1. Prepare Your Face:
Begin by thoroughly cleansing your face with warm water to remove any dirt or oil. This helps to soften the facial hair and open up the pores. Consider using a pre-shave oil to further moisturize and protect the skin.
2. Load the Blade:
Carefully insert a fresh double edge blade into your safety razor. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper blade alignment and secure it in place.
3. Shave with the Grain:
Hold the razor at a 30-degree angle against your skin and start shaving with the grain of your facial hair growth. Use short, gentle strokes, allowing the weight of the razor to do most of the work. Maintain a light touch to avoid applying excessive pressure on the skin.
4. Rinse the Razor:
After a few strokes, rinse the razor under running water to remove any hair and shaving cream residue. This ensures a clean blade for the next pass and prevents clogging.
5. Adjust the Angle for Additional Passes:
For a closer shave, you can make additional passes across or against the grain. Adjust the angle of the razor accordingly, but be cautious and maintain a gentle touch to avoid irritation or cuts.
6. Rinse and Cleanse:
After shaving, rinse your face thoroughly with cold water to close the pores. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel and apply a soothing aftershave balm or lotion to hydrate and calm the skin.
Lets Talk about
the three types of passes commonly used with a safety razor:
-
The With-the-Grain (WTG) Pass: The first pass, known as the with-the-grain (WTG) pass, involves shaving in the same direction as your facial hair growth. This pass helps to remove the majority of the hair while minimizing the risk of irritation or ingrown hairs. Start at the top of your face and shave downward on the cheeks and sideburns, and with long downward strokes on the neck.
-
The Across-the-Grain (XTG) Pass: After completing the WTG pass, you can proceed to the across-the-grain (XTG) pass. This involves shaving perpendicular to the direction of hair growth, usually from ear to nose or nose to ear. The XTG pass provides a closer shave by cutting the remaining stubble that the WTG pass may have missed. Take caution and use light pressure to avoid irritation.
-
The Against-the-Grain (ATG) Pass: The final pass, the against-the-grain (ATG) pass, involves shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth. This pass delivers the closest shave but can be more challenging and potentially irritating if not done properly. Use short, light strokes and adjust the angle of the razor accordingly to minimize the risk of irritation or cuts. Some individuals may choose to skip the ATG pass if they are prone to sensitivity or have particularly coarse hair.
Remember, the number of passes may vary depending on personal preference and the sensitivity of your skin. Some individuals may find that a single pass provides satisfactory results, while others may prefer to perform additional passes for an even closer shave. Take your time, maintain a steady hand, and listen to your skin's needs to achieve a comfortable and satisfying shave with a safety razor.
Mastering the double edge safety razor technique takes time and practice. Be patient, pay attention to your technique, and enjoy the journey towards achieving flawless shaves with this classic shaving tool. You can see our selection of Double Edge Safety Razors here!