you how easy it will be to remove. Some embroideries are easier than others...and some arent worth your trouble cuz you'll end up with holes all over your garment.

http://www.amazon.com/Groom-Mate-Platinum-Nose-Trimmer/dp/B000EBFJXS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1406033945&sr=8-2&keywords=nostril+trimmer

I use this. Good for keeping the backyard lawn trimmed.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000HQ0L2E?pc_redir=1410447312&robot_redir=1

I'm serious, changed my life.

Barbasol is cheap but it irritated my skin to the point I was getting rosacea (a not good skin condition.) Now I use Arko (Amazon link) at about $1/stick and each stick lasts about 3 months. It's been great on my skin, does not require a bowl to lather, and works great.

I got the one below, it’s good for day to day leg shaving and arm pits, for your bits, it is ok for broad grooming but you will still want a regular razor for fine detail


https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-ES2207P-Electric-3-Blade-Cordless/dp/B0018A32XS?crid=2KDY7J958KDBI&keywords=electric+razor+for+women&qid=1537890666&sprefix=electric+ra&sr=8-3&ref=mp_s_a_1_3

I highly recommend that subreddit, it has helped tremendously in dealing with my sensitive skin and irritations due to bad shaving techniques/products. As for shaving soaps I would recommend trying Mystic Water Soap's Sensitive Skin and Proraso White, I have very sensitive skin and those soaps have worked very well for me. Also for aftershaves try using Thayer's witch hazel. Hope this helps!

Haven't tried the Weishi before but I have heard some positive comments on them as a budget option.


Alternatively you could try the Maggard MR1. My first safety was a Merkur 23c. While it's a bit more than your budget, I can say from experience that it is a very mild razor if you're worries about irritation.


As far as price goes, there are solid 'cheap' razors such as those mentioned. Generally speaking they'll be made of less expensive zinc alloys that may be more susceptible to breakage (such as from dropping) but that doesn't mean they can't give you many years of good shaves.


I usually use a blade 5 times before changing. I have thick facial hair so I'm not sure how that might translate to your situation. I know others get more than that so your mileage will definitely vary. The good news is that buying in bulk (100) is cheap. I bought 100 Gillette Silver Blues almost 2 years ago and still have some left.

U/Trooze knows what’s up.

Go slow, and take your time. You’ll get faster as you do it more, rushing is when you hurt yourself. Shave after you shower. The hot water will soften you’re facial hair, and washing your face will get the gunk of your skin, allowing for an easier job.

Razors are hella expensive. I found an old-style safety razor like this one for ten bucks at an antique shop and bought 100 blades for it for $10 on amazon. The new ones are mostly expensive gimmicks. The old safety razor works just as well, and is easier to work in my mind, since there’s weight to it.

Invest in some quality aftershave. Back when I was clean-shaven, I found an Old Spice one I liked. It smelled nice, and made the razor burn go away.

Also, if your facial hair is thin, or patchy, it’s nothing to be ashamed of, I couldn’t grow a full beard till I was almost 30. Lots of dudes can’t ever grow a lumberjack beard. Remember though, with facial hair, it’s kind of an all or nothing thing. Half-stache’s don’t look great, so think long and hard about growing stuff out.

You’ll be fine.

Indians, along with people of Mediterranean, African & Middle eastern descent have extraordinarily tough beards. Cartridge razors designed in countries with populations which shave daily & have lighter facial growth are not always adequate for those of heavier growth. In addition, Indians often have oily skin. Indians can therefore be very prone to pseudofolliculitis barbae, & multiblade razors can do damage to the skin of those with this condition.

It is therefore advisable for Indians to use a single blade razor & pay greater attention to pre-shave prep. Always have a shower or bath before your shave & soap up the area to be shaved. You may have noticed that barbers often use a hot wet towel on their clients to soften it before shaving.

Unfortunately, there are no decent DE starter sets available in India. Sets like that of Bombay Shave Co, & others rely on rebranded imported razors & there does seem to be greater importance placed on their looks than on their performance. These sets are best avoided. Starter sets can be imported, but the combination of our import duties, transportation costs etc can make them quite expensive. They are also not necessary, as it is possible to get decent equipment at a reasonable cost if bought separately. But if you do wish to, Shave Lounge UK & Maggards have good starter sets.

As far as individually available equipment is concerned, it can be broken down into shaving products like creams & soaps, shaving brushes, razors and their blades or cartridges, & aftershave treatments.

• Shaving products. There is absolutely no need to import anything here. India is a shaving cream powerhouse, & makes some of the best shaving creams available as far as performance goes. There are some Indian shaving creams which could improve a little on scent, but since the scent is washed off along with the lather, I do not consider it of great concern. https://www.badgerandblade.com/forum/threads/indian-shaving-creams-reviews.408456/Two of the best known Indian brands for shaving products are Godrej & Dettol, but there is such a wide variety available that almost all creams perform extremely well. There are not too many Indian made soaps. Godrej soap is available in most parts of the country. It is very cheap & is made of pure potassium lye, so it is capable of performing in the hardest of water, & breaking down the oil layer on the oiliest of skin,but will not have great protection in soft water. It makes an excellent superlather soap base, though. T&H, Trigodon, & the weirdly named Pink Woolf etc also sell soaps. I personally found that T&H soap has a somewhat average performance. Their creams are said to have stellar performance & scent, & T&H now has shops in most Indian cities. Trigodon & Pink Woolf soaps have good reputations. I have tried some imported products, but have been more often disappointed than not as far as the overall performance is concerned, though their scent is great.
  
• Shaving brushes. Some of the companies that sell starter sets & soaps also sell brushes. Parker, Pearl, Trigodon, Pink Woolf etc all have brushes available. I feel that they provide an average product as compared to their price , because genuine imported Omega boar brushes are available on Flipkart at a very reasonable cost. For some reason, Amazon India is overpriced for the very same brushes. https://www.flipkart.com/search?q=omega+brush&sort=relevanceOne Indian brush manufacturer has good brushes (Bilabrush) but their website sells their brushes at prices greater than genuine Omegas. Their Gio brush is sometimes available around ₹ 200 in Mumbai shops & is very good at that price.
  
• Razors. If you do wish to import shaving equipment, import razors. There are almost no decent manufacturers of DE razors in India. The best manufacturer is Parker, who exports razors in quantity, but most DE shavers who have bought a Parker razor in India have had to replace it due to quality issues. I have read of Indians who have had to replace theirs several times due to issues like unequal blade exposure, faulty construction, misalignment etc. It has been alleged that Indian manufacturers reserve their best products for export while sloughing off their rejects to locals. On the other hand, I've chatted on B&B with one Indian who has had no issues with his Variant. In general, though, Indian made razors are rather aggressive & not suitable for beginners. If you wish to buy locally, though, it is sometimes possible to source imported razors in imported goods shops or customs notified shops. I can personally recommend the Japanese Feather Popular TTO as being great for newbie & expert alike. It's also available on Flipkart/Amazon/Shopclues for about ₹ 900 onwards. https://www.amazon.in/Feather-Double-Razor-Popular-Blades/dp/B00VEICPZUSome Chinese Rimei, Baili & Weishi razors are also available. It is possible to get Yaqi's double open comb Mellon head from Aliexpress & mate it to an Indian razor handle.
  
• Blades. There are excellent DE blades available in the country, with considerable variety. There is absolutely no real need to import. If you use a cartridge razor, almost all cartridges are also available.
  
• Aftershave treatments: - Alum is easily available in pharmacists at almost throwaway rates. Witch hazel is not easily available, but I do not feel the lack. A wide variety of local & international aftershave splashes are available, as are balms, but these are not necessarily the same brands discussed on international shaving forums.
  
  ​
  
  ​
  
  Here is a shaving set under 2K.
  
  ​
  
  I strongly recommend buying the brush, shaving cream, alum & aftershave first. Start using them with your current razor. Get your new safety razor & blades later, once you have learned to build a good lather on your face with brush & shaving cream, & have started using the alum & aftershave regularly .
  
  If you have children in the house, be sure to keep blades & razor away from them.
  
  A) Feather Popular razor - Amazon ₹ 920
  
  https://www.amazon.in/Feather-Brand-Double-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=Feather+Brand&qid=1555049493&s=gateway&sr=8-6
  
  B) Gillette 7 o'clock Super Platinum razor blades at your Local pharmacy ₹ 55/-
  
  Omega 10218 or other at Flipkart ₹ 400/-
  
  C) Godrej/Dettol shaving cream - Local pharmacy about ₹80/-
  
  D) Alum block Local pharmacy ₹20/-
  
  E) Nivea aftershave or balm at your Local pharmacy ₹250/-
  
  Total -₹1725/-
  
  Please note that you could very easily spend much more. And, as time goes by, & you add more products, razors & other stuff, you'll wonder how that original outlay more than quadrupled...
  
  Technique: - the first part is the most difficult - Keep your new DE razor aside while you learn to use the rest of your equipment.
  
  Start by learning the hair growth pattern of your face - the direction of the grain. Print this out.
  
  https://imgur.com/EPymE
  
  ​
  
  Draw the main direction of growth in each section & stick it near your mirror.
  
  Once you've done that, start breaking in your new brush. Wash it a few times with liquid hand soap. Use it with your shaving cream to lather up. Continue using your current razor during this time.
  
  After a week or so, the lather produced will be better than that you got from your can of foam/gel. This is the time to break out your new DE.
  
  Watch the videos to learn how to shave.
  
  http://www.reddit.com/r/wicked_edge/wiki/videos/
  
  Initially, shave one WTG pass, & do your XTG pass with your current cartridge razor. As time goes by & your technique improves, you can increase the DE passes & reduce the M3 passes.

I bought a stupid trimmer. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0049LUI9O/ref=oh_details_o07_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I don't think there is an elegant solution. Unless you can convince Oliva Wilde to come over and personally tweek them for you.

Some tips:

• You should try an aluminum block after you shave. here Or a Styptic Pen, but I prefer the block personally.
  
  
• A hot shower right before you shave will help as well along with a fresh razor.
  
  
• When you shave, don't fight it if you feel the hair pulling. Just kind of let the razor do its thing and shave the hair.
  
  
• Only shave with the grain. varies by location on your face/neck, usually down, but not always.
  
  
• If your shaving for work daily, your boss isn't going to check for smoothness, so it just has to look good. You might be pressing too hard.
  
  
• Warm water on the face to start the shave, cool water on the face after the shave and after aluminum block.
  
  
• A good quality after shave lotion will further reduce skin irritation. I like Prosaro.
  
  
• You could consider buying some preshave, but I don't use those. Good old warm water works fine for me.
  
  
• Also, check out r/wicked edge as has been suggested by exaltedbladder.
  
  *edit- formatting

Then: January, 2014

• Escali 100% Pure Badger
  
• Merkur 23C? (Still don't know for sure)
  
• TOBS Jermyn Street Collection Shave Cream
  
• Shark Super Chrome/Stainless (After much experimentation)
  
• Glass Tupperware type bowl from kitchen(for lathering)
  
• TOBS Jermyn Street Collection Cologne
  
• OSMA Alum Bloc (Added a few weeks later.
  
• Nivea Sensitive Aftershave Balm
  
  Now:
  
  
• FS 30mm Finest & Stirling 26mm Finest Ivory. Depending on where on my body I am shaving.
  
• Rockwell 6S w/ #4 Plate
  
• Soap: A lot. Current favorites are B&M Hallows, and Stirling Electric Sheep.
  
• Feather New Hi Stainless - Though still experimenting after getting the 6S.
  
• Georgetown Pottery G20 Scuttle - Cobalt & Purple
  
• OSMA Alum Bloc
  
• Post Shave: Chatillon Lux Colbeck or Stirling Witchhazel and Aloe (various samples)
  
• Nivea Sensitive Aftershave Balm

This Lord one is basic and great. For me I haven't noticed big differences among the razors themselves at a low price point (can't speak for the more expensive ones) but the blades themselves make a difference. Good sample pack for blades that I worked through over the course of like 2 years (mama don't shave that often..)

I have to say my favorites were the Feather, BUT I just resumed DE shaving this month and got a big pack of the Feather blades alone and they were incredibly aggressive- I think I'm not used to the angle of shave anymore, so I should've started with a sample pack again. The Derby ones were what I "learned" on and then graduated to Feather and liked those, but I think it was with the experience points I'd gathered ;)

It's reddit, with a title that ambiguous you have to be prepared for these things. :P

On a more serious note, get one of those cheap disposable razor/trimmer combos and you can use the trimmer part if you don't want to shave or have the option of both. Advantages to trimmer part = no stubble, cheaper than clippers, reusable, and it's much harder to cut yourself than a razor. Also it's not all or nothing and you have more control over length of hair.

http://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Fusion-Proglide-Groomer-Trimmer/dp/B0062IWQVU

http://www.amazon.com/Schick-93002140-Quattro-Titanium-Trimmer/dp/B001MIZMRK

Honestly, I would go with a Gillette Slim Adjustable. You can get them from 20-50 bucks on eBay and they are a razor that will last for ever. I've got nothing but great things to say about them. Being adjustable if you have a trouble spot dial it down and viola. Here is one for 28 bucks
I cannot recommend this razor enough. It shaves like a Gillette Fatboy but at a fraction of the cost.

Review 1

Review 2


Tube is fine. I've used Proraso green, Speick and Jack Black Beard Lube they all did ok. Still have them for traveling but at the house I foam up. I get a much better shave and less irritation if I use Checke and Speake pucks. YMMV It really doesn't take me that much longer in the morning to make a lather than out of a tube.

Edit: added and checked links

Edit 2: I'm a dumbass

[For that same $3....minus $.045] (http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Double-Shaver-Nonslip-Handle/dp/B0050HO9MI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1407550882&sr=8-4&keywords=safety+razor)

I have a few of these (not the same exact brand, but they're all the same Chinese makes really and differ from one to the next even with the same brand). They're as BIFL as any Merkur, and honestly, I like them a lot...

Edit: this is the one I have. Sucks it's now a $6 add on item. I bought a few for like 2.75$ a few years back.

Basic Kit - under $50:
Razor: $10.99
Brush: $10.69
Soap - $3.59
Blade Sampler - $22.99
Nivea shave balm for sensitive skin - $5 at walmart

Hijacking comment. Some people experience different things with different blades. Find one of the variety packs and discover which blades you prefer.

I personally really like the Sharp and Astra blades.

The best budget beginner razor

Some good soap

A good brush

Total: about $25

This is what i started with and it works like a charm... would recommend feather blades over lord but that's just my opinion.

Most people would probably tell you to start with a Badger brush, as they're sort of considered the top (Don't even start to worry about the different grades of badger hair. Just buy what you can afford if you go this route)

Personally, I chose the this as my first brush. Works well in a bowl and for face lathering. Takes a bit of time to break in (2 weeks maybe?) but it's really nice once it's done.

Putting this here as well because someone recommended to post it
here.

Hey all,  I'm pretty new to wet shaving and I'm looking to upgrade my razor. Currently, I've been shaving with an "El Grande" from WSP (wet shaving products) that my brother gave me, but I'm trying to upgrade to a better razor. I found two that might be worth their salt and I was wondering what other people thought of them. 

https://standardrazors.com/products/standard-razors-clearance

And

https://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Double-Safety-Regular/dp/B003LW4LJK?th=1

I'm also looking into trying new blades and I already know about tryablade.com, but I just haven't picked any out yet. Also, if you want to suggest a completely different razor that would be fine, too. 

I like this Phillips trimmer because it's got a built-in vacuum to keep the trimmed hair from making a mess on the sink.

[I use this guy] (https://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-BeardTrimmer-adjustable-QT4070/dp/B003U8ESI4)

Questions|Answers
:--|:--
Unlimited budget, no worries about making profits, ridiculous amount of technology and talent available: What kind of game would you make? Would you even make a game?|The truth is I always act as if I didn't have to worry about profits, had all the money in the world, and no technical limits. Maybe that's why my games are considered "niche," why they go over budget, and why my programmers have to work so hard. So basically, I'd be doing exactly what I'm doing right now! :)
That's a bit of a disheartening answer because there are technical limitations to video games. imagine a full VR psychonauts... how trippy would that be?|Yeah, I guess. But I've never felt limited by technology. There's tons of interesting stuff that can be done on current technology. We're limited more by our creativity than by our technology.
You can! Why do people think I'm not answering questions about Psychonauts?|Oh goddamn you Chris Remo!
What do we need to do to convince you to regrow the beard? Charitable donations? Animal Sacrifice?|Men need to embrace dynamic facial hair. Change is good. Sometimes there will be a beard, some times not. Some times a half beard, soul patch, or chinstrap. Neckbeard, Lemmy handlebar, whatever. But please feel free to make charitable donations nonetheless!
In regard to your dynamic hair, which razor(s) do you use as your Tim Schaver?|Not sure if it's this exactly, but it's like this: Link to www.amazon.com
I try to explain this to people when ever i cut my beard off to do something new. when you see yourself every day, a little change goes a long way.|Keep them guessing. They'll complain, but secretly they like it.
You you're accepting sacrificial goats then?|Depends. Can you make bacon from goat meat?
How was it working with Jack Black?|The best. Super nice guy. Really funny. Really serious gamer, too.

View the full table on /r/tabled! | Last updated: 2013-05-14 05:08 UTC

This comment was generated by a robot! Send all complaints to epsy.

Merkur razor. Here is a nice starter. ($32.34)


Feather Double Edge Blades, 50 Count ($11.77)

A year's worth of shaving for one month of Dollar Shave Club

A lot of people steer towards /r/wicked_edge but personally they over complicate it and make it 'a thing'. I was using £10 equipment at one point but found a low-mid range kit to be fine.

Assuming you're American go for -
Handle (holds the blade)
https://www.amazon.com/WEISHI-Nostalgic-Handle-Butterfly-Double/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=DE+RAZOR&qid=1556123865&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Blades -
https://www.amazon.com/Derby-Extra-Double-Razor-Blades/dp/B004SGKMA0/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=derby+blades&qid=1556124313&s=gateway&sr=8-4
One of these lasted me 4 years and I have thick hair

Optional -
Soap -
https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Soap-Refreshing-Toning/dp/B00837YY18/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=proraso&qid=1556124397&s=gateway&sr=8-3

lasts 9-12 months+ works best with single blade

Brush -
https://www.amazon.com/Premium-Shaving-Handmade-Professional-Engineered/dp/B07F71PXX2/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=shaving+brush&qid=1556124451&s=gateway&sr=8-4

To lather the soap and apply to face.
Basically the only difference between the can of shaving foam and a soap dish + brush is the latter being cheaper, less aggressive on the face (with time investment of a month tops) and quality of shave.

Any questions ping them across.

Ill add pictures to help! If you use a razor like https://www.amazon.com/Weishi-Nostalgic-Handle-Butterfly-Double/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=safety+razor&qid=1573596649&sr=8-3 or https://www.amazon.com/BEST-Straight-Razor-Japanese-Biblical/dp/B06XY2GY7G
Prince and Dirty are best. They are like shaving lotion, with no soap.

If you use a disposable razor like this https://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Venus-Extra-Smooth-Womens/dp/B000XVSNTQ/ref=sxin_3_af-pna-1_d2c6f193495c58c44229e8cac05cdd79a83edf59?keywords=razor&pd_rd_i=B000XVSNTQ&pd_rd_r=dd2f723a-d83e-473d-b1c2-0cdc4ad898cf&pd_rd_w=H4TlQ&pd_rd_wg=y3B2j&pf_rd_p=5e567722-c416-4b51-89d9-de8c438fe11e&pf_rd_r=S16SE5TB2MJVTASKGMDD&qid=1573596704, FUN moldable soap and D'Fluff whipped shaving soap are great!

Ordered Feather blades. They'll be here on Monday.

The razor itself arrives today (a WEISHI), but I've read that it's probably best to not use the included blades. So I'll wait 'til Monday.

The Weishi is a clone of the Flare Tip Superspeeds.

The Lord L5 and Sodial are both Gillette Tech clones

The Parker 96R emulates the looks but not adjustment of the Gillette Super Adjustable

The iKon Open Comb is heavily inspired by the Gillette NEW

Cartridge Razor

• Probably the most common razor type nowadays. They'll get the job done and you'll get a decent shave too.
  
  
• The Gillette Mach 3 (three blades), the Gillette Fusion (five blades) and the Wilkinson Sword Quattro (four blades) are probably the most common cartridge razors. They are widely available.
  
  
• You may also see some variations on the above razors. For example, the Fusion ProGlide Power is a battery-operated Fusion that vibrates, and is supposed to help the hair stand on end for a better shave. Some like it, some don't. Your call.
  
  Advantages
  
  

1. Technique matters less with this type of razor because most of them have a pivoting head that runs along the contours of your face. This reduces the chance of you getting the angle wrong and cutting yourself.
   
   
2. Supplies for this type of razor are readily available pretty much anywhere.
   
   Disadvantages
   
   
3. The replacement cartridges are extremely expensive for what they actually are. Gillette's (and other manufacturers') business model is to sell the handle for cheap and charge a fortune for the blades because you've already made the investment in the handle.
   
   
4. The cartridges tend to cut and tug your hair out. This can irritate those with particularly sensitive skin and many people get razor bumps when using these. As a general rule, the more blades a cartridge has, the more likely you'll have this tugging effect. If you don't have sensitive skin, then it should be fine.
   
   
5. These cartridge razors tend to get clogged with hair easily. The problem appears to be worse as the number of blades increases, ergo, the five blade Fusion will clog more easily than the three blade Mach 3.
   
   Technique
   
   

• Most people tend to use foam or gel with this type of razor.
  
  
• A WTG pass will suffice but go ATG too if you can (see "Passes" section below).
  
  
  *
  
  
  Double Edge (DE) Safety Razor**
  
  
• They look like this!
  
  
• Typically range from $20 to $60. I recommend the Merkur 38C as a good beginner's razor. Other reputable brands include Parker and Edwin Jagger. Weishi aren't bad either.
  
  
• These handles can (and often do) last you for life. You can also find them in antique shops if you look hard enough.
  
  Advantages
  
  

1. Blades for these razors are obscenely cheap in comparison to cartridge razors. In the UK, I can buy a 100 pack of Astra blades (my favourite brand) for about £9 on Amazon. That could easily last me a year of shaving on a near-daily basis.
   
   
2. The closeness of a DE shave is unbeatable IMO.
   
   
3. Your blades won't clog up with hair.
   
   
4. There is a certain enjoyment in mastering the art of a DE shave. This cannot be explained - only experienced.
   
   Disadvantages
   
   
5. A DE razor does not typically have a pivoting head like cartridge razors. That means you have to learn the proper technique or you're going to get a few nicks.
   
