Using a Straight Razor
Having followed the guide to skin preparation and you brand new straight razor has been honed and stropped you are ready to begin shaving.
Step one: Open the razor by gently gripping the shaft with thumb and three fingers. Ensure the open handle points away from the face. Place your small finger in the crook of the blade. This enables a secure and stable grip and also provides maximum control of the blade whilst shaving.
Step two: Wherever you start to shave it is important to hold the skin taut with your free hand to provide a flattened surface. This enables the blade to glide smoothly and freely for a closer shave.
The angle of the blade will vary from person to person. We recommend a slight angle of 30 degrees to start until you find your ideal way to shave with comfort and ease. This comes with practise and experience.
Step three: The strokes of the blade should be in the direction of the grain of the beard, deliberate and approximately 1-2 inches. Movement of the blade throughout the stroke should be from point to heel of the blade to achieve the best result.
A good tip is to always begin a little way away from the prominent parts of the face such as the chin. Simply work over to these areas with steady strokes.
Step four: to get the smoothest shave possible it is often necessary to go over the face a second time. This time lathering takes a shorter time and the strokes of the blade should be against the grain of the beard.
Step five: Once the shave is complete, simply rinse your face with cold water. Post shave is purely down to personal preference. We recommend a moisturising balm or skin food to cool, soothe and moisturise the skin.
Step six: Remember to rinse the razor thoroughly with hot water and carefully wipe dry before storage.
In the event of any minor nicks occurring simply apply a moistened alum block or styptic pencil to the nick to stop the bleed.
