Double Edge Safety Razor Shaving Introduction

Double Edge Safety Razor Shaving
Dr. John A. Allocca
www.allocca.com
10/13/13
Introduction
Today’s marketing campaigns try to convince people that multi-blade razors are the best
razors to use. The cost per cartridge ranges from about $2 to $5. The shaving methods below
use double edge razors and razor blades that cost about ten cents to sixty cents per blade.
The shave from the double edge razor blade is as close as the multi-blade razor. There are two
basic aspects to shaving. The first is to raise the hair above the skin, which is accomplished with
heat and shaving cream. The second is to provide lubrication for the razor, which is
accomplished by shaving cream. This article emphasizes hypo-allergenic products and
minimal skin irritation.
Razors
According to the literature, a heavy razor is recommended so that the weight of the razor will
do the work. However, for many, it is the opposite. A lighter weight razor can exert less pressure.
There are several factors that affect a razor’s aggressiveness: the size of the blade gap, the
amount of blade that is exposed, the cutting angle, which depends upon the razor design,
and the weight of the razor. Increasing the angle of the razor can cause nicks and skin irritation.
If a person shaves daily, a mild razor and a shallow angle should be adequate. Two razors are
recommended. The Edwin Jagger Barely Chrome razor model DE89BA11, $46 from Lee’s, is
medium in aggressiveness and medium in weight (76 grams, 2.6 oz.). The Feather Popular
razor, $22 with a case from Lee’s, is mildly aggressive and light in weight (34 grams, 1.1 oz.).
Start with the Feather razor and Derby blades.
Razor Blades
The type of blade needed depends upon the thickness of the beard, the skin sensitivity, the
shaving style, and frequency of shaving. Many people use a shaving style that is fast and
aggressive lasting no longer five minutes. Nicks occur easily with sharp blades and an
aggressive shaving style. The Derby blades are the least sharp and may be more suitable to an
aggressive shaving style. Purchase a sample pack of razor blades. Start with least sharp Derby
blades. Razor blade sharpnesses are (the higher the number, the sharper the blade) according
to www.shaving101.com: Feather 5, Bic 4, Kai 4, Wilkinson Sword 3.5, Crystal 3.5, Red Persona
3, Shark 2.5, Merkur 2, and Derby 1. Double edge razor blades are inexpensive, ranging from
about 10 cents to 80 cents each. The Derby blades are the least expensive blades. The
Feather blades are the most expensive blades.
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Shaving Brush
Using a shaving brush may not provide a better shave. The major reason for using a brush is for
it to act as an exfoliator. When brushing the lather across or in circular motions on the face, the
bristles remove dead skin flakes or anything else that is present on the skin. However, removing
skin can also cause skin irritation. It is not recommended by this author.
Shaving Cream
Shaving cream helps to soften the hair and provide lubrication for the razor. If the shaving
cream drys before the end of shaving, lubrication will be lost, resulting in nicks and razor burn.
Unscented shaving creams are recommended for those with sensitive skin. The shaving cream
recommended is the Alba Botanica Very Emollient Cream Shave, Unscented, hypo-allergenic,
or any of Alba’s other hypo-allergenic shave creams. The Alba shave cream is actually a gel
that doesn’t lather. It doesn’t dissolve in water without soap, which provides constant lubrication
across the face. Some people complain that it gets caught in their razor. A double edge razor
can be opened and cleaned easily. The Alba cream cannot be used with a shaving brush.
After Shave Balm
A razor will scrape some of the skin from the face. An after shave balm will help to heal the
damaged skin and moisturize the face. First, apply Witch Hazel immediately after cold water is
applied to the face. Apply a small amount of Alba Botanical Even Advanced Sea Moss
Moisturizer spf 15, hypo-allergenic aftershave balm after showering.
Methodology
Heat makes the hair stand up. It is said that the best shave can be obtained by shaving after a
shower or in the shower. Many people prefer to shave before a shower. A hot wet wash cloth is
second best. Read all of the instructions below before shaving.
1. Apply hot water to a wash cloth. Then apply to the face for 1-3 minutes.
2. Apply the Alba shaving cream generously to the face. If the tube is cold, let it soak in hot
water for 15 minutes before using.
3. Wash your hands with soap and water.
4. Use one hand to shave with. Use the other hand to pull the skin tight.
5. Begin by holding the razor at a 90 degree angle to the face, whereby the handle is parallel
to the face. Stroke downward with the razor. The razor should not cut hair at this angle.
Increase the angle by 5 degrees and try again. Continue this process until the razor begins
to cut hair. This will be the angle that should always be used. For the razors recommended,
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the angle should be about 30 degrees. Increasing this angle will make the razor more
aggressive, which can result is nicks and skin irritation.
6. Shave with SLOW, SHORT, GENTILE, strokes being very careful not to increase the
angle of the razor.
7. First, shave under the neck with the grain. Then, under the neck against the grain or across
the grain. Next, repeat the procedure for the left face, the right face, below the lip and the
front of the chin, and finally under the nose. If an area becomes dry, reapply shaving cream
or wet the area, which shouldn’t be required with the Alba shaving cream. The area under
the nose is the most difficult to shave against the grain. One may want to settle for across
the grain under the nose. Be sure to push out these areas with the tongue. Rinse the razor
with hot water after shaving each area.
8. Wash the face with cold water.
9. Apply Witch Hazel to the face, which is used to heal minor cuts and skin irritation.
10. Open and dry the razor before storing it.
11. Apply aftershave balm to moisturize the face after showering.
Resources
For further advice and products, call Lee at Lee’s Razors (800) 503-5001 or see
www.leesrazors.com
Alba Botanical products are often found in heath food stores.
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