   
6. There is a little bit of a learning curve. It's nothing most people can't handle. However, if you're impatient or clumsy, DE might not be for you.
   
   
   Technique
   
   

• Hold the razor so it's comfortable, but keep your hand away from the face and more towards the end of the handle. You'll have better control over your wrist and the blade angle.
  
  
• Use minimal pressure. Let the blade do the work for you.
  
  
• Your first pass should be WTG. Your second pass should be XTG. Your third pass should be ATG (see "Passes" section below).
  
  
• Make sure the bathroom is nice and quiet. Listen for the blades cutting the hair so you'll know your perfect angle. It'll eventually be second nature.
  
  
• If you use a DE razor, you could use foam or gel, but the preferred method for most of us is to buy a shaving brush and some shaving soap or a shaving stick. Then you can use this to make lather. This video is a great guide on how to make lather.
  
  
• Since nicks are a bit more likely (especially in the early days) it's worth you buying a styptic pencil or alum block to seal up your cuts. An alum block is also good for soothing razor burn and also has antiseptic properties.
  
  *
  
  Electric Razor**
  
  
• No introductions necessary.
  
  Advantages
  
  

1. Pretty quick.
   
   
2. Can be used on dry skin. No need for shaving soap/foam/gel.
   
   
3. Your odds of cutting yourself are pretty damn slim!
   
   Disadvantages
   
   
4. Shave quality is severely reduced. You will never get as close a shave with one of these as you will with a cartridge razor or a DE razor.
   
   
5. Can be pretty harsh on sensitive skin. Try a pre-shave oil to see if this helps.
   
   
6. Requires either a power socket or battery power.
   
   Technique
   
   

• Oh, come on!
  
  
  
  Preparing the Face
  
  This differs for everyone. Make of it what you will. The general idea is just to get the face moisturised and the hair nice and soft.
  
  I tend to exfoliate my face with an exfoliating scrub, then rinse and apply a pre-shave oil or cream - I use this.
  
  
  
  Applying Shaving Lubricant
  
  This doesn't apply to electric razor users. You guys don't need it.
  
  If you're using a gel or foam, just apply it to the face.
  
  If you're using a shave soap and brush combination, your technique is a bit more important (but totally worth it):
  
  

1. Grab a mug, bowl, or some other vessel.
   
   
2. Wet your shaving brush with (preferably warm) water.
   
   
3. Either apply some soap to the end of the wet brush or put some soap in the mug.
   
   
4. Swirl that brush around in the soap.
   
   
5. Results will vary depending on the soap you're using; the quality of the brush; the softness, temperature and amount of water. If it's not really "whipping" up, consider adding a little more water.
   
   
6. Apply to face at desired consistency.
   
   If you're still having trouble, this is a good video on how to make lather.
   
   *
   
   Passes**
   
   There are three directions you can shave in. Shaving in a specific direction is known as a pass:
   
   

• With the grain (WTG) - shaving in the same direction as the hair grows. You could get away with doing just this. The shave will be socially acceptable, but it won't feel like a great shave.
  
  
• Against the grain (ATG) - shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth. This can be a little harsh if your skin is sensitive. This is especially true if you're new or haven't done good face prep.
  
  
• Across the grain (XTG) - Yep, you guessed it! Shaving across the direction of hair growth. This is a good compromise if you're finding ATG too rough on the skin.
  
  Here is a video about the different types of passes.
  
  *
  
  Post-Shave**
  
  
• If you bought an alum block, by all means run it under water and apply to your face. It'll help to seal cuts, close pores, and also acts as an antiseptic.
  
  
• If you don't have an alum block, splash some cold water on the face to help seal pores.
  
  
• Got nicks or cuts? Either apply an alum block or a styptic pencil. If you don't have these (you should), then you can just rip up some tiny pieces of toilet paper and stick them to your cuts for a few minutes. You can do this as you go along or at the end of the shave. Your call.
  
  
• Apply an aftershave lotion or balm. I wouldn't recommend any harsh aftershave sprays yet. If you've just finished shaving, you've got to treat your skin like a princess. Go for a soothing balm like this one (sorry, I love Proraso). I always use an after shave lotion with little or no alcohol, because alcohol dries your face out and makes you look older.
  
  
  
  Suggested Brands
  
  Razors - Gillette, Wilkinson Sword, Merkur, Parker, Edwin Jagger, Weishi, The Bluebeard's Revenge, Muhle.
  
  Blades - Merkur, Astra, Gillette, Shark, Derby, Lord, Feather, Wilkinson Sword.
  
  You can also buy sample packs like this one.
  
  Shaving Soaps/Sticks - Taylor of Old Bond St, Proraso, Erasmic, Trufitt & Hill, The Art of Shaving, Palmolive, Arko, Omega, Crabtree & Evelyn, Castle Forbes.
  
  Avoid Col. Conk
  
  Lotions/Creams/Oils/Gels - Taylor of Old Bond St, Proraso, Trufitt & Hill, Jack Black, Crabtree & Evelyn, Nivea, Gillette, The Art of Shaving, etc.
  
  
  
  I have intentionally left out straight razors and shavettes because you said you don't want to cut yourself. These have a much steeper learning curve than the other methods I have discussed. You probably will cut yourself if you attempt to use these.
  
  If you would like any further information about shaving, please feel free to message me, comment here, or visit /r/Wicked_Edge. Thank you!
  
  
  

I use the Omega 10048 (bought off Amazon) and I'm happy with it.

It's a big brush, though. The 10049 is a bit smaller.

Amazon does have the Omega 48 boar brushes for about 10 bucks.
Link.
I ordered this one and I love it. Can't beat it for the price.

Taylor of Old Bond Street and Geo F Trumper are both London-based companies with a very good reputation here. Both companies offer a sandalwood variety of shave soap. For around £10 you should be able to get a 6 oz soap of either in a plastic tub, or you can upgrade to Geo F Trumper in a wooden bowl for about £20.

Edwin Jagger is a company based out of Sheffield that offers very nice razors for around £20. Any that start with DE8_ are good, they all have the same head... it just comes down to the handle for example DE86 has a faux-ebony handle but DE89 is all chrome... the cutting head is the same on both.

A silvertip (highest quality) badger brush will run you at least £20, so as you can probably start to see, getting a soap, brush, and razor all for £30-40 will be tricky. If you downgrade to a boar brush you can get one for about £10 which will bring all 3 products to about £40. A boar brush isn't "worse", it's just different -- many people prefer it over badger. It's also more humane as the badgers need to be killed to harvest their hair. Otherwise you will need to start getting into lower-quality soaps and razors to offset the cost of the badger brush, or spend at least an extra tenner.

For example here are some amazon.co.uk links for you, there are probably other UK-based shaving websites that carry all these as well, or if you live in a major city you might even have a physical shave shop:

Razor

Shaving soap

Boar brush (personally I would look for one with a wooden handle though, I think it's classier than the plastic. If you want to stick with plastic, they come in a variety of colours)

I intentionally picked British-made products for you since you want to incorporate strong traditional and classic themes, but other companies like Merkur (German), Gillette (American), Parker (Indian) also make good razors that you might want to take a look at. I'm also assuming you want a brand new razor and not something vintage. Proraso is a nice Italian soap I use myself that will probably cost you £5 if the others are a bit too expensive.


You can add in an aftershave but that will again be another £10 or so, same with a bowl. If you want something classic and like an aftershave, I'd pick up an alum block instead. It's a naturally-occuring mineral that acts as an astringent and antiseptic -- you run it over your face after shaving to close your pores and prevent razor bumps, etc. Brand generally doesn't matter, it's all the same chunk of rock. I think a bowl is an unnecessary extra cost, any cereal bowl or latte mug can be used. If anything, just go to a charity shop and pick out the nicest mug you can get for £1-2. The bowl is used to produce your lather... you swirl the brush on the soap for 30-60 seconds to load it, and then transfer to the bowl and the lather will grow into something like a normal shaving cream when you stir it for a couple minutes. You can also lather directly onto your face or in the palm of your hand if preferred too.

If he has any questions on how to use the stuff, just direct him our way :)

Looks like and Edwin Jagger de89bl

You could always buy this bad boy and do the perma-stubble look. Even if you are patchy in place, if you do perpetual stubby with an electric razor, eventually the thinner parts will catch up. Or should.

Mine doesn't cut too long, if anything once in a while I cut too short. This one has a guard that rests near the trimmers as low as 1mm. Once I got this bad boy, I never looked back.

Yes, I'm someone with a lot of opinions and experience maintaining my junk hair. Maybe it's odd, or maybe it's my calling.

I use the cheaper Norelco QT4070 primarily because it has a vacuum. Vacuum beard shavers are amazing.

Wahl Professional 8685 Peanut Classic Clipper/Trimmer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00011K2BA/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_b3BOub1V1Q5RE



Wahl Peanut, this thing is awesome. I would avoid getting white, though.

I have a peanut trimmer made by wahl. It is seriously the bomb-dot-com. It is what my barber uses to cut around my ears. Very powerful, small and maneuverable. I put on the shortest guard and trim things up every so often. When it starts to get unruly i cut it again. Its nice cause it keeps my shit in check but isnt like shaving which i find uncomfortable (and weird looking). It nice cause you can use on your other beard too, although im just one month on t so it will be awhile before i get my upstairs beard.

If you want to trim just nose hair get this: https://www.amazon.com/Groom-Mate-Platinum-Nose-Trimmer/dp/B000EBFJXS no batteries, stainless steel, easily cleaned, and I have been pleased with it.

i use one of these and love it. good way to multitask while watching tv and never runs out of batteries. plus it's funny when you blow your nose a few hours later and the snot is full of tiny nose hairs.

$25. Worth it.

When you say mug of Arko, is it this? If so, does it smell the same as this?

Yes! This was something I put a lot of thought into when I was really sick.

• /u/mnicoleb1773 already mentioned body wipes, which is an essential for the spoonie life. We're living in the golden age of body wipes and I love it. There are the medical grade ones (like these) and the fancier ones they sell in stores now for, like, "active people on the go", and the deodorant ones just for underarms, or whatever. For vulva-owners, I definitely recommend a wipe designed for that area.
  
  
• After the wipes, a good body powder is sometimes helpful (I love Lush's "silky underwear" to use under arms and the underboob area).
  
  
• For hair, if yours is short enough you can use rinse-free shampoo (some even come in a shower cap form where you just put it on and smoosh it around and throw it out). I usually fared better with dry shampoo and a re-hydrating spray for curly/wavy hair since my ends tend to dry out.
  
  
• And then there's shaving. Get an electric shaver that works dry. I got this basic one for $18, and it's absolutely good enough. I even use it on underarms after getting the area clean and thoroughly dry (a tiny bit of powder rubbed in before is helpful to reduce friction).
  
  
• Another option for shaving is the shave cream by EOS. It can be used dry! And it works as long as your razor is good and sharp and you go a tiny bit slower. (I wiped a damp washcloth on my legs first and that seemed to help) And then follow it with a damp cloth to get the residue. And you can just be sitting on the floor to do this anywhere.
  
  
• When I was feeling ambitious enough to shower, a stool was essential. My shower is tiny, and this one still fit. If you've got a bigger shower stall (or even a tub!) you can find some cuter shower chairs, even.
  
  
• And I would sit to floss. And really just, any time that it was logistically possible.

Get yourself a safety razor: https://www.amazon.ca/Merkur-Classic-3-Piece-Chromed-Polished/dp/B00374F5CY

And some razor blades: https://www.amazon.ca/Feather-Razor-Blades-Hi-stainless-Double/dp/B00BDM0XZG/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1519192443&sr=8-6&keywords=feather+blades

A fraction of the cost, more environmentally sound, and a better shave

Safety razor. The blades are like 15 bucks for 400 blades (pure metal) and the handle lasts forever. You can find the handles cheaper on eBay etc. Just boil them before using. But amazon will have them new too.

Edit: blades and handle .

I am not a crazy "MUST HAVE A $200 RAZOR AND COLLECT THEM ALL!!!!" person. This is my Feather razor

http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Razor-Hi-Stainless-Blades/dp/B003YJ70NY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1347725708&sr=8-3&keywords=feather+de+razor

It has served me well. I admit, I am cheap. I have been fine with just about every blade in my sampler packs, but this was just...painful. You could feel the blade getting stuck on stubble and pulling.

I mainly use Astra, because you can get the cheap boxes off Amazon, but I was in a bind...out of town and I needed a new blade. Should have just gone looking rugged.

That’s an ad for a different shaver this is the product the question was about.
Panasonic Nose Hair Trimmer and Ear Hair Trimmer ER-GN30-K, Men's Wet/Dry Trimmer with Vortex Cleaning System, Battery-Operated https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0049LUI9O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RJi1CbZ66SBXS

I used to have an electric trimmer something like this, and that worked okay but then I lost it during a move. I bought some 'eyebrow razors' and use that just for the center part of my nose with some baby oil, and a small scissors for further inside. I do it about once every week or so.

Cant help if you're looking to actually remove the hair by its root, as I've never done that before. Sounds too painful for me.

Tweezers? Sounds unpleasant, get yourself one of these.

I think that you would be better off with a double edge. It's less technically demanding to learn, you don't have to maintain the blade (you'll have to sharpen a straight edge from time to time and strop it daily) because it's disposable.

My philosophy is that shaving is less about the hair and more about the skin, caring for it and leaving it comfortable/not irritated. Even with a light beard, it's worth learning how to shave well because it's good for the skin and it's a pleasant and meditative ritual. The whole process of carefully prepping the skin, applying the soap/cream and doing a multiple pass shave is satisfying. Like a very masculine manicure, manly pampering. Mampering? No...

Anyway, if you click around this sub a bit, you'll notice that it's easy to go overboard and get too into it, and shave gear isn't cheap. But that's as much a blessing as a curse. I have three straight razors and a double edge, and I fully expect them to last me decades.

If I were you, I wouldn't jump in the pool quite that deep though. Here are the suggestions I make to most shave newbies interested in checking out the wetshaving gig:

Edwin Jagger DE 89:https://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Kelvin-Double-Safety/dp/B00K6Z24SK/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1469558129&sr=8-4&keywords=edwin+jagger+de

This is a simple, entry level razor. It comes with a few blades, but I'd recommend buying a sampler pack (and yes, I picked this pack because it has Feather blades, they are exceptional, if slightly too sharp for me. I use Sharks.):

https://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-SILVER-Blade-Sampler/dp/B004UIZFQW/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1469558238&sr=8-4&keywords=double+edge+sampler+pack

After that you'll need a brush. I'd just check the sidebar there, I use a wee scot and I suspect that not many would push you in that direction.

Then you'll want a nick stick, because dude... you'll cut yourself. It happens. Again, sidebar. But here's the cheap one that I use (don't cut myself much anymore so I don't invest in the good stuff these days):

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013H6AVM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And beyond that is the decision between soaps and cream and an aftershave. That one is up to personal preference in terms of scents and consistency.

I use this cream and like it fine: https://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=pd_cart_rp_1_4?ie=UTF8&dpID=519dkWyoBqL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_SL500_SR100%2C99_&psc=1&refRID=FTVMYYYARCCYAX4AK72N

I use this aftershave and love it to pieces, enough to spend 50 fucking dollars on it a few times a year: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007XMDQO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This isn't a super cheap set up (about $200) but you could get a cheaper aftershave and brush and be all set for under $100 and make improvements down the line if you decide you want to keep doing this.

I think the selections are great but, do have a few suggestions.
You may want to avoid an adjustable razor to start with. If you think you'll want one down the road don't want to have two DEs in your arsenal, then by all means get it now. But a lot of beginners blame their bad shaves on not being able to find the "right setting" on their adjustable. I like the EJ89 as a good starter. But if you do go with the Progress, don't play with the settings, play with your technique.

I also think you should get a blade sampler with a little more variety (read includes astras). This is a pretty good one, but I think the bigger the better.

Good Luck, and congrats on deciding to change your shave.

The superior low-cost sampler pack is this one. It's currently $17.95

Use the feathers last.

And the best way to use the sampler is to shave with the same brand until it runs out. You won't be able to decipher much as a beginner if you are changing the brand each shave IMO.

Thanks a ton for this! I'm a complete newcomer to DE and likely would have waited another few weeks before purchasing anything, but my dad just gave me a pretty nice looking adjustable Gillette razor.

This list helped me narrow down the sampler options available on Amazon to this pack, with this one in my wish list for some late-December fun.

Thanks again & wish me luck.

E: Now if only there were an equivalent list for every other required item...

Here is a good one

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UIZFQW/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i01

It has most of the ones that everyone says to try.

I recently purchased this

Works pretty good.

Not bad at all, just overpriced. You can get a 50 pack of Feathers on Amazon for just $15.

Tryablade.com is good because you can buy razors individually or in 5 packs, or try a bunch in a sample pack. Every person's preferences are different, so see what works best for you. I found that Personna Reds are my favorite blades.

The nice thing about DE shaving is that blades are all around pretty cheap. Even if you treat yourself to the most expensive blades money can buy, you'll still only be spending like $.80 for a week's worth of shaves.

Here's my suggestion.

Get a slant head razor.

Use Feather blades. They're the sharpest you can get.

Stop using canned shave cream, get a real shaving soap and a decent brush.

Also get some Mr GLO soap and use it before you shave. Lather it onto your beard and let it soak in for two and a half minutes, then rinse and apply your lather. This makes your beard as soft as it's gonna get.

Shave with the grain, re-lather, shave across the grain, re-lather, shave against the grain.

Read this book and go to this website.

Hope this helps.

Don't be a dumbass. The solution is staring you in the face.

Quit drinking, quit smoking. That's $5200 dollars a year right there.

Then you think you can't find ways to trim thirty dollars out of your weekly budget? Of course you can. Buy one of these. Cook every meal you eat. Get your clothes from the goodwill store.

If you want something, you do what's necessary to go get it.

Hi Wicked_Edge,

I am new to this whole world of shaving, and I'm looking to shy away from my cartridge Gillette.

I wish to transition away because:

1. 16pack of cartridges cost about 50 after taxes of costco that maybe would last 6-8 months.
   
2. it looks cool and its different...
   
3. I find my mustache always has a "shadow" left over, I feel the stubble left over is too thick and I wish to even get a closer shave so I feel razors would be my friend here.
   
   So, doing some research I found three razors:
   
   Maggards m1,m7,m9,m11 - http://www.maggardrazors.com/product/maggard-razors-basic-starter-kit/
   
   &
   
   Merkurs - https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Long-Handled-Traditional-Double-Safety/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref=sr_1_10_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1525201015&sr=1-10&keywords=safety+razor
   
   &
   
   Weishi - https://www.amazon.com/WEISHI-Nostalgic-Handle-Butterfly-Double/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1525201015&sr=1-4&keywords=safety+razor
   
   I'm not looking to spend crazy amounts of money, and the only areas I shave would be my mustache and parts of my facial hair and the facial hair that's on my neck. I style the rest of beard with an electric shaver to so that way I don't look ten years old.. :D
   
   W/ that being said, would the Weishi be the best deal then? I've read that some people found it to be crappy or not cut close enough, and recommended the merkurs and maggards? Would the extra money be worth it? Razors are cheaper, but again, dont wanna spend like 100s on a handle...kinda want something to get the job done and last me a good while.
   
   Is it a requirement to buy shaving soaps, etc or can I just use canned shaving cream?
   
   Thanks for reading!
   
   

You sure about cheapest?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00A7239EK/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?keywords=sodial%20razor&qid=1381088637&ref_=sr_1_2&sr=8-2

£1.86, thats less than $3 at todays exchange rate.

If you want cheap you can get the sodial on amazon for less than $2.50. However I would recommend the budget starter kit from Maggard Razors. Any of those options it gives you are all good options. Then just add a blade sampler pack and you're good to go. I would recommend the build your own sampler any size you choose.

I'm extremely self-conscious of my facial hair; if I had to label myself, it would be as trans / genderqueer.

When I was reading earlier, I only mention it because I have a huge issue with shadowing. I missed when you said
> but in cases where I don't have time or don't want to put any on

and I'm sorry. However, I'll leave this link here just in case you haven't looked deep into color correcting, cause it def helps me.

But, in my experience (YMMV), even the closest shave will still have a slight shadow and if I'm feeling weird about it I take 5-10 minutes to cover it up.

Since you're asking for shaving tips though, here's my advice:
Start with a DE. I'd personally recommend the Edwin Jagger (it's what I have, it won't break the bank. The blades are insanely cheap. I generally go with Feathers.

If you want to make buying easy on yourself, there's a kit here I've had on my pinterest wishlist forever that looks pretty nice.


As for the act of shaving itself, you can check out this video tutorial that covers the Edwin razor that's pretty good.

You can also check out this quick shaving routine. A lot of the DE shaving comes in how many passes you do, and which direction you're shaving (with / against the grain etc.) I would highly recommend checking out the FAQ section and scrolling down to "how do I shave".

You don't want to go against the grain though every time you shave, as it'll most likely start to irritate your skin. Going against the grain as the last pass of shaving always gets the closest / least noticeable shave for me. But there is still a shadow, unfortunately. This is why I recommend color correcting under your foundation, as you shouldn't have to be putting on "half a bottle" (I know it's an exaggeration) in the first place.

https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Heavy-Double-Razor-Included/dp/B000QYEK88/ref=sr_1_sc_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482523396&sr=8-3-spell&keywords=merkor

https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Blades-Count/dp/B00AGG3MNU/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482523412&sr=8-5&keywords=feather

Total noob here! Seeking advice.

I just ran out of Schick razors and I'm about to buy something else. Finally. I was going to buy this and a pack of 100. Never mind, getting this thanks to /u/praise_the_fireborn. Do I need a razor disposal case too?

Also I planned on buying some standard Dorca razors for non-facial shaving, and as a fallback in case I don't enjoy the outcome of double edge.

Well, I found out it's not a Vikings Blade razor but a Shaving Revolution razor.

Looks like if a Weishi TTO and a Baili TTO had a child.

I wonder who makes them...

​

Nice compliment by wifey btw. I heard some women like a boy toy when they get older. ;)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PKHIDRA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yeah man, everything was from amazon. Relatively cheap stuff but i figure it'll hold them unless they get super into them :




Razor: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PKHIDRA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1



Brush and Stand: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G2W5N9M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&th=1




Bags:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JZ6DGWI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1



The blade disposal case and proraso I got from the drug store

Here's the products I use:

• Shaving cream: Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream
  
• Brush: Fento Badger Hair Shaving Brush
  
• Razor: WEISHI Long Handle Version Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor
  
• Blade: I'm going through the Maggard Razor Smaple pack, I believe for the shave I took this photo after, I used Gillette SharpEdge.
  
