How to Shave with a Double-Edge Razor

Here you'll learn about how to get a close shave using a double-edge safety razor.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Safety Razor
• Double-Edge Razor Blades
• Hot Water
• Shaving Gel
• 15 Minutes

Getting the Best Shave of Your Life

1. Fill the sink with hot water. The water softens the hairs of your beard and allows the razor to cut more easily. If possible, shave immediately after showering.

2. Insert a single blade into the razor. Don't cut yourself, since there's no safety wire on these blades like the kind on cartridge blades.

3. Apply the gel to your face. Do not use an old-fashioned shaving cream to match the old-fashioned razor; cream lubricates poorly and dries out your skin. A small amount of high-quality shaving gel provides a smooth surface for the razor to glide upon and will help prevent cuts.

4. Starting with your sideburns, shave with short strokes in the direction of the grain of your hair growth. Double-edged razors should not be used in long strokes, a higher number of short strokes ensures you don't go over each area of your face more than once.

5. Continue downwards, shaving your cheeks and then your neck. Leave the area around your mouth for last. Allow the hot water to soften those hairs as much as possible.

6. Finish your shave by gently working your way around your chin and mustache area. When you're finished with your whole face, you can go over the shaved areas again against the grain if you wish.

7. Rinse out your razor and wash off your face. You've finished your first shave with a double-edge razor, and your skill will only improve with time.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a heavy beard, trim it using a beard trimmer before you try shaving with a double-edge razor. If you try to shave without cleaning your face first, you will suffer razor burns and ingrown hairs.
• Remember, double-edge razors have two sides to them. Use both. Your new razor will last twice as long as your old, expensive cartridges ever did.
• Shaving with a double-edge razor takes longer than using a cartridge razor. Instead of pulling at hairs with dull blades covered in wire, you cleanly cut the hairs in a single stroke. Be patient, and you'll be happy with the results!
• Never push the blade against your skin. There is no safety wire like on a cartridge razor, and if you push the blade against your skin you will cut yourself. Immediately deal with any cuts with a styptic pencil.