  I really don't think it's the soap that's the problem.
  

Yes - you're not alone. I have a shorthair but I've heard a lot of tales about the tails (ha) of longhairs.


A groomer can do what's called a "sanitary clip" (there may be other names for it) but basically it shears/shaves the fur around the heiny so that it simply stays cleaner. I'd do this at least once, at a pro groomer instead of a vet, to really see how they do it. (Or look at youtube clips - a quick Google of "sanitary clip cat" shows me quite a few videos.)


Then you can also buy a small shaver/buzzer yourself - I have a Wahl Peanut, https://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-Classic-Clipper-8685/dp/B00011K2BA - and shave down the fur around the heiny/back legs. (I use the shaver to trim a spot on the back of her neck for her flea treatment - she's a shorthair but her fur is SO dense that I literally can't part it to see her skin and I have to shave a square spot!)


To get her used to the shaver so she won't go into Ginsu Mode when she hears it, try running it in her presence a couple of seconds and see if she reacts. Reward her if she's calm. Over time, increase the run time and get it closer to her. When she's used to hearing it and she no longer thinks it's going to kill her, you can do the clip yourself - or have someone put her in a serious headlock for a sec so you can do the clip. After, brush the area with a super fine-toothed comb (such as a flea comb) so you make sure you get ALL the shaved/sheared hairs out of the area.


Shaving this area won't hurt your cat or make her too cold, and she'll have a much cleaner tooshy.

Wahl clippers are the best, so I've heard (though I haven't tried too many different ones). I've got one of these, and it gets the job done: http://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-8685-Classic-Clipper/dp/B00011K2BA

As for what you're doing, the most important thing IMO is to oil the blades regularly. If you don't, they'll get dull and not cut well and pull on your hair as you're buzzing it. Which hurts. Barbers oil clipper blades every time they use them, but I think every 2 or 3 times is sufficient for non-barbers.

Also, if you don't have a hand-held mirror, get one. Face away from the bathroom mirror and look in said hand-held mirror so you can see the back of your head and make sure you didn't miss any spots, and so you can see what you're doing if you trim your neckline.

There is the option of no batteries (like this or this) too.

https://www.amazon.com/Groom-Mate-Platinum-Nose-Trimmer/dp/B000EBFJXS/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1511715895&sr=8-3&keywords=groom%2Bmate%2Bnose%2Bhair%2Btrimmer&th=1

its manual, not electric so should last as long as you do

Groom Mate Haartrimmer für Nasen und Ohren. Keine Batterien, einfach zu reinigen, solides Ding. Habe meinen schon seit mehreren Jahren im Gebrauch, was auch zu erwarten ist da die Konstruktion nicht viel einfacher sein könnte. Neben dem Rasierhobel eines der besten Preis/Leistung Verhältnisse.

Tischlerwerkzeug von der E.C. Emmerich Werkzeugfabrik. Mit einem Hobel von denen zu arbeiten ist ein richtiger Genuß. Das Werkzeug ist hochwertig verarbeitet, zuverlässig und jeden Cent wert.

I have this one, no batteries, easy to travel with, stainless steel, made in the USA
http://www.amazon.com/Groom-Mate-Platinum-Nose-Trimmer/dp/B000EBFJXS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373760358&sr=8-1&keywords=platinum+xl+nose+hair+trimmer

This is all anecdotal but I am a fairly regular flyer, 8-12 check-ins a month. If you're in the US, you can travel domestically without issue (in over 100 flights I haven't been stopped or questioned about it, though I am pre-check so that might make a difference). I've had many flights, probably 50 or so checkins in Canada as well without issue. Canada gave me more grief over nose-hair clippers (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EBFJXS) than the spork - but the nose hair clippers were ultimately fine.

Less data: I traveled to Europe, through europe, took about 6 flights with check-ins and didn't have the slightest problem.

I flew to Central America and on the return trip, they nabbed it. I've noticed higher security over trivial things in developing countries (South-east asia, Central/South America). I've had small, less than an inch scissors taken from me twice now as well even though I travel regularly in the US with those same scissors.

So, do with that info what you will and don't blame me if they take it from you in the US (though I really really really doubt they will).


If you travel internationally, your odds of success may diminish

https://www.amazon.com/MANGROOMER-Yourself-Electric-Back-Shaver/dp/B000HQ0L2E/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1497316900&sr=1-3&keywords=mangroomer

http://www.amazon.com/MANGROOMER-Do-It-Yourself-Electric-Back-Shaver/dp/B000HQ0L2E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1342910209&sr=8-1&keywords=mangroomer

Sounds like you're looking for Arko. Here, this will last you a few years at least.

advice: buy 3 of the tryablade pack. This way you can shave through a blade and revisit it once you've tried some others.

Maggard, Merkur, Edwin Jagger, and Standard all make good affordable razors.

To put together a kit under $75 you'll want to stick with synthetic or boar brushes. A decent silvertip will run you at least $40. Synthetic is probably the best choice as they dry most easily.

Good soaps are wonderful. You can save shit ton of money buying a lifetime supply of arko or you can spend $20-30 to grab a couple soaps from Dr Jon's, haslinger, B&M Latha, Fine, Henri et Victoria, Dapper Dragon, Maggard, Chiseled Face, Mike's Natural, Wholly Kaw, First Canadian, Catie's Bubbles, Reef Point, Mickey Lee, Captain's Choice, TTFFC, Phoenix & Beau, Soap Commander, or Mitchell's

The puck of mitchell's and the 6oz soap commander tubs will both last a really long time, but any of those should last a couple months at minimum. I've never counted but I hear the rough math is that 1 4oz tub is good for ~100 shaves.

12 packs are available for $16 in FREEDOMLAND, so maybe have it shipped to an Amazon locker and cross the border if it's nearby?
https://www.amazon.com/Arko-Shaving-Soap-Stick-White/dp/B000VAWZ2U/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1517778215&sr=8-4&keywords=arko+soap

Cool!

Generally online is the better place to get this stuff. There's a few brick and mortar stores that carry good stuff, but online is just easier.

Some soaps can be a little expensive, yes, but keep in mind they generally last longer than the canned gel.

There's a lot of options if you're price conscious however.

Razorock is an Italian shaving soap that's really easy to whip up so it's ideal as a beginner. They have sales on some of their soaps in the $7 to $9 range.

Also consider Arko. It's definitely not as "fun" as some of the other artisan, uniquely scented soaps, but if price is super important to you, it's definitely the way to go. That link is a 12 pack. I have absolutely no idea how long that would last someone using exclusively that product to shave, but I would guess at least 3-5 years, maybe more.

Arko is a shaving stick, so it's a little different. Again, have him watch a video in how to properly lather that stuff if that's what you end up going with, otherwise he'll probably end up frustrated.

There's tons of places to get blades. Here's West Coast Shaving's inventory of them. This is where you'll save money in the long run.

Tell him to consider getting a sampler pack. Blades are very different and everyone has a personal preference.

This one do not recommend using it wet, though! I've had mine two years and the battery is starting to drain a little bit faster the older it gets but it still works great. I've also never replaced the blades but it says to every 6 months.

I can shave my legs maybe once a week. Any more than that I get ingrown hairs. None of the prevention tips have ever worked for me. I don’t even attempt to shave my bikini line. Ingrowns there are a nightmare.

Magic cream shave (a depilatory cream for black men) is what I had been using for my bikini line. Sometimes my legs also. But it is messy and smelly.

More recently I bought Panasonic electric shaver and veet trimmer for my bikini line. Complete game changer! It doesn’t give you as close of a shave but I can shave every day...no ingrowns.

I really felt your pain while reading this post. I myself suffered for horrible ingrowns, infected puss bumps, and ugly dark scars. It really affected my self esteem. My first suggestion is to try electric shaving if you already don't . Here is the shaver i tried out https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0018A32XS/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It improved my problems noticeably but not completely about 60-70% improvement. I also found that exfoliation even though it's recommended actually made everything darker and more irritated. So try not exfoliating . Despite all of these improvements I still felt ugly and gross and was fed up.


... So I got laser and my life literally changed in a day. I've never been so proud of a decision in my life . With the very first session 40% of my hair was gone! And it barely felt like anything ! No ingrowns and the scars that I thought I would have to bleach or get some type of fancy treatment to get rid of started fading instantly. It's the constant irritation of shaving that doesn't allow scars to fade. However, definitely try my first suggestion with the electric razor first. It's a lot cheaper and might work out for you.

This is the one I use!

I had to change my shaving routine for running because my bikini line became so embarrassing with the rashes and ingrown hairs! I switched to an electric razor: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0018A32XS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

bought a post-shave exfoliant: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002NVBR24/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and a hair growth body cream to make up for the fact that electric razors don't get as close of a shave as regular blades: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MU1C3A9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

at first the extra steps were annoying but now I feel like I'm pampering myself a bit. I still try to avoid shaving the night before a long run but it doesn't result in a rash if I do

AlexandrasGirlyTalk has some great tips on shaving, she even did a bikini line maintenance routine video. I tend to wax my bikini line during the summer, but for more intimate areas like closely around my vulva, I like to use electric shavers. I use this one from Panasonic. It's ok, not super great but it is really quick (and cheap) and easy to use.

Me too! I wound up ordering this one from Amazon tonight. The reviews were pretty good and it has a charger and a trimmer. I figure that if it turns out to be junk, at least it was $20 and not $50 or somesuch.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0018A32XS/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I went on amazon bought a brush for 10.00, a relatively cheap DE razor for about 27.00 a stand for 10 and a soap for 10.00, I would recommend trying a soap sampler to find one you like. You can find starter packs as well, and I would do that. I was trying to be somewhat frugal but ended up needing more than I thought. Most razors come with a free pack of blades, usually at least 5, and that should last you approximately 15 shaves, so at least two weeks. After that I recommend going with some kind of blade sampler since a lot of packs come with a hundred blades and if you buy the wrong blade you might be out the 10 or 15 that it cost.

It takes longer than a cartridge razor to shave, and requires more skill and attention, but the whole process is much more enjoyable with better results.
I recommend going the cheap route until you're sure you like it, and as you wear out the items you buy (bristles comes out of my brush almost every shave, a couple at a time) then buy the next level up. It can be extremely expensive, but like anything there's also regular people versions of all the expensive stuff too.

For your reference:
Razor
Soap
Brush
Stand
Blades

I don't think you'll get any good straight razor from Amazon, especially at that price point. You can get a straight handle with disposable blades (look for Shavette) from there. Amazon has one or two good brands but they're most likely not properly sharpened by Amazon and I can almost assure that you'd have to send it out to someone before using it.

You can check out this article on Straight Razor Place about getting items on a budget. I usually suggest these full straight razor kits, which start at $160 and include a proper straight razor (sharpened), strop, brush, brush stand, soap, mug and styptic.

Things you can get on Amazon are this brush for $11, and Proraso soap for $9. This $32 strop would work well. If you get a strop from Amazon make sure it's Fromm as some of the other brands I saw on the first few pages were made in Pakistan and probably lousy.

Lastly you can check out the SRP classifieds for deals. Most of our vendors are active members who also sell through their websites: Dylan, Ben, Glen, and Larry should all have affordable shave-ready razors listed.

Proraso makes one for sensitive skin that gets great reviews.

Using a sharp blade and shaving with the grain is what is going to make all the difference.

I have a double edge safety razor that I bought from amazon. The blades for it are SUPER cheap and way more sharp than cartridge razors. There is a higher initial higher cost with using a DE razor because you have to buy some more expensive hardware, but it's cheaper in the long run.

Use good soap
http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shave-Soap-Sensitive-150ml/dp/B001JHEY14/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382915459&sr=8-1&keywords=proraso+white
You will need to get a brush to make lather with that soap, but it's pretty good for sensitive skin. The aerosol stuff doesn't come close.

also check out /r/wicked_edge/ for everything there is to know about shaving.

Awesome man, I'm glad you had a good shave. I've got hard water too, and I've found that Proraso lathers very well despite being a soap. As for a new razor, I think an adjustable may be a good second razor, I personally adore my Gillette Slim, but look around.

J'aimerais de mettre à un razoir de sureté prochainement, ça vaut quoi ?

https://www.amazon.fr/Rasoir-S%C3%A9curit%C3%A9-Merkur-23C-Manche/dp/B00374F5CY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1522790311&sr=8-3&keywords=rasoir+de+suret%C3%A9

Check out the Merkur 24C then. It's decent quality, and not overly aggressive. Perfect for learning.

$2.27 Razor,
$6.00 Shaving Soap,
$7.49 Brush from Walgreens
$15.76 plus shipping for the Amazon stuff. Add some blades and you're good to go.

Take a look at the sidebar - there are some good sets for less than $50 and online shops are the way to go unless you get lucky and find a good antique razor.
This set was just released my Maggard Razor and is a good start for $38. You don't need to buy a bowl - any will do, even a mug. Also, stands are not necessary .

You can also buy the Sodial razor (and look at the pack with razor, soap and styptic pencil below for only $11.64)
As a starter brush you could choose a standard Omega with boar bristles which is a great brush. I have also seen the Ecotools Bamboo brush recommended a lot - you can find that in places such as Wal-Mart I believe for less than $10. (I'm not American, I'm not sure).

Also, it's strongly recommended that you get yourself a blade sampler, the importance of which you can read more about in an article by Leisureguy.

Edit: if you are looking for an aftershave, you can try out Nivea Sensitive aftershave balm -very cheap and available everywhere.

Hi OP! I'm a lady who uses a DE safety razor to shave so I can give you some input. The reason I actually started was because my legs are super sensitive and can't stand the regular razors commonly found in grocery stores. Someone suggested trying out a DE safety razor and I haven't looked back since.

I ordered a Merkur 23C from Amazon, along with some Astra blades. They both work fantastically for me, although I would recommend beginning with a starter pack of blades so you can see which one is best for you. I also got a badger brush from a local company and use a Crabtree & Evelyn shaving cream. I may look into other creams later on, but this one does the job for now!

So I've been on the fence about wet shaving for a while now... Posted in /r/shaving a bit back...

Finally ran out of Costco disposables and WalMart canned shaving cream at the same time. Decided to place a Wal*Mart Order...

Razor: Merkur 23c Three Piece

Blade: Feather

Soap: Vikings Blade Sandalwood-Cedar

Brush: Cheap Ass Brush from Amazon

No aftershave. No bowl. Forgot that those were necessary parts of the regimen.

Happy to report that I didn't end up in the ER or killing myself. I didn't even cut myself. (Though I was VERY nervous and shaved MUCH more carefully than when I use disposables)

I feel that the shave was MUCH closer.

I smell better.

I feel less razor burn.

I'm happy with the process as a noob and I feel like as I get more comfortable with the process, I'll enjoy it.

Here you go

Edwin Jagger De89lbl Double Edge Safety Razor Chrome Plated Lined Detail

Dovo Stainless Steel blade BLACK Handle Shavette Straight Razor Uses Replaceable DE Blades and a Brut Styptic Pencil you're going to need it

Edwin Jagger Razor Stand for Double Edged Razor or Colonel Conk Evernice Model 775 Chrome Safety Razor Stand

Double Edge Safety Razor Blade Variety Pack - 100 Blades! and/or 115 BEST Blade Sampler FEATHER SHARK ASTRA BLUEBIRD LORD GILLETTE

Edwin Jagger 1ej946sds Traditional English Best Badger Hair Shaving Brush Faux Ebony With Black Drip Stand

Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce

Proraso Shaving Cream 5.2 oz (147 g)

Bloc Osma Natural Alum Block

Ogallala Bay Rum Bonanza Sampler!

And just use a kitchen bowl to make the lather.

Edit : Made an Amazon List

What was the blade brand? I am working my way through this sample pack and would have to say that each pack shaves differently.

I really don't know why people are shitting on Amazon. I like supporting artisans and small companies as much as anyone else, but if OP wants to go with Amazon because it's cheaper (and it is cheaper), then let them do it.

To answer your question, the Edwin Jagger DE89bl is a great razor, Proraso Green is a great soap, and the Omega 48 is a good brush. You can also pick up all sorts of blades in bulk.

If you get the Astra blades, the kit is about $60 on Amazon and about $75 on a small site that is popular in this sub.

Let me just reiterate. I like artisans and small vendors, especially for the wider variety of scents and razors. There are better options for less at small vendors, but those are on items that only those vendors sell. for mass-produced products Amazon is often the cheaper option

Oh, links...
Silvertone double edge razor http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0050HO9MI

Arko shave stick, easy to lather, and a pretty decent smell www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002A5OLHQ

There are all different kinds of brushes, here are a few
www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003BWNR9A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1377634966&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165

www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000G647Y8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1377635019&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165

www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001PDDEVS/ref=mp_s_a_1_13?qid=1377635056&sr=8-13&pi=AC_SX110_SY165

Also, for $26 is a good brush, from Larry at whipped dog.
www.whippeddog.com/products/view/silvertip-badger

Blades, well look on amazon for a sampler pack , or try maggard;
www.maggardrazors.com/index.php/product-category/razor-blades/
Make your own, or choose one of theirs!

[TOBS Jermyn and Sandalwood creams work wonders for me, having a sensitive face.](http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sbMy sakin_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=TOBS+Jermyn+St+Sensitive+Skin+) You mention psoriasis. My mom actually suffers from it on her legs and knees. She finds that DE wet shaving reduces not only the irritation, but nics, cuts, and her razor burn.

I suggest getting either of those creams, some pre shave oil you can apply to try and reduce irritation, a decent DE razor: this is what I have settled on myself, and a soft shaving brush.

I'd suggest Astras as a blade but, blade can vary person to person and I'd suggest getting a sampler of them to decide upon what irritates your face less.

I am still relatively new here but have seen you guys give so much I can't help to think you are Santa Claus or something! I admire you!

Rasta, I heard you have an unhealthy obsession with Bane.. Let's just say I kind of got escorted away from my Uni for wearing my bane suit for an outdoor showing of TDKR!! :)

Gee I am making this so long! I think I could use a safety razor after some time I have spent on wicked_edge! this one particularly!

Also as a photographer I could use a reflector so badly! I just started doing fashion portraits instead of my regular street photography/landscapes and this is a must! I like this one for the price! (<$20)

And the magic words:
C'mon...gimme.

http://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Ebony-Double-Safety/dp/B003LW4LJK

Something wrong when the knock off is more expensive.

I want to sell these items as I have another EJ razor with the same head. It'd be a nice kit for a newbie to start with or anyone who wants these items for their den. It includes the Van Der Hagen luxury kit and a Edwin Jagger DE86bl ebony, both of these items were used for about 6-8 weeks. The VDH soap was only used maybe 3 times.

Besides the VDH kit and razor (with boxes) it also includes;

• a palmolive stick, I used it once, but the scent wasn't for me.
  
• an Edwin Jagger Shave Cream and After Shave Lotion sample
  
• pack of 5 Astra Platinum blades.
  
• In the picture is an Osma alum block, I used for about a month, not sure if this can be cleaned, but I'll include it also if you want.
  
  
  I'm thinking $55 shipped CONUS only please. PM me if you have questions or are interested.

So would you suggest I get the lined handle version? That seems like the most practical, but for purely aesthetic reasons I was thinking of the imitation ebony handle, as that would match the brush/stand and soap bowl that I'm getting. I wasn't actually planning on getting a bowl, because I thought I'd stick with the Palmolive.stick, but then I saw that Mitchell's wool fat soap comes with an ebonised oak bowl for £9 and I couldn't resist.

Aaaand it's 8am and I've been up all night looking at shaving stuff.

• Art of Shaving Sandalwood kit
  
• 16 Blade Sampler from Amazon
  
• Edwin Jagger 86bl
  
• Cutting Edge Razors - Shave Stand
  
  

This is what I use and it's served me well.



Also Amazon Smile link

There can be differences, but from my experience they're nothing too drastic. Some are a little more 'aggressive', but you'll became an expert with any razor after enough time with it.

The one I use costs <$20 USD, is very forgiving to beginners, and is still going strong a decade later.

Priced at $12.48 + free shipping - it's either a really weird list or kinda cool:

Panasonic Ear/Nose/Facial Hair Trimmer

Meow Mix catfood


Ten cents less but still an OK buy at $12.34 + free shipping:

Black & Decker 3-Cup Rice Cooker


Two cents off at $12.46:

Mega Pack of 50 Slap Bracelets

At $12.43:

Rise of The Guardians DVD

Yes, I'm clutching at straws now so will sign off.

I think you're looking for an "alum block". https://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28

Maybe it's the alum block crystal deodorant - quick search for that may be the ticket: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Crystal-Alum-Block-Deodorant/dp/B00IJ3M9HW

I use an alum block. After I shave, I rinse the block in cold water, rub it all over my face, then rinse the block. My understanding is it acts to constrict your capillaries, which reduces bleeding, and swelling. It stings a bit. Worth a shot though? Here's a popular one at Amazon.

this one. 10/10 would recommend.

Hello! I was in your place about 3 months ago, except I have always used an electric razor since I started shaving. If you are worried about skin irritation I would recommend you do not buy an electric razor.

I was trying to nail down what could have been causing irritation in my routine when I googled something like "electric shaver/razor comparison" and came across this image. After seeing that I've gone old school and am shaving with a safety razor. I get 0 irritation after shaving now and my neck is completely clear except for a bit of PIH left behind from my pre-saftey razor days. Plus I picked up a new skill and actually look forward to shaving now, Idk I guess I find the process relaxing now.

>four blade

You don't need 4! Just 1 sharp one to cut the hair, anything after that is just extra scraping and all that dragging around with all the extra blades is just causing irritation.

here is exactly what I used to shave this morning; about 65$ upfront but after that initial cost buying new blades and soap is something that will happen once every other blue moon as compared to re-upping on cartridges at ~30$ a pack.

• Shaving soap + brush + bowl
  
• Long handle Razor
  
• *Blades
  
• **Alum block
  
  *I only have to shave about once every 5 days or so, so honestly I just use a brand new blade everytime I shave. I'm sure I could probably get 2 or 3 shaves a blade but, at ~14c a blade I'm not too worried about being wasteful- I just want them to be sharp as hell and clean
  
  **Wet face and rub this on after you shave to disinfect and close up any nics/cuts
  
  ...and if you want to go deeper down the rabbit hole /r/wicked_edge can help you out with that. Videos/links on foaming lather, applying lather, shave angles etc. I just winged it though once I finally had everything- I bleed a little bit the first time but the alum block stops it straight away. I rarely cut myself now

still stings like anti-septic spray on open cuts, but does stop most cuts in about 10 seconds. With the safety razor + this i never have a red and blochy neck from irritation.

Been using it for about 2 years now, maybe lost 2mm off the bar? will definitely last. Also after rubbing your neck just dry it, then chuck it in your wash bag, no case needed. Came across it recommended on a forum post relating to shaving related acne or something a few years back?

(this is the one i've been using, you get two, gave one to a friend, if your not uk just change the .uk to your amazon address. It should show up: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004NEHR28/)

Finally if anyone needs a razor recommendation this is the razor i use; https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B001NIYT1Y.

(For beard care I brought a Wahl compact trimmer, depend on your beard needs thought)

This is the blade sampler I got and it works for me. click

Unless you want the scent of the Eton College shave cream, I would suggest getting the Avocado or Almond shave cream instead. Both were fantastic when I tried them and I think the avocado/almond oil gives the cream a bit more slip.

The majority opinion is that the Edwin Jagger DE89 razor is a better beginning razor however it is backordered on Amazon for 2-3 months so obviously if you want to get started now go with the Merkur. There is nothing wrong with the Merkur, I started with one, it is just the EJ is a more modern and refined design.

Some few people find that they have bad reactions to the MR GLO soap, probably to the lime oil. An alternate and the pre-shave soap I use is the Proraso glycerin soap (which is nothing like the menthol/eucalyptus shaving cream/balm from Proraso).

Also, look into a blade sampler rather than a 100-pack for a single brand.

Forgive me if you already know this, but...

Most people would actually recommend a blade sampler pack for a beginner. One of the resident guru's, Leisureguy, wrote a short explanation that can be found here on why sampler packs are best to start with.

In short, the problem with buying just one blade is that blade might not really be the best one for you. A well varied sampler pack like this one, or this one would be a great start. You can go through multiple blades to see which one works best for you.

Get yourself one of these (or something similar) and just trim it down. Less irritation this way and no annoying ingrown hairs to deal with while still removing enough hair to show your tattoos.

I've been using the Gillette Fusion ProGlide Styler for a couple years and it really does the trick. It's on the cheaper side and held up no problem. Granted, I'm not shaving as regularly as I'd like to.

Totally normal!

Dunno what you're looking into but I personally use a trimmer to maintain (this one, if you're interested, bought it based on many very specific reviews about it being great for the nether regions lol: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0062IWQVU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_VX27CbM198TPB) and find that works well enough for me. If you do buy a trimmer DON'T but a ladies one. Every one I've tried was infuriatingly bad, haha.

If I had the funds I'd absolutely do laser hair removal though. I got waxed for a while and loved it but budgets change so that's not really an option for me anymore, sadly...

Bottom line is, you've got options. Anything except trimming/laser means more exfoliation upkeep so you won't get ingrown hairs but are probably still fine options as well!

I use a men's electric beard trimmer instead of shaving now. It gets close enough that it looks like I shaved a day or two before, but no razor burns or cuts, plus it only takes like five minutes. I use this one: http://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Fusion-Proglide-Groomer-Trimmer/dp/B0062IWQVU

Непраны, нельзя больше скрывать этот всемирный проктор-н-гэмбловский заговор! В следующий раз когда понадобиться покупать очередные картриджи для денди для бритья, подумайте еще раз.

Вы спросите, почему собственно безопасная бритва, а не попсовый Жилет Фьюжн...

Ну во-первых это красиво! Помимо этого, безопасная бритва легко справляется с заросшим лицом и не причиняет такой ацкой боли как 5 лезвий фужн. Если вы иногда отпускаете бородищу - вы должны меня понять. Субъективно бреет чище.

А во-вторых - это просто выгоднее в долгосрочной перспективе (вы же собираетесь бриться в ближайшее 30 лет, правда?).

И так, минутка познавательной (и очень приблизительной) экономики.
Для удобства и правильности сравнения, я просто взял цены с amazon.com.

При условии что средне-статистический депер бреет 45 миллиметровую щетину 3-4 раза в неделю в течение следующих 10 лет, ему потребуется потратить:

Gillette Fusion:

1. Станок Gillette Fusion - $10
   
   
2. Сменные касеты (4штк) - $16
   
   
3. Гель для бритья Gillette Fusion - $6
   
   Допустим гель для бритья в год нужно два балона, не больше - это $12.
   
   Сужу по себе - одной кассеты хватает +/- на 3 месяца. Итого нужно 4-6 картриджа в год. (около $16-26)
   
   Итого приблизительно $10 + $16 + $12 = $38 в первый год и $28 последующие 10 лет = 38 + 280 = $318
   
   Безопасная бритва:
   
   
4. Станок Merkur Classic - $32
   
5. Набор лезвий Derby 100 штук - $10
   
6. Помазок для бритья Basic Badger - $12
   
7. Крем для бритья Proraso - $7
   
   Из "расходников" в последующие года вам понадобятся только лезвия и крем. В.С.Е!
   Лезвия надо менять чаще чем раз в 3 месяца разумется, но их то 100 штук!
   
   За последние 2 месяца я едва израсходовал всего 5 лезвий. То есть в год вам потребуется 30штук. И 100 лезвий за 9 долларов вам должно хватить на 3 года! Что говорит о сумме в районе $30-35 за 10 лет.
   
   Крем - я израсходовал всего треть крема для бритья. таким образом вам потребуется около 2 тюбиков в год.
   
   Итого, за первый год 32 + 12 + 7 2 = $61, а за последующие 10 лет - 7 2 10 + 10 3 = 61 + 170 = $231
   
   TL;DR:
   
   Использование безопасной бритвы позволит вам сэкономить в последующие 10 лет около $90.
   
   Надо признаться, сам процесс бритья стал целой церемонией преображения.
   
   Всем бриться, депраны!

Those cremes are not that expensive I use this one and it lasts almost a year. I bought a ton of razor blades cheap but its fun to try out a ton and find the one you like. I recommend this site. We all all different and I used to think just like you and then I tried it this way. Its nice to get up in the morning, make some lather and enjoy a nice shave.

I think Proraso shaving cream is lovely, it's very mentholy and refreshing

http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Eucalyptus-Menthol-Formulation/dp/B00837ZOI0

Hey there - I started off with the same shave set as you did. Have upgraded since then, but it did a great job for a long time. My first upgrade was to some proraso Shave cream (link 1 below) and then some art of shaving cream (link 2). I LOVE and highly recommend the AOS cream, the sandalwood smells amazing. You will get more for your money with the first one, but I personally think the 20 bucks for AOS is worth it.

What kind of razor are you working with?

1. http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Eucalyptus-Menthol-Formulation/dp/B00837ZOI0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1375907425&sr=8-2&keywords=proraso
   
2. http://www.amazon.com/The-Art-Shaving-Cream-Sandalwood/dp/B000I2XL4M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1375907434&sr=8-2&keywords=art+of+shaving
   
   
   
   

Feather popular on amazon. $12. With a personna blade, I get a mild, smooth shave.

https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=feather+popular&qid=1567552905&s=gateway&sprefix=feather+pop&sr=8-2#

OR Merkur 23C if you are willing to give 3 piece razors a chance!

This is exactly the razor you want. I've done the research(multiple hours) and bought this one years ago:

Feather Double Edge Shaving Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003YJ70NY/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_ZMe4yb22JS545

Never looked back and give this as a gift often...

An electric shaver is quick and easy, however it will not give you a close shave.
I used to use Gillette fusion, they worked quite well. I recently switched to a double edge razor and it shaves so easy & so close I will never go back. I'm using this handle paired up with these blades. Works amazing for me with the added bonus of being much more cost effective, that's nice because I shave so much of my body. I would recommend it to anyone. I've seen people be weary of these being more difficult/dangerous but really it is no different from cartridges.

Try wandering over to /r/WickedEdge for a little more info and/or google DE (double edge) shaving.

Body hair, especially facial hair is a huge source of dysphoria and using this is the first time I've gotten a shave close enough I really deem it acceptable.

One big suggestion, whenever I "let things go" for a little bit I find knocking down the bulk of hair with beard trimmers then shaving makes a huge huge difference in how easy things go.

Honestly if you want a good, modern starter razor, even though it may not be a popular opinion with the "experts" these days, is the Feather Popular. https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1481176769&sr=8-1&keywords=popular+safety+razor
I have given about 15 or so of these to friends, and family over the years. It has swayed most, all but 2 so far, to start wet shaving. As others have stated, you should definitely get some nice soap, and a brush to really appreciate the shave quality. A cheap Omega boar brush, and some awesome, but inexpensive Palmolive for Men classic shave stick is what I usually include with my starter kit gifts.

I did some research myself and concluded that a good boar brush was well-regarded and even recommended for lathering with hard shaving soaps, and a high-quality boar brush (e.g. by Omega) would still be about half the price of a decent badger brush, which itself would be better suited to lathering with softer shaving creams.

For a double-edge safety razor handle, you can often find perfectly good, old Gillettes for a song at antiques shops and eBay, but for new models I can recommend the recent Muhle or Edwin Jagger models, which both use the same, gentle but effective head design (if you have a really coarse, dense beard, get the open-comb design).

For a cheaper alternative to dip your toes into safety razors at lower cost and risk, the Feather Popular seems well-regarded as a gentle, quality razor handle for the price, and if you decide to upgrade to a nicer handle later, you can always keep this around as the travel razor you could stand to lose with trivial concern.

After researching blades, I splurged on a 100-ct carton of Astra Superior Platinums and couldn't be more satisfied; smooth and sharp (but not quite as dangerously sharp as the more expensive Feather brand), they seem to last about twice as long as the 10-pack for $1.50 on sale Kroger store-brand blades I'd started with.

FWIW, most of my pre-purchase research was done at the Badger & Blade forum's reviews section, just take care they don't tempt you into making this an expensive hobby!

Ahhhhhh, shit man, safety razors are tits city!!!!

I got a cheap one off of amazon that came with a feather blade, it's great, almost no irritation, no ingrown hairs, and the packs of razors are pretty cheap!! The razor actually looks really nice and came with it's own case too.

Here's the old girl

Thanks for the advice!!

I want an early present! although it might be considered a late present?

nose hair trimmer! birthdays mean you get old. getting older causes weird things to happen. apparently im growing super long nose hairs

Get a battery powered nose hair trimmer I like the one with the round trimmer part vs the flat one. Conair and Wahl makes a good one and you can pick them up for $19 or less in CVS or Duane Reade or Walgreens. I tried one of those mechanical hair trimmers and thought I'd pee on myself every time I used it because it was so painful. [This looks like a good one] (https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-ER-GN30-K-Nose-Hair-Trimmer/dp/B0049LUI9O/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493174453&sr=1-4&keywords=nose+hair+trimmer) and [this is a toture device] (https://www.amazon.com/KEEPO-Portable-Stainless-Fingernail-Cleaning/dp/B01M69TSFH/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493174453&sr=1-7&keywords=nose+hair+trimmer)

Scissors or trimmers. Don't pluck, and don't ignore it. Ear hair is a little more benign, but long nose hair is something everyone will notice and no one will appreciate.

I am unlucky enough to be a very hairy individual. I've been dealing with nose hair since I was 16. I, unfortunately, also have a relatively sensitive nostril cavity, so when I first bought a trimmer it was a nightmare. The trimming sensation was somewhere between ticklish and waterboarding, and flinching only caused hair to get pulled out (see above about not plucking).

I started with mustache scissors--which work very well. The problem with scissors is that you can't get a close cut, so you are back in there weekly. They did help me with my sensitivity, however. After about a year I went back to the trimmer and had far fewer issues. Now I whip that baby out two or three times a month and have clean nostrils in 30 seconds or less.

The Panasonic ER-GN30 was the trimmer of choice when I did my research and I would strongly recommend it. Waterproof for easy cleaning and runs on a single (easy-to-find while travelling) AA battery.

The key to long-lasting trims is to get in the "pockets" of your nostril. There are two: both just inside the opening, one towards the tip of the nose and one towards your teeth. These are easy to miss and will become visible again within days if not trimmed well. Now I can feel when I need a trim as my nose feels "itchy" as hairs have crossed the Maginot line and have started interfering with each other.

No effing way. Hurts like hell. I've got a big nose full of hair and I'm a good foot taller than my wife so she's got a great view right up there. If I don't trim them, she'll try to pluck them while I'm sleeping. Get a decent trimmer I use this one, and get up in there every couple of days.

> Est-ce que vous auriez des conseils sur les lames, marque, matière etc.

J'utilise des Astrạ, achetées sur Amazon.

>A quelle fréquence vous les changer? Pour info j'ai pas besoin de me raser plus de deux fois par semaine et j'ai pas le poil dur.

Je prends plaisir à les changer plus souvent que je ne le devrais. Ça fait partie du rituel et du plaisir.

En période de rasage quotidien ou tous les deux jours : j'attends deux rasages minimum.

Lorsque je laisse passer plus de temps entre deux rasages, je les change à chaque fois.

>Gel ou mousse à raser ?

Savon proraso pour peaux sensibles, à étaler avec un blaireau et pierre d'alun. Après ça, j'applique un baume Proraso.

It could very well be the electric razors, bud. Have you been to r/wicked_edge? I suggest going there and reading the FAQ bar on how to shave with a DE safety razor. I've been doing it for a few months and it's completely transformed my face (although I switched from disposables, not electric). My best friend has been using an electric for years though and complained about irritation. I got him to try the DE safety razor and he really loves it. His face has cleared up and he doesn't get ingrowns anymore.

If you try the safety razor, I recommend these starters:

Razor
Shave kit

Or you could try this system which got positive reviews by a user on wicked edge. Bevel

I recommend shaving after a shower, using a thick lather with a brush, and shaving with the grain only. Study your face before you shave. Notice which directions the hair grows on different parts of your face, and be careful to shave with that growth pattern. Use some alum and an after shave with alcohol in it afterwards to reduce redness and ingrown hair.

You could try using an alum block as your deodorant.

I know you said you want to use amazon for the free shipping, but the Omega Mighty Midget is a fantastic starter brush, and even with shipping it will cost you around ten dollars less than the Parker brush you were looking at.

Also, look into getting an alum bar in place of the styptic. They last a lot longer than styptic pens and will stop small knicks and cuts from bleeding just as well.

ALUM BLOCK It's potassium alum. a naturally occurring mineral compound.

Rub on your wet face after shaving... let sit for about a minute then rinse.

If I have a shave with some irritation, then I'll use an alum block on the shaved areas. Just make sure to wash it off before applying any aftershaves.

If I get a nick, then I'll typically use a styptic pencil. I hold the styptic pencil on the nick for 5-10 seconds. It stops the bleeding every time.

These are the items I use:
Osma Alum
Clubman Styptic

You need to use an alum block. Just rub it on your face after shaving, let it dry, and then wash it off or rub after shave on your face with it. I used to get razor burns and irritation but it stopped after I started using it.

http://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28

Although I was given this advice for facial hair I guess it applies here too

-Shave after taking a shower

-Use shaving cream (although meant for face, skin is skin)

-Shave in direction of hair growth (some people do a pass in direction of hair and against for a closer shave)

-Right after shaving I would try using this; I use it on my face after shaving and it helps calm the irritation. You just wet the stone and rub it against the target area. After 2-3 mins just wash it off. I normally would put aftershave on at this point but I doubt you want to use that in your happy area =P

Other than that just make sure the blade you are using is not extremely used and dull.

After shaving rub some potassium alum wherever you have shaved. Gets rid of irritation for nlme every time. Lasts a really long time too. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004NEHR28/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1376373568&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY190

Here is a starter kit that I highly recommend and am currently enjoying:

• VDH Premium Shave Set
  
  
• Lord Razor
  
  
• Blade Sampler
  
  Cost me a total of $37.53 shipped to me. I also picked up a bottle of witch hazel from my local CVS for a few bucks.

I just ordered my beginning DE set, so I haven't shaved yet. But based on my research:

I got this blade sampler $16 because it has a decent variety of brands, and I read somewhere it's better to have more than one or two blades per brand when you're experimenting. If you're willing to spend a little more, maybe try this $40 sampler with 21 brands, I'd say that's your best bet for finding a brand you like.

Split the difference with this $25 sampler, 12 brands to try.

https://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Kelvin-Double-Safety/dp/B00K6Z24SK

https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Heavy-Double-Razor-Included/dp/B000QYEK88

https://www.amazon.com/West-Coast-Shaving-Synthetic-Brush/dp/B06XX1C84G

https://www.amazon.com/RazoRock-BARBER-Plissoft-Synthetic-Shaving/dp/B01EK5MDC8

https://www.amazon.com/Fine-Stout-Shaving-Brush-White/dp/B017V3DFGO

https://www.amazon.com/Razorock-Plissoft-Synthetic-Shaving-Brush/dp/B01CD6ZCC4

https://www.amazon.com/RazoRock-BRUCE-Plissoft-Synthetic-Shaving/dp/B01EK43SKA

https://www.amazon.com/Semogue-620-Superior-Bristle-Shaving/dp/B004OJM9XE

https://www.amazon.com/Semogue-Excelsior-830-Shaving-Brush/dp/B006EMKX00

https://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-SILVER-Blade-Sampler/dp/B004UIZFQW

Nice stuff, I'd get a sampler with a few more blades per brand like this one.

Do you have a brush already?

I'll include links but by all means shop around...

• Edwin Jagger DE89 - popular three piece starter razor
  
  
• One of the many creams by Taylor of Old Bond St. - inexpensive and quality
  
  
• An alum block like RazoRock - you can also find some of their artisan soaps
  
  
• A synthetic shaving brush - this one looks to have the same fibres (Plisson clone) as some other very good ones. You could also get a boar brush by Omega or Semogue for eg but these will have a break-in period. Do NOT get a badger brush on your budget; it will be shite. The exception might be this mixed loft Omega 11047 "mixed midget" which is a fantastic little brush; works out of the box like a badger but gets better over time like a boar.
  
  
• Go to your local drug store for Nivea Men Sensitive after shave balm - inexpensive, effective, and widely available.
  
  This is a more than decent starter kit and affordable but you'll also need skills. Check out this poster from /u/mmosh and search for tutorial vids on Youtube by Mantic59 and/or "Nick Shaves".
  
  EDIT: Completely left out blades. You want to sample many kinds to find what is right for you. Something like this.
  
  
  
  

You use the same blades for de and shavette. a shavette just uses half of a de blade so before you pull it out of the wrapper you bend it in half and it will snap in half. now you have 2 blades for your shavette. The blades you linked are just derby blades they already snapp in half for you. So any sampler pack of de razor blades is what you need which is why i linked that search.

Here is a specific pack that is inexpensive but you only get one of each blade (2 blades for a shavette tho). Here is another pack that is more expensive but comes with whole packages of some very popular blades.

The almond is my favorite. hope you enjoy it.

the shavette does take a while to get the hang of so be prepared that it may take a month or so to really get comfortable with it.

I bought this sampler pack a few months ago. All of the blades were of good quality except for the Gillette Blue's. They had wax or glue on the edge of the blade (most blades have a little dab in the middle to keep the wrapper closed). I threw them out and tried all the others.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UIZFQW/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1#

I ended up liking the Astras and Feathers the best. I have a pretty tough beard and they were the sharpest.

The best advice I got was to use all (or at least a few) of one brand consecutively. This will allow you to get used to them and judge the consistency. If you are patient, try using a whole pack before switching. If you get 2 or 3 blades deep and are not happy, throw or give away the rest and move on.

I use the Gillette fusion styler. https://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Fusion-Proglide-Groomer-Trimmer/dp/B0062IWQVU
Very travel friendly and takes one AA battery which you can find anywhere in the world. Pretty damn powerful too. I actually use it at home when I'm not even traveling.

I've been using the Gillette Fusion Proglide Styler for my goatee and pubic region the past 2 years (trim both in the shower).

It works like a magic. On my balls it never hurts. I don't even bother with the attachments. I've tried other trimmers and they'll sometimes nick my scrotum.

This?

http://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Fusion-Proglide-Groomer-Trimmer/dp/B0062IWQVU

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0062IWQVU

Gillette Fusion Proglide 3-in-1. It's about $14 right now on Amazon after using the coupon.

I think it works great. I've had mine for almost two years and am completely happy with it, especially for the low price.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0062IWQVU/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1453007098&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=Gillette+styler&dpPl=1&dpID=41vcvnfle7L&ref=plSrch

Same idea. 4x cheaper. This is what I use and it works great!

A Fusion ATG everyday on a coarse beard is going to murder your face. That used to be how I shaved for a long time, and my skin hated me.

My suggestions in the immediate term is to step up your prep and shave products. That alone will make a very big, immediate difference without breaking the bank or requiring you to teach yourself how to shave with a safety razor (i.e. a double-edge razor).

My advice is to buy the following:

• Proraso shaving cream
  
  
• Proraso pre-shave cream
  
  
• Omega boar-bristle brush
  
  All-in, you're looking at about $40 in products. IMO, Nivea makes a perfectly good aftershave balm, so no need to mess with that. If you want to try a splash, you could try this, but it's not necessary.
  
  For the prep and shave: after your shower, soak the brush in hot water for a couple of minutes. In that time, wet your face with hot water, then rub in about a dime to a quarter-sized amount of the pre-shave (however much it takes to get a thin layer of coverage without any gooping). Rinse it off with hot water. Your face should feel slicker after the pre-shave.
  
  Remove the brush, squeeze the bristles to get the excess water out, then give it a 1/2- or 3/4-inch line of shaving cream. Go to town on your cheek with broad, swirling motions, lathering right onto your face (you can use a mug or whatnot, but your face works just as well and saves time).
  
  If the cream feels too thick, just add a bit of water and continue lathering. It'll take some experimentation to get the amount of water right (varies based on water hardness). Too little water and it will not lubricate very well. Too much and it becomes a runny mess that doesn't lubricate at all. Add water in little bits. You'll figure it out by feel pretty quickly.
  
  Shave WTG, hot rinse, lather, XTG, hot rinse, lather, ATG. Use as little pressure as possible and try to let the blades do the work on each pass. It should feel like the blades are just barely touching your face. Rinse cold after you're done.
  
  That should help deal with the irritation and improve your shaves in the short term. When you're ready, feel free to move up to safety razors. Probably the best way to start is to get ahold of a basic Merkur 34C razor and this thing. Switch brands every two weeks and slowly work through until you find one you're really happy with.
  
  Good luck!

Me too. I've been shaving without using an aftershave(!) with this, and have not had any skin irritation whatsoever.

(I used to swear by Proraso, but this thing is unbeatable if you have sensitive skin.

A good double-edge safety razor, blade sampler pack, shaving brush, and shaving soap can free the both of you from expensive cartridge razors and canned goo. It could take you a little bit to learn how to shave the "old fashioned" way, but as someone who recently took the plunge, it's worth it. Gives a much better shave for a fraction of the cost. (Replacement blades are usually $0.07 - $0.30 each)

If you have hard water, you may want to go with a shaving cream instead, or you could get a gallon of distilled water for $1 that will last you through about a month's worth of shaves.

Shameless plug for /r/wicked_edge. There are a lot of resources there to help you transition.

[edit] Here's a cheaper alternate razor - this is what I have. You can get them even cheaper if you want to wait a few weeks.

As others have said, clean the razor, get a pack of blades, and try it. Make sure the blade "aligns" with the head. This means the two halves of the blade holder are parallel to each other and to the edges of the blade.

If the blade looks like it is "twisted" in the head when looking top-down, you should consider getting a different razor. I have been wet-shaving for a few years, own a few dozen razors, and only one of them holds blades like this. It is incredibly difficult for me to shave with it, I get cut by it a lot.

You will also want to get a brush, bowl, and either soap or cream.

Most of us have spent a few hundred dollars on this since starting wet-shaving. My personal problem is buying too many vintage Gillette razors on eBay. For some reason I can't stop myself.

Hair that grows back is always going to be prickly because it's so short. Only way to avoid that would be laser treatment.

Best way (imho) to avoid razor burn is to use good products.

I shave with a safety razor and use a nice shaving cream. You'll need a shaving brush and a small shaving bowl as well. I change the blades frequently (available online or at drug stores) and pretty much every time before I do my legs.

I will never go back to disposable razors and canned shaving cream. I had to use both on vacation recently and it gave me the shittiest shave and worst razor burn.

Now shaving for me is less of a chore and more like a mini spa trip. :]

Full Disclosure: using a safety razor takes a little practice and I promise you will nick yourself a few times before you get it right. Be patient, it's totally worth it.

edit: I also find this helps with razor burn, bumps, and ingrown hairs: I exfoliate, shave, exfoliate (again), towel dry, use moisturizer.

This will leave your skin soft and smooth and also helps prevent bumps! :)

Good luck!

Looking good, brother! When I finally fully shaved my head, it was a truly liberating experience.

Don't use a Bic, pick one of these up as well as some Proraso shaving cream. If you want, you can also pick up an exfoliating scrub as a pre-shave.

I shave my head in the shower and go by feel; I don't need a mirror until after when I touch up my sideburns to make it even. Using warm/hot water, I get my head wet and scrub with my hands, then use the exfoliator and scrub the oils/dead skin off. Rinse. (The wicked_edge subreddit users may wanna look away here) Use about a nickel-size dollop of Proraso on my left hand and lather it up on my head real well. I keep the lather on my left hand and with my right hand, start shaving with the grain. After that first pass, I add a little more water to my lathered hand and lather my head again for the second pass WITH the grain. This is where I go by feel; I use my left hand to feel and my right hand to shave until smooth all around.

Once I feel that I've gotten everything, I rinse off and use a beard shampoo to help get all those shaved bits outta my beard; they tend to cling onto the beard oils otherwise and I just use a bit of extra beard balm to keep it hydrated.

So yea, you may or may not need a 3rd pass since it'd be your first time shaving like this but I've been shaving this way for the past 4-5 years and I rarely need to anymore.

http://www.amazon.com/SODIAL-Silver-Double-Shaver-Nonslip/dp/B00A7239EK/ref=pd_sbs_hpc_2 Even cheaper here.

Option 1:
sodial razor $2.85

Van Der Hagen Soap/Brush/Bowl $12ish unless purchased as add on item

Blade Sampler Pack $12.95

OPTION 2:

Maggard Starter Kit $35ish and much better quality

I can tell you what I ordered online: I basically ended up following The official under $50 post.

Sodial. But mind you, I am still waiting for it to get here (its been only 5 days) from China. Apparently its not too short of a wait.

This blade sampler pack. This is from England so, again there is a significant wait.

The Ecotools Kabushi brush. I got mine from a walgreens for $8.

Also someday I want to get the 22mm octogon resin handle silvertip from Whipped Dog. $26

I got proraso from a local buisness as my shave cream but i'll let you figure out what you want to get him. Perhaps the sampler pack from Maggard Razors.

Hope this was helpful. Perhaps you already knew most of this but I figured if I'm just saying what everyone else has already said, there is always a downvote button.

Just keep in mind the shipping time if you buy the Sodial from Hong Kong. If you are anything like me, you wouldn't wait possibly a month or more before you get your first razor.

They say shipping to Continental US Street as an ETA of 17-28 business days.

(Had a quick edit to make my written English less rubbish.)

You can get away with it. I've not used it but you might see this thread. Feel free to ask the wicked edge guys anything and browse there.
http://www.reddit.com/r/wicked_edge/comments/1bua9c/barbasol_shaving_cream/

If you want to super cheap you can get a sodial:
http://www.amazon.com/SODIAL--Silver-Double-Shaver-Nonslip/dp/B00A7239EK

You can get into wet shaving so cheaply! There's a double-edge razor that gets positive reviews at wicked_edge that's less than $3 from Amazon. It comes with one blade, but you can get a 5-pack of DE blades at Family Dollar for $1. Walmart sells a brushless shave cream called Cremo that's a very good value for under $4. You'd spend as much on one Fusion razor.

Also, you can get double edge blades even cheaper. $7.50 for 100 blades. (A minimum of 200 shaves.)

Here is the set up I decided on.

• Sodial Razor = $2.25
  
  
• Van Der Hagen Premium Shave Set = $10.99
  
  
• My Nik Is Sealed = $2.99
  
  
• Blade sampler: Build your own 5 brand sampler = $5.19
  
  Astra Superior Platinum
  Derby Extra
  Shark Super Stainless
  Lord Platinum
  Dorco ST300
  
  
  
• Old Spice Aftershave = $ 6.99
  
  
• RazoRock Alum Stick = $5.99
  
  
• Maggard Lime Preshave oil (sample) = $Free
  
  
• Old mug with quote on the side from Goodwill = $1
  
  S.H. charges = $2.95 from Maggard Razor, Free shipping from Walgreen with purchase over $25
  
  Total = $38.35
  
  

If you haven't ordered yet, I'd either encourage you to go with an Edwin Jagger DE for a little over $30, or if you really want something cheap, just save your $ and go for the Sodial razor for $2.25 shipped.

The Edwin Jagger is pretty generally regarded as a benchmark DE razor, especially for beginners, and the Sodial has a lot of fans also, despite costing only $2 and change.

Watch this

buy this

It comes with a test razor, so to try the thing out that's literally all you need. It's noticeably better, and I only cut myself the first time (slightly).

I'd say go for it.

Shave after warm shower. Use pre-shave oil and quality shave soap.
Use an adjustable razor set to lowest number or an exceptional mild razor like the PAA DOC original, but with a very sharp blade such as Feather.

Once lathered, use only cold water to complete shave. Shave by removing the lather (really light touch), don't try to remove facial hair. Take a look at the FAQ.

After shave ritual: cold water rinse, witch-hazel, balm, then aftershave

Best shave I've ever had in my life and there's nothing anyone could do to ever make me change back. All those grandpa's and great-grandpa's were doing it correctly; everyone else after them has been duped by advertising.

In case anyone is curious here's what I'm using ...

• late 60's Gillette Tech (ball end)
  
  
• feather new hi-stainless blades (25 cents a blade)
  
  
• HeadSlick shave cream (best product ever, not just for bald heads)
  
  

I use the Edwin Jagger DE89Lbl. IMO you don't need a razor specifically designed for women; they will do the job regardless. Women sometimes choose different blades, though. Since men's facial hair is usually thicker, they prefer more aggressive (read: sharper) blades like Feathers. I'm perfectly okay with the less aggressive blades like Derbys. If you go one /r/wicked_edge, they always recommend beginners get a blade "sample pack" to see what brand works for you, and then stick with that brand.

There are cheaper safety razors, but since you only have to buy it once I tried to get a decent one. There are also way cheaper blades, but many reviews claimed the "feather" brand is the best, so I went with that.

Safety razor: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00374F5CY?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_image

Blades:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00AGG3MNU?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_image

If you go bigger, it looks like you can get 100 feather blades for about $36.

The container the blades come in have a disposal slot on the back, so no need to worry about getting a special disposal container.

You may also want to get into shaving brushes and actual shaving cream to lather. It also goes a long way, and makes the razor glide easily to help prevent accidental cuts. I got mine at a local Body Shop.

You should look at getting a safety razor (they can run anywhere from $10 up to crazy amounts), and then get a pack of 100 blades (those are usually $8-$10), that should set you straight for months if not a year.

Cheap, economical, and an amazingly close shave.

I started with a vintage 60s Gillette razor but it eventually broke. Switched to this one about 3 years ago and still going strong. The butterfly style ones are super easy for replacing blades. At the same time I bought a pack of 100 blades for like $10-15, and am still working through that package. So have spent roughly $30 for 3+ years of shaving.

I do this too -- use a trimmer, twice over: once with the regular trimmer attachment to bring everything within 1-2mm of skin, then once with the foil shaver attachment to reduce that to barely-perceptible stubble.

Where I vary is that I swear by double-edge safety razors over a cartridge razor any day. The razor handle is fairly reasonably priced ( or this one's a few bucks less on Amazon ) and replacement blades only run about a buck apiece ( $5.39 for a 5-pack at CVS or $6.99 for a 10-pack on Amazon ). If you really need to pinch pennies, you can probably get two good full-body shaves out of a single razor (remember to use both sides!) or several facial shaves.

As SilverlightPony pointed out, rinse the blade often, use minimal pressure and short strokes, to which I'll add keep your strokes slow; you should practically feel each hair getting sliced down. If it feels like you're running the blade over sandpaper you're going too fast, which means the blade is likely skipping and bouncing over hairs; when doing this it'll probably also come down and nick the skin, not to mention you'll need to make more passes, increasing your risk for more nicks.

Are you trying to use these with a safety razor or what?

What you ordered will fit in a double-edge safety razor. Not a straight razor... or a Gillette razor like you can get at the grocery store.

If you’re trying to delve into wet/DE shaving you’ll need a razor to go along with those blades. There are tons of choices but here are a couple of good places to start:

Weishi Butterfly Razor

Merkur HD

EJ safety razor

It's a popular DE everywhere but this sub. The stand? We don't speak of stands.

I use this one. It’s not super high quality but it’s cheap and with good quality blades does very well for the price.

WEISHI Nostalgic Long Handle Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WcHaBb2AMWMA8


Would you say this is a good one?

In regards to razors, recently went from cartridge ones to the double edge razors and its awesome. Like $16 on a nice metal handle thing on Amazon that twists open and you drop the razor blade into it then twist it shut and shave. Got like 100 blades for $10 and I'm set for eons.

Its nice as its a lot less garbage plastic and stuff, cheaper, and for my baby skin doesn't cut the shit out of me and get clogged like the multiblade cartridges. Downside is the head doesn't swivel and tilt, but it's easy to get used to.

Edit: This handle and these blades in particular. They're alright, and apparently good shaving cream helps a lot. Just wish I had found these to begin with, rather than using DSC for years.

This is the razor. I don't think it's a three-piece, but I don't know what that means.

I ordered a well-reviewed one from Amazon, which seemed relatively cheap. I just want to try it and and see if I like it, so I didn’t particularly want to spend 30+ on my first one if this $16 razor will give me a similar experience.

I ordered this one. Should get here by Wed.

I was planning on using the Harry’s gel I already bought and implementing the tips you have me. Should that be sufficient to get a decent experience I do I really need to buy a cheap brush and some real lather as well? My primary motivation is to just shave lol, so hopefully two more days of growth won’t kill me or make it inordinately difficult. Hell, I shaved when it was a bit longer than this with the Harry’s 5 blade cartridge razor. And while it wasn’t fun, I got through it lol. It was just very time consuming. As long as I took my time and made extremely small strokes it was manageable with minimal pain. But I don’t want to do it again. I’m hoping that this will be a better experience, but also hoping that I’m not sabotaging myself by getting a cheaper blade and using canned lather...

I use this razor handle, which is currently going for about sixteen dollars, and I'm using Feather blades. The handle has a really good weight to it, and rarely slips. It also has a butterfly head, which makes replacing heads a lot easier. :)

http://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-8685-Classic-Clipper/dp/B00011K2BA/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1410212934&sr=1-1&keywords=wahl+peanut

This a few times a week is very quick with much less risk of nicks and ingrown (which I am very susceptible to).
The corded model has plenty of torque to make it an easy job.

I've tried everything. Shaving/laser/tweezers.

I have the norelco you posted. Vacuum works decently well, but I have a hard time fading my neckline with it. The comb has a hard time picking up the hairs so I have to clean up with scissors. I would recommend a corded peanut based on the info you gave.
https://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-Classic-Clipper-8685/dp/B00011K2BA/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1511043590&sr=8-1&keywords=peanut+wahl&dpID=41DArvw7zmL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

I have the Wahl Peanut. It's pretty basic but I like that it runs on a single (rechargable) AA and never really suffers from a decrease in power. Comes with 5 length attachments. It's small, you never need to plug it in, and it gets the job done. And it's pretty cheap. I love mine.

don't know about "for life" but I've had a Wahl Peanut for like a year and it's shown 0 signs of wear. I realize this is BIFL, but this seems like one of those products where it would certainly last long enough to warrant the $30.

The Wahl Peanut is what I bought after a series of battery trimmers failed on me. It's simple, compact, easy to clean, and has kicked the crap out of any other trimmers for me.

Stay away from the battery trimmers, they're garbage.

>but I get my beard cut with my hair

http://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-8685-Classic-Clipper/dp/B00011K2BA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411942737&sr=8-1&keywords=wahl+trimmer+peanut

I don't shave completely, but trim pretty close with one of these dedicated for my Netherlands. It gets close enough and is completely safe using the attachments. I use the shortest one for my balls and gooch, the longest for my lower gut and armpits. I'm sure others can chime in who use a DE down there as many do, but this is good enough for me.

> (side note , I always feel horny when I trim my pubes lol)

Haha.. that came off a bit odd, but I know what you mean, if you meant after shaving, not while. It's because your balls are more sensitive with less hair. It's also just the considerate thing to do for that special someone. Very few people enjoy pubes in their face.

Look for a mini-trimmer like this one (Wahl brand) on Amazon or similar. Use one of the plastic guards. Best plan of attack is either standing with one foot up on the edge of the tub, or seated on the toilet with your knees open so the hair falls into the bowl and you can just flush it.

I use a Wahl Peanut and it's perfect! Would absolutely recommend it. https://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-Classic-Clipper-8685/dp/B00011K2BA

$46 brand new lol

My advice would be to generally stay away from cordless clippers. It seems like a nice thing to have but in my experience once the battery goes you're better off just buying new ones. My last set of cordless clippers lasted about 18 months, and the ones before that lasted 2 years.

I've shaved my head with clippers for about 15 years and have gone through many. I picked up a WAHL Peanut a few months ago and have been extremely happy with them. They're quite small so even with a cord it's easy to get a good cut.

Lastly if you do get good clippers make sure to oil them regularly...it really makes a difference using them and they'll last forever.

Peanut

There are two kinds of people.

1. People who tell you to buy this. 2)People who are wrong.
   
   I've had this for 6 years now. It's what the pro hairdressers use. When I tell a hairstylist I have one of these, they invariably respond with "Oooh! Nice!!".
   
   It's professional level so the motor is wicked powerful. The blades are REALLY sharp so THEY WILL BITE YOUR JUNK if you are not careful. But if you use the guards, you're all good. You're gonna wanna lube heh it up once a year or so but it's badass.
   
   Also, I cannot emphasize this strongly enough --> WHEN YOU USE A RAZOR TO SHAVE YOUR JUNK IT WILL ITCH LIKE A MOTHERFUCKER WHEN IT STARTS TO GROW BACK. I recommend against it.

I personally use this with no attachments.


My strategy is squat over a mirror, and when trimming right side hold the trimmer in your right hand and bring left hand across and to the right side pulling your cheek "open" so that it makes your skin tight where you are trying to shave. Best of luck!

Groom Mate Platinum XL Nose & Ear Hair Trimmer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000EBFJXS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_4WGHAbAP2ET55

I use these and they are awesome.. never dull out

I bought this one a few years ago and love it.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000EBFJXS/ref=cm_sw_r_an_am_ap_am_us?ie=UTF8

solid stainless steel, manual nose-hair trimmers. wayyyyy less tugging than the powered kind, and there is nothing that can ever break. if you manage to destroy it anyway, no-questions-asked lifetime warranty.

For stank feet, clean them with antibacterial soap. Assuming you don't have some fungal problem, I assume most of you get stank feet by the end of the day - sometimes, knock down, deathly sick stank. I researched what the causes are, and its bacteria - sweaty feet promote more growth and smell. Scrub em with a dedicated wash cloth or sponge/loofa lathered up with antibacterial soap. Makes a huge difference -- almost as good as baby powder on the sac.

For the tongue, brush it first, then tongue scrape it. It makes the breath better, and helps reduce the "tan color" that Live2RedditAnother speaks of.

For nose hair, this has worked the best for me. It is manually powered, but does not rip any hairs and cause insane pain like the electric versions. http://www.amazon.com/Groom-Mate-Platinum-Nose-Trimmer/dp/B000EBFJXS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=hpc&qid=1265946296&sr=8-3

Groom Mate

Groom Mate Platinum XL is your friend. Solid stainless steel, lifetime warranty, and works great.

Groom Mate nose/ear hair trimmer

http://www.amazon.com/Groom-Mate-Platinum-Nose-Trimmer/dp/B000EBFJXS/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1293479477&sr=8-5

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EBFJXS works. It's the same without the mobile redirect at the end of the URL.

I use this - it works everywhere and no irritation https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mangroomer-Yourself-Electric-Back-Shaver/dp/B000HQ0L2E

also worth mentioning is this miracle to mankind.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000HQ0L2E/?tag=047-20

where have you been living? under a rock? (i have not tried this product, but some friends have jokingly said they were going to get me one... on more than one occasion. i keep kinda hoping they will.)

congrats on the loss!

Your life just got a whole lot easier:

http://www.amazon.com/MANGROOMER-Yourself-Electric-Back-Shaver/dp/B000HQ0L2E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hpc&qid=1266199302&sr=8-1

Sorry, but I have to disagree. I'm like a gorilla and I've gotten my back waxed quite a few times. First off, it's very painful. No matter where I go, I end up covered in blood by the time it's over. Second, it leaves horrible red bumps all over my back. Third, it's pricey and I don't have an extra $60 to spend each month on this. I bought one of these and it seems to work pretty well. I might get the hair lasered off when I have enough money.

edit: I know I said that I don't have $60 a month and then I said I want to get it lasered. I don't mind spending the money if it is permanent.

its on amazon right now for $10.45 which is less than a dollar per stick, it lasts a stupid long time too I get 5-6 months per stick. I dont know how much shipping is without prime though, since I get a sweet deal from my University my prime is 50% off forever.

Just buy it from here: https://www.amazon.com/Arko-Shaving-Stick-White-Count/dp/B000VAWZ2U If you have Prime, they're $1.04/ea delivered. I'm not sure the shipping would even be that cheap coming from another member.

The ingredient list from the photo on this page is different that the one listed above, maybe that just because it's in a different language?
http://www.amazon.com/Arko-Shaving-Stick-White-Count/dp/B000VAWZ2U/ref=sr_1_3?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1394993209&sr=1-3&keywords=arko

Not that I know of. I bought mine on Amazon. I was so happy with it, that I ended up buying in bulk and they sent me 3 times the amount advertised. So I'm literally set for life.

If you're on a budget, I can definitely attest to arko! you can get 12 sticks for 12 bucks and can just squish 'em into any bowl of your choice! Arko is tallow based, so I definitely wouldn't recommend melting it, as that can break down the tallow, but arko is super soft so it doesn't matter much. Arko is one of my favorite soaps, and it definitely performs way above its price range! With this much, you won't have to worry about running out anytime soon (though don't let that keep you from trying other soaps...)

What razor blades are you using? Different people have different skin and hair types, and find that different blades work for them. If you're cutting up your face like that, maybe try a different brand of blade. I'd suggest getting a sampler pack so that you can try a bunch and figure out which ones work the best for your skin.

For example: http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B007OL72B8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422349875&sr=8-1&keywords=safety+razor+sample+pack

It took me a bit of practice and a bunch of razors to get it right, since some tugged on my skin and others were too sharp (hello nick city). My favorite is Blue Bird, they work perfectly for me. Skin prep is really important too! I use Arko shave sticks and an Ecotools brush. The shave sticks lather nicely and last forever (one stick lasted me about 4 months of shaving my legs).

http://www.amazon.com/Arko-Shaving-Stick-White-Count/dp/B000VAWZ2U/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1422349852&sr=8-2&keywords=arko+shave+stick

http://www.amazon.com/Ecotools-Bamboo-Finishing-Kabuki-Pounds/dp/B004W17O7A/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&qid=1422349923&sr=8-21&keywords=ecotools+brush

The one I use is a Panasonic, but it's like 10 years old and discontinued. When it dies or I can't find replacement blades anymore, I'll probably grab one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-ES2207P-Electric-3-Blade-Cordless/dp/B0018A32XS

I have one of these, and it serves me quite faithfully. Many reviews say that it's lasted them years, I've only had mine for six or so months. I would recommend it, and purchase it again.

I've had really good luck with my Remington, I was going to get the one with the swivel head but this one was much cheaper and got good reviews. I've only had it since christmas but I adore it for my legs and armpits, both of which usually get very irritated with shaving and get ingrowns. No irritation since I switched and only one ingrown!

EVERYONE should have one of these. It would make our bodies super silky smooth (better than normal straight razors can). Maybe bath time would be a little more fun.

You can try an electric razor. This one is marketed to women, but I've used it for bikini-line shaping and it worked well enough. I don't see why it, or a similar one, wouldn't work around the corner. It might require some contortioning, but it's less worrysome than a straight edge razor.

http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-Electric-Cordless-Conveneince-ES2207P/dp/B0018A32XS/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1458080031&sr=1-1&keywords=wet-dry+electric+razor

Panasonic Electric Shaver for Women, Cordless 3 Blade Razor, Pop-Up Trimmer, Close Curves, Wet Dry Operation,  - ES2207P https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0018A32XS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_E6sBDbY2JDM54

I just bought this based on a recommendation from a stripper I watch on YouTube for makeup/dancing tips. It's awesome, it doesn't irritate whatsoever and shaves very close. It's also very quick, as opposed to epilating(plus epilating hurts like hell). I used to get bad razor bumps but not anymore with this!! I just bought a Groupon for laser but I know laser isn't a one and done thing, so meanwhile I'll have to rely on this.

here ya go! trimmer

For leg hair I use an electric razor, but it doesn't do well on faces or sensitive areas (because of the trimmers) so I'm still looking for a solution there.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0018A32XS

I have this one and it does its job!

Shaving your legs can be a huge pain in the ass but I have found it makes a gigantic difference in my ability to not only grip the pole but maintain my stamina during multiple classes. If you happen to sweat heavily (like me), your body hair is not only collecting and creating more moisture but it's preventing anything you apply on your skin from being fully effective. Grip aid, for example, just gets caught on the hair instead of your thighs. If you've been using a razor for shaving, I would ditch it and instead pick up a simple electric wet/dry razor instead. You can even get away with just shaving your inner thighs and back of knees if those are the areas of greatest concern.

I bought this trimmer and it's been working out well. You can probably find a comparable one at a store!

Hey, I dealt with the same thing. Proraso white label is the best for sensitive skin and coarse hair. I won't use anything else.

https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Soap-Bowl-Sensitive/dp/B001JHEY14/ref=sr_1_11_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1518890069&sr=1-11&keywords=proraso

A couple thoughts:

• A Simpsons wee scot brush. This thing is awesome, it's not that expensive, and it will be different from the brush he has. It also makes a nice travel brush. If nothing else, the teeny-tiny brush will be a conversation piece. (It's about the size of a man's pinky finger.)
  
  
• Since he has sensitive skin, Proraso White formula. I'm a big fan of the tubs. I never thought I had sensitive skin until I tried this stuff. It's smooth like butter.
  
  
• Pre-shave oil. The link is to my all-time favorite kind.
  
  
• A travel razor
  
  
• A travel brush. This one is cheaper but also good
  
  
• If you want to build him a travel wetshave kit, the Arko soap in a screw-close tub is my favorite travel soap.

Shaving with a DE razor. A good razor is about twice or three times as much as a cartridge razor, but the long term savings are nuts.

Merkur 180 Razor $33

Omega Shaving Brush $13

Proraso Soap $8.50

Optional Razor Stand $22

Optional Alum $5

100 Pack of Astra Blades $10.50

Total cost of 100 DE shaves including startup costs: $92

Total Cost of next 100 shaves (blades and soap): $19

Gilette Fusion $11

100 Cartridges (8 packs) $362

Shaving Cream $20

Total cost of 100 cartridge shaves including startup costs: $393

Total cost of next 100 shaves (blades and shaving cream): $382

Try this stuff I've been using it for months now and I actually forgot I used to find it painful to shave because of how well this works.

There are a lot of different kinds you can get American Crew has one that I use when I do hot shaves. Aveda has a good all purpose oil you can use for shaving (and as a moisturizer, bath oil). The oil acts as a lubricant and reduces irritation. I have had a lot of sensitive skinned guys try using a shaving oil and Proraso shaving soap with a shaving brush with positive results.

This, especially regarding the stages.

I had the same problem, OP. Make sure you do a proper shave.

Using a preshave cream, a sensitive skin shaving soap (Proraso Ultra Sensitive works wonders for me), with a patient shave and a good aftershave solved almost all my problems.

>...the long handled version of the Merkur 34c (has a different number designation that I can't remember)

​

That's the Merkur 38c. https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Heavy-Barber-Safety-Chrome/dp/B002RBGYXW/

​

It's a 2-piece design, so it's less difficult to load and unload. Long handle is nice.

​

The Merkur 23c is a more typical 3-piece long-handle design at about half the price, but slightly more cumbersome to install the blade into for a novice. https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Long-Handled-Safety-Razor/dp/B00374F5CY/

​

Either will work depending on your budget and your level of dexterity.

Hi. I know this is pretty late, but I’ve been using a safety razor for the last six years. While which razor is best is totally subjective, after owning several more expensive ones, I actually found I prefer the straight forward basic [Merkur Classic](Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00374F5CY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_5BrmDbC72K1DR). Great price and great shave. Oh, and don’t buy into that whole “you have to do this and this and properly do this” ritual shit some people try to feed in videos and even on the subreddits. Just shave as you normally would and you’ll find what works best for you.

I prefer the ones with longer handles! I think this one is the one I have: Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00374F5CY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_jlUJDb1WABXAN. Makes it easier to finagle.

The blades are super cheap so pick out a few brands and try them! I normally use Astra. I also use my regular shaving cream (Eos).

Hope this helps! I think you’ll love it.

I'm a big advocate of double edged razors. They're the cheapest way to shave, and they're classy af.

Get a Merkur for $29, then buy 100 razor blades for $8. It'll last you forever.

You can get a badger brush, shaving cream, etc., but I just shave while my face is still wet from the shower.

Go with a good old fashioned disposable safety razor setup. for the money, its tough to find something better than the Merkur. The razor itself might be more, but at less than $0.10 a blade, you wont mind using a new one with every shave.

Safety razor works best for me too. I've tried it all. Trimmer just makes it short and scratchy, doesn't get you shaved. I use this one with these blades. Keep one hand dry to pull the skin tight, always use a sharp blade.

I have had this one for 6 years and it serves its purpose well each and every time I use it:

https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Long-Handled-Safety-Razor/dp/B00374F5CY

You can probably get away with something cheaper but for the blades since you're starting out, I'd suggest the Derby blades.

https://www.amazon.com/Derby-Extra-Double-Blades-Stainless/dp/B002EBX3V6/ref=sr_1_13?keywords=derby+blades&qid=1573493087&sr=8-13

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ps88RU_BXlA


Check out /r/wicked_edge for more info.

Sure!

Razor (you can go cheaper, I doubt it matters much, but this is the one I have):
https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Long-Handled-Safety-Razor/dp/B00374F5CY/ref=sr_1_9_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1525895260&sr=1-9&keywords=safety%2Brazor&th=1

And these are my favorite blades:
https://www.amazon.com/Astra-Platinum-Double-Safety-Blades/dp/B001QY8QXM/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1525895299&sr=8-3&keywords=astra%2Bsuperior%2Bplatinum&th=1

and then I would also recommend:
Shave soap
https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Soap-Refreshing-Toning/dp/B00837YY18/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1525895347&sr=8-4&keywords=proraso+shaving+cream

And a brush:
https://www.amazon.com/Shaveway-Original-Shaving-Engineered-methods/dp/B00LMTHSF8/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1525895388&sr=1-7&keywords=shaving+brush

This is enough to last you a LONG time (years, if you grow facial hair as slowly as I do)

Ich habe den Merkur 23c der hat einen längeren Griff und eignet sich super für die Ganzkörperrasur

I bought this long-handled one from Merkur. I also picked up a sample pack of assorted blades. Can't remember which one, but there are plenty of options on Amazon.

Glad I saw this thread. It's my time to shine.

I am only 18 years old and use a DEvette every day, and I can't even grow a full beard yet. I cut my neck/chin/jawline areas though and it works very well. Just about a month ago I stopped shaving for a week to see how well my beard grows out and I had plenty of acne after just a week, yet with a DEvette I get the cleanest shave I have ever gotten and I have no irritation as long as I'm careful. I shave at a relatively shallow angle but will shave at a steeper angle on my sideburns.

I also don't use any shaving cream or anything but I do shave in the shower so I use plenty of water to lubricate. To make sure your shave is safe use something to keep the blade tight to the head or use a razor where the blade is naturally tight against the head to limit blade flex. I use This merkur razor without the guard. The blades I use don't tend to flex.

DEvettes are amazing if you can adhere to the learning curve. You WILL irritate yourself a lot, but with practice they can be the greatest shave you ever get, every single time.

With all of this in mind, YMMV. I am convinced DEvettes are amazing for everyone, but you need to find your perfect blade and your perfect pre/post-shave routine too. Not everyone can shave with just water.

I'm in the UK, so got mine from Shave Lounge, but I was thinking about using Connaught for more blades, as their postage seems a little cheaper (also, I kinda like their archaic website). There are lots of US suppliers listed on the /r/wicked_edge wiki.

I got a Parker 91R because I believe that the handle should be knurled. It's not that fancy (although I see there are cheaper), but it's fine. You can get it for $30 in the US, it seems.

Buy a sampler or two of blades and see which ones you like. This seems to be a subjective matter - I've only tried two brands so far, as they're the ones which came with my razor; I liked the Derby Extra, which lots of people seem to dislike, whereas the Persona Platinum didn't suit me.

I kinda think the subscribers to /r/wicked_edge are taking it a bit too seriously, posting photos of their new razors and making it into a "hobby", but I can feel a noticeable difference between the two brands of blades.

The /r/wicked_edge subscribers harp on about shaving gel / foam being shitty - I bought a brush and the kind of shaving soap they recommend, but haven't used it, as Gillette gel still seems fine to me.

Hope this helps.

• Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor
  
  
• Double Edge Safety Razor Blade
  
  You do not have to go all in and do badger brush and special soap. No matter what anyone tells you. I shaved before my wedding with dish soap. I normally use bar soap and shave in the shower.

creamo! easy to use. i like the peppermint version. if he has sensative skin the normal one is pretty gentle.

dollar shave club is nice for what you pay for. to be honest, i have used creamo and a dual edge razor for the longest time no complaints. a DE razor will last him much longer than a disposable and he can do the tour de razor and find out which blades he likes. a box of blades is so much more economical than dollar shave club and if you get him a real nice razor he will treasure it. maybe he will get into brushes soaps etc but to be honest starting him off with something easy like creamo works. i have a maggard!

Would you have recommended something like this?

Cheap Starter kit $29.37:

Silver Tone Double Edge Blade Razor Shaver w Nonslip Metal Handle $6.72

Derby Double Edge Razor Blades 30 Ct $3.70

Escali 100% Pure Badger Shaving Brush $13.95

Col. Conk Lime Glycerine Shave Soap 2.25 oz. $5.00

Blade sample pack (nor merkur or feather though):

Double Edge Safety Razor Blade Variety Pack - 100 Blades!

Better starter kit ($110.85):

Parker 82R Super HeavyWeight Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor & 10 Shark Double Edge Blades $30.88

Edwin Jagger 1ej946sds Traditional English Best Badger Hair Shaving Brush Faux Ebony Medium With Drip Stand, Black, Medium $41.72

Geo F. Trumper Limes Shaving Soap in Wooden Bowl $32

10 Feather Razor Blades NEW Hi-stainless Double Edge $6.25

Nice, I have the same razor. Yours is a lot shinier though. I like it but it tends to shave with the sides of the razor leaving a bit of a hair streak through the middle.

Anyway, as others have said, any double edge blade will fit. I just bought this box which should last me until I die; but if you want variety and to find what works for you buy this box.

A Kindle. The one with 3G and without the bullshit ads.

Or

A nice safety razor, lots of blades, a shaving brush and good shaving cream.

Or

40 pounds (5x8 pound bags) of cereal marshmallows.

I vote for #3.

[you mean this] ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003BWNR9A/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_sg36tb0Z7FTHV)

You could go that route, reviews seem positive. Or you could tweak it a little.

Here's one option:

[Razor] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NL0T1G/ref=oh_details_o00_s01_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Brush] (http://www.amazon.com/Omega-Shaving-Brush-10048-Bristle/dp/B003BWNR9A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1397012788&sr=8-2&keywords=omega+boar+brush)

[Alum] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FA35K02/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

With a few bucks left over for [Supplies] (http://theholyblack.com/)

Look at this album for the story of my brush: http://imgur.com/a/9cnd8

Then give a shout out to /u/drivenlegend . He did my brush, and I highly recommend him not only for his skill, but for his communication. All I knew is that I loved my Omega Pro48 knot, but I hated the handle. He recommended the Rubberset 200-4. He even helped me look for one. I ultimately got a good host from someone on another forum.

Read the comments in the aforementioned album for answers to some of your questions. I would imagine that most of these vintage brushes that actually saw real action are missing the paint in the lettering. Your lettering is probably not black, but just missing the white paint which /u/drivenlegend can put back as long as there's enough of an indentation to hold the paint.

I would love to hear how this turns out for you, so please tag me when you post updates so I can follow along. Good luck!

EDIT: I'd also add that it looks like the brush reads, "200-4" which would make it the same model as mine. If the knot is brittle and needs replacing (my amateur eyes say it's a goner), and if you want to stay with boar, I recommend the Omega PRO48. You can pick it up on amazon for $11. For that price, I'd have no problem buying a new brush just as a donor for the knot. After it's broken-in, it's a very nice knot. Of course, you may be wanting to go the badger route, but I'm partial to the looks of boar with this handle.

Wet Shavers represent!

A good, cheap brand of shaving brush is the Italian made Omega brand.

The Omega Pro 48 (Omega model number 10048) is a wonderful brush, and costs about $12 or something. It is a big, boar bristle brush that is perfect for bringing bar soap to a foamy lather.

Ladies will love this brush, as the large size makes it quick to lather legs etc.

For best results, soak your brush in the sink for a couple minutes before you lather up.

Plugging TOBS Sandalwood for a recommended cream... If you don't have a soap, it's notoriously easy to lather. I use it when I rush my shaves, or if I don't have time. Very good shaving cream IMHO, and it always gives reliable shaves.

Not better than my Stirling, but we're talking Amazon here, and TOBS Sandalwood Cream would be my recommendation for something to get latherin'.

For a brush, although I have not tried boar knots, the 10048 looks pretty good, and I've seen someone else recommend it already. If I was buying on a budget from Amazon, that would be my first pick.

The TOBS cream and Omega brush will set you back about what you would have paid for the VdH kit, which is rubbish from what I've heard, although I have no experience with it.

Face or palm lather the TOBS and save yourself a bowl. The mug in the VdH kit is only to put soap in anyway, and shouldn't be used to lather - only to load your brush. Even if you did try to lather in it, it's not really the 5-6 inches diameter you're gonna wish you had.

Also, if you have leftover cash, spring for some Witch Hazel. Stuff is frickin magical. Apply right before you apply aftershave balm, and let it sit for a minute or so to really tighten up your face.

If you have even more leftover funds, or opt to get WH at your local drugstore, apparently Clearly Natural Glycerin Soap is a good pre-shave. I use MR GLO, but people have told me that any high-glycerin soap makes a nearly equivalent MR GLO substitute. And, for the price of less than one puck of MR GLO, you get 3 bars of Clearly Natural. Hooray for hydration and slickness!

And if you're in for a splurge, get a fancy stand. Adds counter appeal - totally unnecessary, but cool.

Good buy on the Nivea Sensitive ASB, and sub the EJ for a Parker 24c, per /u/leisureguy's post. He's never steered me wrong. Both purchases I've made based on his recommendations have worked out great, which were my Plisson brush and MR GLO.

As for the sample pack, you're probably better off spending some out-of-pocket dough on tryablade.com, or any of the other sample pack resellers. Get your money's worth.

P.S. - Don't forget to soak your boar brush (should you select it) in hot water for a few minutes before you try lathering with it. Boar brushes also have a break-in period, so be mindful that your first few shaves/lathers may be less than desirable.

it was a van der hagen brush, wasn't it? mine did the same thing. I replaced it with one of these. much better.

Razor: Edwin Jagger, ~$35, or the Parker 29L.

Brush: Omega 10048.

Soap: I haven't used proraso but it's the only thing I can think of that's available on amazon with the shipping. Maybe someone will chime in who knows. Here's the link to one of them.

Note: you may also want to buy some witch hazel, an alum block and a blade sampler. But, the blade sampler will be cheaper and better if you go through a site like tryablade.com or maggardrazors.com

Edwin Jaggers are on sale right now: http://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Ebony-Double-Safety/dp/B003LW4LJK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1416114456&sr=8-4&keywords=edwin+jagger+de89

This is the type of razor and this type of blade

Edit: these are the blade samples I ordered. It's only 80 not 100.

My Edwin Jagger Double Edge Safety Razor is stuck twisted close, it looks like the threading has a bit of buildup. Any tips for getting it opened? My barber has recommended I use a rust remover and let it sit in there, and I plan on doing that, but does anyone have any tips on how to get it opened in the first place?

Correct you are.

My Razor

I resolved this problem by buying a razor with a small vacuum in it (an older version of this model). All the hairs get pulled in as they're cut.

or these: http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-BeardTrimmer-adjustable-QT4070/dp/B003U8ESI4/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1457740681&sr=8-2&keywords=best+beard+trimmers

For body hair, a beard trimmer with an adjustable/removable guard and vacuum are my recommendation.

With Vaccuum

Without Vacuum

As for facial hair, does he have any interest in a shave kit with a safety/double edge razor? I can help there, but not so much with an electric for facial hair.

Yeah, I guess so.
I own this one which is similar to the one our linked to. I've had some problems where it doesn't cut some hairs all the way, so the end of the hair is still hanging on and ends up getting kind of annoying.

Or this which allows you to get the designer stubble look on your face if you wish: http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-Stubble-Moustach-Trimmer/dp/B003U8ESI4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1345595604&sr=8-1&keywords=philips+beard

And it has a vacuum to catch most of the hairs! I'm thinking about getting one soon.
1mm to 18mm, compared to the bodygroomer which is 3mm to 11mm. So you can get shorter and longer hair with this, which I would say is a big plus.

Obviously designed for your face but no issue using it anywhere else I assume.

I use one of these in a dry tub. The built in vacuum gets most of the trimmings. Afterwards, I use a canister vac to pick up the remaining.

When you look at this picture it's rather obvious I could use a good trim.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003U8ESI4

The vacuum is worth the money!

Beard trimmer

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003U8ESI4/ref=mp_s_a_1_17_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1473629072&sr=8-17&keywords=beard+trimmer&pi=SY200_QL40

I have that model, although I got it way cheaper and I would recommend shopping around for it.

Feather Double Edge Shaving Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003YJ70NY/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_DXoeub1JVDWVW

Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_.Xoeub144MZWE

I have the second one, waiting on feather one as travel item

If the 34c works well for you, you might consider a Feather Popular as a travel razor or a Dorco PL-602, both mild shavers, though the Dorco can be amped up a bit by loosening the handle.

Here's my routine.

What people don't tell you about wet shaving is that the real trick is in the Prep'... While I did disrespect the "Multi-Blade Cartridge Razors"; if you're just starting out they can be alright; but you can get a starter Double Edged Safety Razor for the price of a Gillette, and you'll be able to get replacement blades for .50 apeice. Disclaimer: I am a Jatai Feather fanboy.

The main thing to facilitate hair cutting is well hydrated hair, and the best thing for that is not to use anything that comes out of a pressurized can.

The chemicals used as propellants are drying agents and they use lubricants to make up for that... The problem being that the hairs themselves need to be wet to cut well. I've had both my father and a buddy of mine get better shaves just by using an oil and applying their regular canned cream over it - which is there more to keep the oil and cut hair from sticking to the blade than it is to facilitate the shave, IMHO

Would you say this is worth the money, or should I just stick with this?

I learned how to shave with the cheapie super aggressive one, so I've gotten used to the angle I need to shave on to not get cut. Though the angling makes it less forgiving, it usually takes me one pass, occasionally two to get a clean shave.

 

With the other two I've had to do up to 7 passes, but I still felt stubble.

 

I actually went back in my purchasing history, and found out the Merkur is the 23c.

 

EDIT - I actually forgot to mention that I have very coarse and thick hair coupled with sensitive skin.

What is you max budget?

Here is my recommendation for your kit(trying to keep with a budget):

Blade sampler $23

Edwin Jagger DE89 $30, it's the one I have and I love it.

This Omega Brush for $13, I have a similar Omega boar brush and love it. You have to soak it in hot tap water for about 5-10 minutes before you lather up to soften it up so it can absorb water.

For soap you could also consider C.O. Bigelow w/ menthol and eucalyptus $10, just got this at bath and body works for $5 in store (if you live near a store) and shaved with it today, it was fantastic, had a nice cooling effect to it and had a good protective lather. Taylor of Old Bond street is good as well, i have the sandalwood one(the hard soap) and it is fantastic. You have to consider they have hard soap, cream and sticks as well so you could look at those as well.

And as far as lathering you can lather in a bowl/mug or straight to the face, i like the face method thats just a personal bias though.

here ya go.

Razor
Blades

Now you can have the best shave you've ever had and not need blades for YEARS. Honestly, it takes a few times to get used to it, but just go slow. You're probably used to hacking at your face with multiblade garbage.

Blades

• So far, I've had best luck with Astra Stainless and Sharp. I usually just use a new blade for every shave (once a week). I do see the 1-4 numbers on the blade, does that indicate anything important? Haven't tried shimming the razor yet, I'm a bit too amateur I feel like.
  
  Soap
  
  
• Now that I think about it, the Eucalyptus Menthol-Formulation could be a factor to the irritation.
  
  
• I definitely will skip on the alum block next shave, and look into getting more blades. Could you recommend a good soap/cream??
  
  
• Thank you for your helpful input!!

Just a blade sampler pack.

This is what I bought a few weeks ago. 100 blades for about $25 (less if you're Amazon prime). Different blades definitely have different characteristics; this will give you a chance to try out some nice ones.

One you've got your DE, you'll be set. I've been using a new blade for every shave. A word of caution: the sharper edges of your knees can take a beating while using a DE (especially if it's a nice heavy one) if you're not cautious with your pressure/angle.

They are so sharp...it's kind of unbelievable.

I like these

They are often referred to as "Israeli Personnas" on forums/boards...I find that they work really well on my skin and aren't too sharp but also last a long time. Your results may vary.....but they do come in this sample pack which is a good idea!

Don't be! Its easy, reletively cheap to get into, its fun, and just start with a double edge safety razor and you'll be fine. You arent going to slice your face off. Trust me, you'll love shaving with it. Go to your local antique mall and look for something liek this Go to amazon and order a sampler pack of blades And possibly some shave soap and youre set!

You can find shave soap at Target/winco if you are in the USA as well. You can get brand-new razors on amazon, look for a company called merkur. Although there is nothing like having a vintage razor from the 50's. =) Check out that subreddit for more info. Even if you are female these work awesome legs and armpits. My wife uses one. And yes, its WAY cheaper than cartridge razors.

Sorry for the late reply.

This was the sampler pack I used...

http://www.amazon.com/Double-Safety-Razor-Blade-Variety/dp/B0038KA5RC/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1335280811&sr=8-4


However I don't know if I would recommend it, as you can see I had a lot of blades left over.

I don't need three 5 blade packs of a specific razor, because if I don't like it I have like 13 left.

I'm with you there! I hate it too.. takes too much time to apply.

I get in the shower. Let my face get really hot to loosen the hairs and then I shave.. I rarely cut myself, and it rarely hurts.
You might not be able to get away with no pain.. our faces are different after all.

I use a shower mirror.

If you can't do it in the shower try the hot washcloth method.

This might also be a good option for blades.

http://www.amazon.com/Double-Safety-Razor-Blade-Variety/dp/B0038KA5RC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420485166&sr=8-1&keywords=blade+assortment

You get a real good assortment of brands, that way you can see what works best for your skin.

congrats. I really enjoyed this Sampler pack. I enjoyed most and ended up really like the Durablade 7am. I bought a 100 pack of those. this lotion is amazing. $8 at target but lasts a long time!


Keep trucking. it keeps getting better :)

I am making the switch too. After reading a lot on here and talking with a buddy who uses a DE this is what I ordered (should be arriving today). Total cost was around $125. If anyone knows anything I should add let me know. (Edit formatting)

Double Edge Safety Razor Blade Variety Pack

Merkur Model 180 Long Handled Safety Razor

Taylor of Old Bond Street St. James Shaving Cream

Nick Relief Styptic Pencil

Colonel Conk Evernice Model 775 Chrome Safety Razor Stand

Tweezerman Men's Shaving Brush

Proraso Pre-shave Cream

I guess the only thing I can recommend is what I use.

I use this body:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NL0T1G

I use this shaving soap:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001JHEY14

I use a brush that came in a set from walmart back when I started using these 5 years ago.

And for the actual blade, I recommend getting a variety pack and deciding which one works best for you. (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038KA5RC) is an example of one.

I personally like stainless steel blades, but that comes down to personal preference and your facial hair type. If you are just starting I recommend getting a cheaper razor body (my first was some set I got for real cheap, thinking under $20, that came with a soap, a bowl for the soap, a brush, some blades, and a body.)

This has been covered before, and I recommend you head over to the FAQ's on the right.

That being said, the great thing about wet-shaving (i.e. using a brush and soap ISO gel) is that it gets your beard to actually stand up so the grain is of less hindrance. Notice I said "less" hindrance; grain is still important and relevant. So, you're on the right track if you start with a good kit that includes brush, soap and razor.

Now, on to Safety Razor vs Straight Razor debate, and trust me, it is a debate with both sides very vehemently and stringently for their side. However, and this is my $0.02, as you're a N00B, you should probably consider a Double Edge Safety Razor. The reason I suggest this is because there will be fewer differences between a DE and a cartridge (which is what you're using if you're not using a straight or safety razor). You can find lots of inexpensive ones, but this is definitely an area where you get what you pay for.

The problem with starting with a straight is that you have to worry about a lot more, e.g. blade maintenance, sight lines (it's a straight blade and your hand will be in your line of sight), blade types, and a whole slew of other things. Most people (who use them for a while and get the feel of them) end up preferring straights to DEs, but there is a severe learning curve with the straight.

So, here are a few recommendations for beginner sets. Very reasonably priced so if you give it a shot and decide it's not something you're into very much, you won't be out a lot of cash:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GMTKCK

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001A3HPT0

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AKFXN8

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038KA5RC (These can be broken in half to make two blades for a straight.)

sorry for the delay in response, you have most likely made your purchase by now. just in case though i ended up buying this sample pack: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0038KA5RC/ref=mp_s_a_2?qid=1331664130&sr=8-2
however my last purchase was of this http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001QY8QXM/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1331664130&sr=8-1 as they are really cheap and work fine for me.

1 Merkur Safety Razor, soap, bowl, stand, and badger brush for $95. This would be a christmas gift for my SO, which I would then most likely steal from him to shave as well. Depending on how it goes I may get one later on for personal use. I'm also thinking about getting this variety pack http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038KA5RC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A262S395NXGG8Z

That's why you order this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038KA5RC?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage

BUY A SAFETY RAZOR

Seriously. You'll save boatloads of money and you'll give yourself the best shave of your life. The initial start-up is a bit of an investment (~$50), but after that you'll only pay about $20-30 per year.

Buy a safety razor. This is a perfectly good one for $20 on Amazon. They can last your lifetime.

Next, buy these 100-count razor blades for $10 on Amazon. You can get 3-6 excellent shaves out of a blade before needing to change it. If you're not picky about a super close shave, you can get 10+. That's 300-600 excellent shaves for $10. Or 1,000+ okay shaves for $10.

Now of course, if you go the safety razor route, you'll also want to buy a brush and shaving soap. First the brush. Brushes come with either boar hair or badger hair. Badger hair is superior quality, but's naturally more expensive. Boar hair is perfectly sufficient, it's just not quite as smooth or durable. If your want to try this whole straight razor thing out for a while first before investing any more money than necessary, go with a boar hair brush. You can find them pretty easily at Wal-Mart and Target these days for $5-10, but here's one on Amazon for $11. You may be able to find one for cheaper -- I only spent a few seconds searching.

Next we have the soap. Personally, I'm a big fan of Proraso Shaving Soap for $10 on Amazon -- it comes with its own bowl, so no need to buy one. Naturally it depends on how often you shave, but these last quite a while. I shave 2-3 times per week and I probably go through maybe three a year. There are of course many options - you can also consider buying the solid soap bars that go in a little bowl. I feel like these last even longer. I think I once bought a 3-pack for $15. It lasted me almost 2 years.

Alternatively, many vendors and stores sell combo packs that will include all or most of these components. I know I've seen them at Target and Wal-Mart. I can't attest to the quality, but I'm sure they're perfectly acceptable for a newbie that wants to try it out and see if he likes it. If you decide any of the individual components aren't meeting your standards, you can easily buy an upgrade on Amazon.

Switch to a safety razor. I implore you. It's the best and closest shave you'll ever give yourself - and it costs a fraction of what the stupid Gillette, etc., razors cost.

Sweet - ended up getting:

http://www.whippeddog.com/products/view/sight-unseen-razor - $41

http://www.whippeddog.com/products/view/poor-man-strop-kit - $25

http://www.whippeddog.com/products/view/styptic-pencil - $2

http://www.amazon.com/health-personal-care/dp/B003BWNR9A - $16

http://alsshaving.com/7-Day-Set-Sampler-Pack-7dsSC.htm - $17

So, pretty much exactly what you recced. $101 as you said, before shipping costs. Probably $120ish after all's said and done. Thanks! Looking into all this stuff makes me want to pick some of this up for myself.

I got my first taste by going to the local pharmacy store, picking up the VDH Starter Kit, a Styptic pencil, some Shave Secret, and bag of two blade disposables. After about a week, I went back and got aftershave lotion and went to Bath&Body Works and got some C.O. Bigelow.

Just last week I finally decided to take the next step and I ordered a basic Lord DE, Blade sampler, and a nicer Brush. I can't wait for this all to come in. giddy

wow thanks for the speedy reply! i've seen a lot of your posts and i've got to say, you're probably one of the most helpful/underrated accounts on reddit. and i've checked your book out, and there's a very good chance that i'm going to be getting it!

so i think i'm going to go with the $65 kit to start off, and if i need upgrades it'll (progressively) be the razor, this [soap] (http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Glycerin-Shave-Soap-Rasoio/dp/B001MF3FO0/ref=sr_1_6?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1323361007&sr=1-6), and maybe the brush.

does that seem like a pretty good way to get started?

edit: formatting

Both the alcohol aftershave and alum block dry out your face. For me, its a very good thing because it helps clear out the psoriasis scales/acne, and yeah i use the aftershave lotion/balm to counteract that. Be very careful with the lotion/balm tho. if you use too much it can clog pores and cause breakouts, so i recommend using as little as possible. I've used several types of pre-shave oil but so far Maggard Razors is my favorite, I find that it really leaves my skin plump. How are you using the pre-shave oils? Also keep in mind that you don't have to spend an arm and a leg for a quality brush. My go to is the Omega Pro 48. Proraso White is great also.

Okay... So I've added to my "to buy" list...

blades

maybe this

brush

stand

A lot of people are going to recommend a lot of different razors, I just started wet shaving a couple weeks ago and I bought a Merkur 34c. I'm really happy with it, some people don't like the length of the handle but it only took me a couple shaves to get used to it. I wear a XL glove for reference and I have no problems with it. I also like how much heft that the razor has, it allows for no pressure and lets the weight of the razor do the work for you. I was really surprised with the weight when I first got it, for as small as it is I was not expecting so much heft when I first picked it up. Regardless of which razor you choose I think you'll make a good decision.

As for brushes I recommend this Omega brush. It's a great brush for the price, can't go wrong with it. It's a boar brush so there is a breaking in period. With any brush you're bound to lose some hairs the first couple shaves so don't freak out, it should stop in a couple weeks and you still may loose a hair here and there every once in a while. If you're still loosing a lot of hairs after about a month I'd contact the seller and get a replacement as it could be a faulty knot.

As for creams and soaps there's so much. It's helps to know what scents you like the most and choose from there. Proasso, Taylor of Old Bond Street and Stirling Soaps are I few I'd personally recommended. But like I said there's a whole great big world of soaps and creams to choose from.

My knowledge is limited to the items I've referenced above and there are a lot more shavers here that can point you in a better direction, but for the money you can't go wrong with these. I hope this helps you on your journey to wet shaving and if you have any more questions I'd be glad to answer them to the best of my knowledge.

EDIT: I forgot to mention to pick up a blade sample pack. Regardless of the razor you choose, a blade that works for you can go a long way.

Omega Shaving Brush #10048 Boar Bristle aka The PRO 48 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003BWNR9A/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_VCJNub04C5KPY

This is one of the best brushes out there at a price that won't break the bank. However, your current one should last plenty long enough to save up for a new one! Tlax and enjoy your new shaves!

I am looking at this one instead: Omega Shaving Brush #10048 Boar Bristle aka The PRO 48

What do you think?

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003BWNR9A/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2WOM416R2DECW&coliid=I109P5A5N3V7B7&psc=1

The side bar has a link for it! :) Beyond that, Maggard Razor's kit works wonders. For something different, /u/leisureguy posted this and links back to it often. He also, at one point, tried out cheaper brushes/razors such as the kabuki and the sodial. I'm not sure how those two worked out for him, though. He really seems to prefer the Omega S-Brush, though. Here's a link. I believe this is an Omega S-Brush on Amazon. Someone correct me if I'm wrong?

Bowl latherer. When I shave, I start with my head for the standard three passes then I move on to my face and shave around a beard that takes up most of my face.

If relevant - I use the Omega Pro 48 brush. I've gotten solid lathers out of the Arko stick and a couple of different Maggards soaps.

I would recommend an Omega 48, it was part of my first DE kit. I treated it with hair conditioner at the start to soften it up and still use it with soaps. Gives a great lather on heavy beard.

If you're interested in boar, I'm a big fan of my Omega Pro48. The one major difference between Boar & Badger (aside from stiffness) is the need for a break-in period. There's a pretty strong animal odor at first and the hairs are quite scritchy.

But after a few weeks of shaving the Pro48 is easily one of my top brushes.

I used to use that brush, but after seeing it mentioned multiple times by /u/Leisureguy I ordered the Omega 10048. It is only a couple dollars more than the Escali, and it took about a month fully break in (aka, get the stink out) but now it is far softer while also being firmer than the Escali was.

Makes it great for face lathering.

edit: replaced 'fast' with 'face'

Hey! I've been DE shaving for about 2 years or so and I can definitely say it saves money. I didn't get into it as a hobby so it's still been pretty cheap. In fact, I'm using the soap I started with. I've linked everything I bought when I started (I can't find the blades though).

soap
razor
brush

I would then suggest getting a variety pack of razor blades. That way you can figure out which one really works best for your skin. I used to get red bumps/razor burn whenever I shaved with a Venus. That never happens to me now. I had learned that the more razor blades, the higher the chance of irritation. Now, some days I get a ridiculously smooth shave and some days I don't. However, I think that's a reflection of my skin, not this method of shaving.

Let me know what other questions you may have! I really love this way of shaving! Good luck!

Link:

http://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Ebony-Double-Safety/dp/B003LW4LJK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410227938&sr=8-1&keywords=DE86


http://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-DE89Lbl-Detail-Chrome/dp/B002RBF1PO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=undefined&sr=8-1&keywords=DE89

Hey. We're glad to have you. Definitely a worthwhile endeavor. Anything that says sensitive skin on it will (that is of quality) should be good. I'd start here:

proraso

or here:

TOBS sensitive

As far as the DE razor, I've been shaving for over half a year with one DE and absolutely love it- the Edwin Jagger DE86. here


I'm not saying it's the best. It's just the only razor I have experience with. But I am very pleased with it. It helped me find a blade I like and I feel like a DE pro now. But there are others that are good as well. See sidebar for more information.


And of course- the proper legal disclaimer: YMMV.

Razor

[Not exactly the same blade package, but similar.]
(http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Hi-Stainless-Platimum-Double-Blades/dp/B0022R947O) 50 blades for $15 and they last ~7 shaves each.

You should be able to get a nice one for about $30. Amazon has the best collection of relatively inexpensive handles like this one: http://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-De86bl-Double-Safety/dp/B003LW4LJK

Lots of great choices $30-$40. I prefer this over much more expensive ones: https://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Ebony-Double-Safety/dp/B003LW4LJK/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1481662359&sr=8-1&keywords=edwin%2Bjagger%2Bde86bl&th=1

I'll blame that on a brain fart. I try not to ramble by nature. Anyways what I've been using is some Derby blades in an Edwin Jagger razor. I bought this shave kit and am using the brush and soap.

What I do is start with a hot shower and wash my face. I use a preshave oil that i got in an Art of Shaving sampler kit (so far im not a fan of this stuff). I make a lather and then spend a couple minutes applying said lather to my face. What I've been doing is trying to find the angle by going 90degrees to my face and rotating the blade down until I feel the razor, then I shave with the grain. I do both sides of my face, then I shave upwards under my chin about half way. Once I get to my chin and mustache I basically forget how to shave and proceed to butcher my face. I'm trying to go with the grain (still finding that pattern) then relather and do a second pass across the grain.

Then I use an alum block, rinse the face, dry and apply a balm. I'm trying a nivea balm now but I tried a neutrogena one as well. I'm liking both so far but I think it's too early to tell.

I think one problem I have is that I'm used to "I definitely feel the hair being cut" from cartridge blades so when I make a pass and feel nothing, my brain takes over and out of habit goes "That clearly didn't work, press harder or go sharper"

I bought this and a sample pack of razors, and decided astra were the best for my skin. I would definitely try it if I were you, it helped a ton.

Safety razors are the best! Superior shave (only one pass needed!) and extremely cheap after razor is bought. :)

Try this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003LW4LJK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&th=1

And a variety pack of blades to find which you like: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01548BADS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You can use any foamy shaving cream you like. Barbasol does the job for me.

And I thought I was a fancy pants because I ordered one of these today instead of a questionable $2 chinese thing called the sodial.

It's my first and now I'm scared for my wallet that someone makes razors this expensive.

Sampler

DE Blade

[Alum]
(http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VXELII/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2BHMCU53S5CWK)

I do have a shaving lotion currently, got it with my Harrys kit, it seems to work for me although I do not have a brush. I apply it using my hands, is a brush necessary for a good shave?

Edwin Jagger DE with the Blue Bird blade from this sampler pack.

Usually three or four strokes WTG and ATG.

For a long while, I had my beard trimmed by barbers with solid enough service locally, but then I bought THIS and it is just great. Wireless + long charge + contour comb attachment + vacuum to suck up all hair as you trim = no mess, perfect length, lots of money saved annually. Very happy with my decision.

Lost my beard trimmer charger and I have no clue what type of charger it its. If it helps, here is the beard trimmer.

Sorry, dude. Your invention already exists.

First off, you look fine. Great, even. The only thing that I might suggest is to trim the beard and to put a little product in your hair. Something to keep it from being so fluffy.

I use this to trim up my beard and couldn't be happier. In the winter I use it to keep my beard from getting all straggly and when I don't have a beard I use the stubble mode to keep me from being too baby-faced.

Likewise, I use this for my hair. It's dirt cheap, doesn't look like you have 'stuff' in your hair, and lasts for a long time. There's no need to spend $20 on a single jar of the fancy stuff, this works just as well.

Secondly, the reason you're kissless/dateless/handholdless and have no self-esteem has nothing to do with your outward appearance. I was just like you in high school and through most of college. I was 19 before I had my first kiss and did anything remotely romantic with a girl. Honestly, the only reason it happened was because the girl made all the moves and I was along for the ride. I would have been much older if it were completely up to me.

The thing that blew me away, and if I were a betting man I'd say it will be your story too, was going to my 10 year high school reunion. I had a half-dozen or more girls that I had crushes on come up to me and tell me that they had crushes on me; they just wanted me to ask them out.

You gotta do it, man. You can do it. You're attractive, you're worthwhile, and you're special. Put yourself out there and ask a great girl out before you're old and filled with regret.

Swear by it

I've been using this on my face for about 5 months and I really like it!

Before I started really growing my beard out I used this phillips norelco with the vacuum thingy. And I hate it, but too cheap to buy something different. It leaves some hairs partially cut, so it causes the hairs to tear, and can be pretty painful. So stay away.

Nope, each country is different. I was screened flying into BKK, but I wasn't screened flying into HND for example (Where the Thai immigration police promptly confiscated my trimmer, http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-BeardTrimmer-adjustable-QT4070/dp/B003U8ESI4 - Not mad at all, I swear). The prohibited items are generally the same, but each airport allows for different flexibility. For example, flying out of ITM everyone was allowed to take a bottle of liquid into the sanitized area - I saw a few iced teas and sodas go through. Try that at any airport in the US and you'll get taken into a back room for a "thorough screening".

I use the QT4070

I strongly recommend this too. I stopped shaving as well and the amount of irritation I got went away dramatically.

I used a cheap trimmer that I found somewhere for a while but I got this as an early christmas present and love it: http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-QT4070-41-Packaging/dp/B003U8ESI4

Never looked back

https://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-BeardTrimmer-adjustable-QT4070/dp/B003U8ESI4

just get one of these.

They have a vacuum that grabs ALOT of the hair , i dont have to clean the sink anymore :D .

This is what I use. I gave up clean-shaving over a year ago and switched to the trimmer and am quite happy with it.

Like zzzaz said, it has a guard where I set the length that I desire and get a good stubble all along. Trimming above the lips is a bit tricky because there is not much room for maneuvering. But all in all, a worthwhile investment for me.

It might not fit your needs exactly, but I've been using the Norelco 7300 for over 2 years now and have really enjoyed it It holds a charge ridiculously well, and the vacuum feature is great for cleanup.

The reason I suggest it for travel is because it holds a charge so well. I use it 2-3 times a week and have probably charged it less than 10 times over those 2 years. This is only the second trimmer I've had, though, so that could be standard and I wouldn't know it.

Buy one of these to clean up the strays and keep rocking it!

That's a shaver. You want a beard trimmer.

Try something like this

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-QT4070-Stubble-Mustache/dp/B003U8ESI4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368107375&sr=8-1&keywords=QT4070

This one can trim at 1 mm increments (from 1 to 18 mm) length. It also has a built in vacuum to make cleanup easier.

Personally I just use the flip out trimmer on my electric razor, although right now I have a full beard, not just stubble.

I use this trimmer that vacuums most of the hairs.
Pretty happy with it.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003U8ESI4/ref=oh_details_o06_s01_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That looks pretty nice, I swear by this bad boy, it has a little vacuum that sucks in the hairs and you can easily empty it in the toilet for easy disposal. Also you can just turn a knob and change the length.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003U8ESI4/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1397535248&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

I have he Philips 4070 beard trimmer and really love it. Trims well, especially on turbo mode, battery life is very good, good length range, nice design. Feels very solid. Might not be BIFL but it will last years for sure, given I trim about once a week.

The vacuum feature only semi works, but I don't mind, I trim over the sink. Price is great on Amazon at $50 and $5 coupon.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003U8ESI4/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr0_2?qid=1421946238&sr=8-2-fkmr0&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70

Bought this about a month ago, so far it's been great, the measurements are displayed on either side of the head as well as a nice illuminated screen on the front. It holds a good charge and the vacum feature actually works really really well to the point where I can walk around while I'm getting ready in the morning while trimming rather than hovering over the sink.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003U8ESI4/ref=oh_o04_s00_i00_details

I have heard great things about this one, and I am planning on picking it up.
Philips Norelco

Don't use that overpriced crap. I use this: https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY/ and get yourself one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Shark-Double-Safety-Blades-Chrome/dp/B003BWQX46/
and you're pretty much set for life.

Ah man it's not a huge investment! They're SOOO much better than even the gillette platinum ones!

This is only 15 bucks for a solid handle. You can spend a lot more, but you don't need to.

Their blades aren't super expensive and they're noticably sharper than even the premium US brands and those you get from those boutique shops in the mall.

Match that with a solid Badger Hair brush and high quality moisturizing soap you're talking under 60 bucks total investment and it's a massive step up in quality and overall experience while shaving.


But for travel, a Defender razor with a pack of blades can't be beat. They're inexpensive, they are disposable, they last a reasonable amount of time, and apart from a premium safety razor, they shave closer than any other disposable I've found, even better than a mach 3, they also rinse super easy.

To answer your question, I would strongly recommend safety razors which use double-edge (DE) blades. I too don't shave much and this was by far the best option for me economically and environmentally. I also transitioned away from Gillette on principle. What a disgusting ad! And what a delight to see the company suffer an $8-billion loss. Karma bitches!

Going back on topic, I started out with a cheap plastic beginner razor made by Feather. It is $20.99 at Amazon AU at the moment so it won't cost you an arm and a leg.

https://www.amazon.com.au/Feather-Double-Shaving-Stainless-Popular/dp/B003YJ70NY/

It comes with Feather 2 blades. Just make sure you watch YouTube videos and read about wet shaving for beginners. Join r/WickedEdge for some good advice. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time when you start out and don't rush. It's totally different to 'normal' cartridge shaving and it's infinitely better. Good luck mate!

I would say go DE.

SODIAL

Plus a sampler blade pack and your set to start for about 25. Watch some youtube videos and your going to start enjoying shaving. When you ready order a brush and creams. This way you get a low cost start. I know how hard money is when in classes.

Also if you decide to go SR after you don't really loose much investment.

www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00A7239EK

Looking at the DE starter kit in the suggestions on the side-bar. The Sodial came down to $2.75 on Amazon, so I'll start with the full basic kit. Gonna grab a brush from Wal-Greens on my way home from work and wait for the rest of the stuff to come in haha!

Current shopping list:

• Sodial $2.32
  
  
• Arko Soap Stick $4.11
  
• Blade Sampler $21.49
  
• Bamboo Ecobrush $8.00
  
• TOTAL = $35.92
  
  All I need now is a soap cup for lathering...

That's interesting. I was under the impression that they were all the same razor but its not just the handle thats different. There are notches on my original Chinese razor that aren't there on the new ones. Also, there are notches that are less pronounced. Both times I ordered from HERE
First order was May 7, second was September 30.

Thanks for the advice! I was looking at samplers, but the price of those Personas are appealing, so I had to ask.

This is what I was looking at for a kit:

• Razor
  
• Brush
  
• Shaving soap
  
• Blade Sampler
  
• Nick Relief
  
  I know this stuff probably isn't the best (I was only looking at the under $50 section for this stuff), but I wanted to try things out before I spent more money. Are there any big issues with this potential kit?
  
  As for the aftershave, do I have to use it, or can it just be a lotion, like Aveeno? It's what I currently apply after shaving right now.
  
  Also, I noticed some people get bowls and stands. Are they necessary? Can I just use a small glass that I wash now and then instead?

Feather ftw

1. Razor = Merkur Long Handle. Elegant and easy to use, works well for me.
   
2. Soap, Cup, and Brush = Gentleman's Hangar. Soap is lavender and lathers very well. Brush is synthetic and works nicely.
   
3. Blades = Feather. Shaves like the samurai they were designed for.
   
   Source:
   
   
4. https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Long-Handled-Safety-Razor/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1483936030&sr=1-1&keywords=merkur+long+handle
   
   
5. https://www.amazon.com/Gentlemans-Hangar-Mens-Vintage-Shaving/dp/B01BXA38ZY
   
   
6. https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Blades-Count/dp/B00AGG3MNU/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1483936060&sr=1-1&keywords=feather%2Brazor%2Bblades&th=1

I get these: http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Blades-Count/dp/B00AGG3MNU/ref=pd_sbs_hpc_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=10PH1EWTGDPCH0RNQNXS

You're still speaking for others and I'm nothing special. Just learn how to use it before hacking away at your face and use good shaving cream and most importantly a good new blade. It's not rocket surgery, you can figure it out if you try.

blades shouldn't be more than a quarter https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Blades-Count/dp/B00AGG3MNU/

1. Slicing off skin (especially with warts on it) is one of my interests. If you are able to get photos or videos it'd be great if you posted it, not just the end results.
   
2. You're not doing much, if anything, for the tissue with the virus. Take a lage bowl and fill it with ice, a little bit of water, and a bunch of salt. Soak your foot in it for 5-10 minutes. This will numb it and reduce the pain a great deal. Water level should come up to at least the top of your foot, if not your ankle. You can also apply a tourniquet above the ankle if you want to minimize the bleeding. Then, start cutting and go as deep as you can. I'd suggest buying a scalpel online, and / or razor blades for a safety razor (like this https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Blades-Count/dp/B00AGG3MNU). A sharp blade causes less pain and makes it easier to go deeper. Good luck!

Just get an Amazon Dash button. You could pay nearly $1.90 per blade through Harry's or $0.24 per blade for feathers and just press the dash button when you need more.

I have sensitive skin on my face personally, I found a type of razor that actually helps to reduce the irritation. Safety razors (yeah I know kind of old school) But when using them it helps to reduce irritation significantly (at least in my experience) I personally use a Merkur safety razor. You can also get womens safety razors but for whatever reason they cost more. On top of that I use a boar hair brush, but some people prefer badger hair brushes as they are softer and are easier to use on softer soaps. Then go onto r/wicked_edge as they have tutorials on how to use the type of razors. You can also look for shaving soaps that contain aloe or things to soothe the skin during shaving. So look at the links and determine what would be best, you can also look further for other types of soaps, blades, and the razor itself. You will also need some sort of bowl to keep the shaving cream. You will and a stand to keep the soap from ruining the knot inside of the brush itself. This type of set up made it so I don't get ingrown hairs or irritation.

https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Long-Handled-Safety-Razor/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1492538437&sr=1-1&keywords=women%27s+safety+razor

https://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Shaving/dp/B008YDXM28/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1492538388&sr=8-1&keywords=womens+shaving+soap

https://www.amazon.com/Bassion-Crafted-Shaving-Professional-Engineered/dp/B016I77CJA/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1492538521&sr=1-2&keywords=women%27s+shaving+brush

https://www.amazon.com/Semogue-1250-Natural-Bristle-Shaving/dp/B004OJU968/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1492538552&sr=1-1&keywords=boar+hair+shaving+brush

https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Blades-Count/dp/B00AGG3MNU/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1492538755&sr=1-3&keywords=feather+razor+blades

https://www.amazon.com/AKStore-Durable-Shinning-Stainless-Insulation/dp/B01E5J5SW6/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1492538844&sr=1-4&keywords=Shaving+bowl

I use this...http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Futur-Safety-Razor-Finish/dp/B000JPKLUU

set to 6.

and this...http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AGG3MNU/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687762&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B001G5FOLI&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=11XG319FHKP8A5J1XZXE

That is all...as close as it gets with one to two passes. Aggressive.

Hello fellow bald dude. Can I lay a suggestion on you? I use this safety razor. I use a new blade every shave. I use these Feather razor blades. I don’t complain about the cost blades and I always get the best shave compared to any other razor I’ve ever used. Saves a ton of money and a better shave!

Feather Double Edge Blades, 50 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AGG3MNU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_QlpOzb7A03XWG

Thanks found it on prime. I'll go with these. I do not need anything special just don't want bad ones. I appreciate your help

It's way cheaper. I only do a few times with each blade, maybe 4-5 though you could probably get more. I get like 50 blades for $15 on Amazon.

Feather Double Edge Blades, 50 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AGG3MNU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Mshsyb12YQ268

Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ithsybSPNB9Z7

/r/wicked_edge for alot of info but I just started shaving alone at 31! I started with a Shavette too so pretty hard. But my ritual works like a charm.

1. Take a hot shower.
   
2. when you are done. come out and wash your face with some Glycerene soap . Any some with the same contents works. I leave it for around 1 mins. Then apply shaving cream lather on top of it.
   
3. Time to make some lather! use a brush it helps moisturizing and massaging the lather into your beard and pores. Two types of Brushes:
   
   

• Synthetic hair brush. option one. Good option 2 cheaper Just keep in mind if you go synthetic then buy shaving creap and not soap.
  
• Boar/Badger - You will need to pay up here. I went Silvertip Badger which is the finest but with the cheapest brush. This has a whole different prep so PM if you wanna shell out a few extra bucks but live in bliss. keep in mind that Synthetic is just as good.
  
  
• Buy a shaving bowl or any soap bowl will do, take your brush into the soap/cream. For soaps creams buy something with Glycerine1 My favorite scent is this one 2. See this video to make lather
  
  

4. Shave. With the grain or across as a beginner. A good Double edge safety razor to start with some blades very sharp so careful
   
   
5. When you are done splash your face with some cold water onceor twice. Use an alum block around your face. If it burns alot it means you were too rough on that area. After that a splash of with hazel.
   
   
6. Wait a few mins and use some nivea sensitive after shave balm
   
   Remember always pat your face with the towel to dry. Dont rub.
   
   Tips on how to shave with a DE are plentiful on youtube.
   
   Enjoy. Feel like a Boss.

There are tons of blade manufacturers, you just have to find ones that work I use these and they are amazing. Even if you shave every day, a pack of 50 blades will last at least a year, often two.

Well there's a treasure trove of information about advice at /r/wickededge, but personally I use an Edwin Jaeger (either DE86 or DE89, I forget), with Feather blades (I recommend not to try them until you're experienced with the safety razor, they're ridiculously sharp) and Proraso soap with Proraso preshave. Amazon links:

http://amzn.com/B003LW4L2W - razor

http://amzn.com/B00AGG3MNU - blades

http://amzn.com/B001MF3FMW - soap

http://amzn.com/B000RIAD0W - preshave

You'll also need a badger hair brush - http://amzn.com/B00LDYFGFQ

This set up should last you a really long time, and it's not that expensive. Probably cheaper than a few months worth of crappy cartridges.

Yep, here you go! Just be sure to read up on how to use em right and you'll be A-Ok!

WEISHI Nostalgic Long Handle Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_lu2GAb8WRBF85
Astra Platinum Double Edge Safety Razor Blades ,100 Blades (20 x 5) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001QY8QXM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_3t2GAbWN6QDYA

If you're looking for a very mild razor I've got a black Weishi I've only used a few times. I can ship it to you with some Derby Extra blades for $8. I don't have it with me to take a picture but here's the exact same one:

https://www.amazon.com/WEISHI-Handle-Version-Butterfly-Double/dp/B00PKHIDRA

the three I saw were the Weishi, the [Dorco] (https://www.amazon.com/Dorco-Prime-Starter-Set-Butterfly/dp/B00T5EQC1I/ref=sr_1_2?s=prime-day&psr=PD16&ie=UTF8&qid=1468374651&sr=1-2&keywords=DE+razor), and the Smoothere all around 15 dollars or less. the Dorco set seemed like the best deal.

My bad:

WEISHI Long Handle Version Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_FVSbogLk4sNBz

Personally I bought one of the top rated ones on Amazon. I think it was around 20 bucks. You can obviously go all out for them but if they hold the blade and don't fall apart, thats all you really need.



Edit: Link

Currently leaning towards WIESHI's longhandled at $17

Of course, no worries! Go slow with the safety razor and look for a butterfly closure one, I have the one below and I like that I can control the tension on the blade.

WEISHI Long Handle Version Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_xK0Lzb4T3VSWW

Sounds like there's only one option left! You can grab a good safety razor from amazon for about $20, and one hundred platinum-coated blades for under $10.

There are some that cost 100 but you can find a great one for much cheaper, like around 50-60. Read some reviews off the internet and make sure it has a grated handle, if it doesn't have a grated handle it becomes very slippery when when wet. The other things is that different razors do better with different blades but I've yet to find a razor that doesn't work great with either feather blades or the Astra superior platinum so I would recommend buy a small pack of each to try.


I bought this one for less than 20 bucks for travel and it works really well with feather blades. It doesn't have the nice weight you get from a higher quality razor and the perfect blade stability, but it's still better than a cartridge razor and will get you started until you can save up for something better. When I get home I will send you some other things you should get.

https://www.amazon.com/WEISHI-Nostalgic-Handle-Butterfly-Double/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=Safety+razor&qid=1556324878&s=gateway&sr=8-3

You could buy a double edge safety razor from Amazon and then buy a sample of different razors to see which ones suit you.
I bought my razors last July and still have a bunch. They tend to last forever and are dirt cheap.
I didnt get this razor but its similar with pretty good reviews.
WEISHI Nostalgic Long Handle Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.csWCbC1NEWSB

These are the sample razors I mentioned
Double Edge Razor Blade Sample Pack (2x each) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6EEZ60/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OfsWCbBJFFJSK

The samples didnt last long but I found the one I liked ordered them and have had them since july.

Dollar shave club is a joke. They suck really bad.

Let me introduce you to the real 10¢ shave club.

Safety razor 20$

Blades 10$

Alum for after shave 10$

40$/365 = about 10¢ per day.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PKHIDRA/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

Works fine for me

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PKHIDRA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I got this one because it wasn't too expensive and had good reviews, idk if it'll suit your needs like it will mine tho

This is the one I bought. It's just a cheap one I found since I wasn't sure if I'd like it. Haven't had any problems whatsoever apart from the blades being kinda rough. I'd suggest buying a pack of blades as well since the ones that come with the razor are bad quality.

I frequent /r/wicked_edge. if you're just looking to break into wet shaving, I would look at something like this. I have this razor, along with far too many others for my wife's liking. it provides a very good shave, and is quite affordable. The Astra blades you linked are a good price, but the same blade doesn't yield the same result for everyone, so you might want to stat with a blade sampler pack and see which blade feels best on your face. When it comes to brushes, the sky really is the limit, I like big, thick hair knots on my brush, others like them a little floppy(ok, that sounds slightly dirty) anything in badger should do you fine to start out.

Do not get any of that stuff. If you HAVE to go Amazon and have up to $50.00 see my links below.
Feather Popular - https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1486502607&sr=8-1&keywords=feather+popular

Satin Tip the Purest Syth shaving brush - https://www.amazon.com/~Shave-Brush~-Satin-Tip-Purest/dp/B011PXWQ8E/ref=sr_1_9_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1486502653&sr=8-9&keywords=synthetic+shaving+brush

Cella shaving cream bowl - https://www.amazon.com/Cella-Shaving-Creme-Bowl-150gr/dp/B002Y1451S/ref=sr_1_7_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1486502738&sr=8-7&keywords=stirling+soap

Then buy Aqua Velva or Nivea Post shave balm at a drug store to clock you in right at 50 bucks or a couple of dollars over.
To be clear, while I love the high end Feather AS-D2, I am not overly thrilled about the budget Feather Popular. Still, it is $15.00 and I think better than any of the other razors you linked to, so i went ahead and listed it. The brush and shaving cream are solid and reputable budget picks though from what I have seen.

That should get you up and running but really you should buy a Maggards or Stirling kit if you can swing it. You get way more bang for the buck.

That's awesome! Where are you doing your training?

This is the razor: http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1413687866&sr=8-4&keywords=feather+razor

The Arko soap is hit and miss with people. I'm new to it so my lather skills aren't the best but I was able to get a great lather with a basic pure badger brush (http://www.amazon.com/SimplyBeautiful-Basic-Badger-Shaving-Brush/dp/B00B1TKY8C/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1413688692&sr=8-2&keywords=badger+brush).
For $1 per stick though, can't really go wrong.
Here's a video of a review on the Arko soap: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9r5A259cDqE
Don't mind his somewhat heavy breathing at times.
The soap really does smell like industrial cleaner but I kind of like it! And it doesn't stick around for long.
If you're unsure, to start I woud definitely recommend some form of shaving cream. They are easiest to lather and work with. Just cracked open my Nivea today and it was a decent shave! Not too much of a scent, nice and slick and $3/tube. http://www.amazon.com/Nivea-Men-Sensitive-Shave-Cream/dp/B00GXZSAE4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1413688904&sr=8-2&keywords=nivea+shaving+cream

Here's what I suggest:

Feather Popular razor

Mitchell's wool fat soap

Razorock synthetic brush

Here is the desktop version of your link

I have a Van Der Hagen and it's not bad. Maybe mine was a quality control exception, but the alignment and finish are perfect. It's got decent heft to it, but personally I like a lighter razor. The blades it comes with are crap though.

But my favorite sub-$20 razor is from Feather. Sure it's plastic, but it's some sort of magical plastic that feels like powder coated metal, is indestructible, but is light as a, well..., Feather. It's definitely the better shave than the VDH, I prefer the Feather's blade angle.

http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY

If you just want one to try it out, take a look at this:

http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421547383

It's not BIFL, but it does a great job, and it's a bit less money to risk...if you get that and like it, then you can invest in a better one

Shave before you go to bed. Also, make sure that you are using a good razor. I use Cremo shave creme and a fairly inexpensive razor from Feather that is amazing(and inexpensive) that I learned about after reading an article about the 6 best safety razors that you can buy(this one wasn't in the list, but the user recommended it for those who couldn't afford the Feather razor that was in the list.)

https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY

So if I want to use a DE, should I go with a standard razor holder over the shavette?

I bought this DE razor for use specifically downstairs... it's actually really good for the job, and pretty cheap!

Eddwin Jagger d89 razor that I own
Feather popular

Try Feather Razor, it is a very good razor for beginners. It was my first too.

Here's the one I recommend. It's very cheap, works better than the metal one I had before it, it's very safe (you can't catch the edge of the blade and cut yourself while shaving, and when you tighten the top all the way the blade doesn't stick out too far), it's a very familiar feel compared to your standard disposable razors and really nice quality for something made of plastic. Even though it's cheap, it feels like they used the materials because they're the right ones for the job, not just the cheapest they could find.

I have medium bushy brows and pluck weekly, trim every other week. Don't be afraid your brows will come out looking horrible, they grow back quick and compared to a clear face, hairstyle, staches and beards people will rarely notice your brows.

If you're on the lazy side, use nose hair trimmers.

https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-ER-GN30-K-Nose-Hair-Trimmer/dp/B0049LUI9O/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1474853811&sr=1-7&keywords=nose+hair+trimmer

Here's an electric one.

well then this will complete my arsenal of shaving/grooming products.

• Philips BG2040 body groomer
  
  
• Panasonic ER GN30 K nose hair trimmer
  
  
• Remington MB 200 trimmer - i use for pubes and pits
  
  
• Merkur DE for real shaving
  
  nothing really goood though so far for stubble, excited this will be here on friday

I have this one and it's OK but doesn't get much closer than 1/16" or 1/32". No BBS.

Cheap nose hair trimmer that works great

A trimmer to keep your face groomed.

Oh man, I just bought the best one. Trust me. Panasonic ER-GN30. Check the reviews on Amazon. The Conair one I had before was okay but this one blows it out of the water. Makes quick work of nose hairs.

Invest, man: http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-ER-GN30-K-Vortex-Facial-Trimmer/dp/B0049LUI9O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373742056&sr=8-1&keywords=nose+hair+trimmer

Stupid as it may be, I bought one of these about a year ago. Works great. I have no complaints.

http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-ER-GN30-K-Vortex-Facial-Trimmer/dp/B0049LUI9O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344729417&sr=8-1&keywords=noise+hair+trimmer

Bring that. Problem solved.

I got my husband this. Like $12, works great. You could also use little tiny scissors but the trimmer is more efficient.

Here you are

I use this and it works pretty good.

You probably won't get sick any more of less if you trim your nose hair all the way down. I keep mine trimmed & I hardly ever get colds or anything.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0049LUI9O/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You can get a good one with multiple uses on Amazon for $15.

I got this one 4 months ago and love it! I use it to trim my nostril hairs and tighten up my eyebrows since I have pretty beastly ones.

Waxing nose hairs isn't a good idea - you need those hairs. Get a nose hair trimmer like this, only $13 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0049LUI9O/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0049LUI9O/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I am horrible at this! And I always get razor burn. I use this thing called an Alum Block. It's been the best thing.

You can find them in online shave shops (for example, here or here) or just on Amazon, which is where I got mine.

When you're done shaving and rinse off any hair / shaving cream, simply wash off with cold water and wet the block then wipe down shaved area with it. You can also use it just on nicks, by wetting the block and wiping the cut with it (for bigger cuts, there's also Styptic pens).

It's an astringant and has antibacterial properties - you can also see some sciency bits in this discussion.

I see, thank you i'll be sure to switch up my pre-shave. (Here's what I was talking about for reference)
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Osma-Bloc-Soothes-Shaving-Irritation/dp/B004NEHR28

Is there realy nothing else I can do about it?

http://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28

Cheap, only downside is slippery when wet and break easily if dropped, you're warned.

You can negate a lot of this damage by using an alum block, too.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Osma-Bloc-Soothes-Shaving-Irritation/dp/B004NEHR28

You apply this after shaving - I like to wet my brush and then cover my face with some water and just rub it all over, especially around my neck where I get the most irritation. It's a coagulant for bleeding and also helps take down irritation on your neck afterwards.

I too have sensitive skin and using this eradicated the issue. Best of luck!

As a guy I use an Alum Bloc for shaving, it is used as an antiseptic for after shaving. However it can be applied to acne as well to kill bacteria.

One of these - Osma Bloc - Alum Block 75g (Soothes Shaving Irritation) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B004NEHR28/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_C0h0xb6S33D2B. Lasts a long time, helps seal shaving cuts, hurts like a mother when using it, but is magical!

Side note - Pitrok sell a natural deodorant which is just an alum block. You need to use it whilst still wet from a shower etc, and when it works is amazing. Unfortunately it fails quite regularly, so I now use their spray - a very natural deodorant without various 'harmful' additives, and the best I have ever had!

rub this stuff under your pits after shower. SOURCE: fellow midwest profuse sweater.

also; just a PSA: sweat is a good sign of health and proper hydration. contrary to the old timey thought process of 'never let em' see you sweat' BUT you know. being macho trumps health anyday.

Amazon is your friend if you live in the UK.

• Alum block - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Osma-Bloc-Soothes-Shaving-Irritation/dp/B004NEHR28/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419988493&sr=8-1&keywords=alum+block
  (kind of a must for beginners)
  
  
• Razor - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Edwin-Jagger-DE89L-Detail-Chrome/dp/B005GO38ZY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419988543&sr=8-1&keywords=edwin+jagger
  
• Brush - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Omega-48-Professional-Bristle-Shaving/dp/B001MP4A1M/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1419988606&sr=8-3&keywords=omega+brush
  
• Soap - I'd say arko or prosaro if you don't like the idea of using a stick. Both easy to find on amazon.
  
  One issue I came across when I was first starting out was that I couldn't find a blade sampler pack for the life of me. Just bought packs of 5 of every type of blade I could find and eventually settled on astras.

This is the one I got! I just got the cheapest one I saw on amazon and it works great. You can buy them from zero waste shops online too tho

You can use an alum bar and some water to kill bacteria as well. Doesn’t sting as much as alcohol and it’s easy to pack in.


Bloc Osma Alum Block, 2.65 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004NEHR28/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_xW-JDbDQS21Q1

Walgreens usually has them in the shaving goods section. I prefer the alum blocks though. I ordered mine from Amazon :

http://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28

I had this exact thing until I bought a Bloc D'Alum (Osma Bloc) from Amazon. You wet it, then rub it over your face or neck as a last step, I have not had a single in-grown hair or spot since I started using it, and mine was just like yours ever since I was 16...

EDIT: It's an astringent, which basically shuts all your pores up to stop them getting irritated/infected.

You can, but it'll probably sting a bit more than potassium alum.

Certainly viable, it's up to you if saving 73p/an extra 25g compared to e.g. this is worth it.

I'm sure you'll get a bunch of pms linking you ti Wicked edge, but let me drop my two cents.

Instead of using a stick of antiperspirant, buy yourself a block of Alum. The chemical compound in Alum is the same in antiperspirant that makes you stop sweating. HOWEVER, in Alum the crystalline structure is bigger(it's the whole block), and therefor doesn't lead to any of those cancer causing concerns from the Aluminum chlorohydrate.

Wiki for Alum

http://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28
It's really a bang for your buck.

Isn't that the razor? Here I'll just link you to everything I bought.

Edwin Jagger De89lbl Double Edge Safety Razor Chrome Plated Lined Detail, Chrome

Van Der Hagen Men's Luxury, Shave Set

Bloc Osma Alum Block, 2.65 Ounce


Sampler Pack

In that case, I'm thinking of getting

• This razor,
  
  
• this shave kit,
  
  
• and this blade sampler.
  
  Is that a good starter kit?

Maybe try a blade sampler pack like this.

If you are looking for a sampler and want to stick with Amazon, I would go for this one: http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B004UIZFQW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332467496&sr=8-1

Prep sounds like a contributing factor here. The stubble are going to be stiffer so some extra prep could be in order. Try showering first then straight to shaving or using a Hot towel to prep your face and not just a splash of water. The blade might be an issue as well try a blade sampler