A cut above, or is that below?

So, after reading many articles online and depleting my stores of Mach 3 cartridges, I took the plunge and bought an old-timey safety razor. I got that and some matching old-timey razor blades from Details for Men – a site I found on the net. Many other places that extol the benefits of using a safety razor or “wet shaving” have been sold out of this particular brand and style. Apparently, Merkur in Germany has been selling these things with some success. The razor was 30 bucks, but ten blades were FIVE DOLLARS! I think one mach 3 blade is like 2 bucks or like 35 bucks for 16 at Costco – so there is huge benefit to using these razors right away. First I noticed it was smaller than I thought, but I was soon to find out how effective this razor could be. Articles on wet shaving online and reviews of the razor claim that you WILL cut yourself when you start using the razor. I guess most aren’t used to applying no pressure and really taking your time when you shave. Well, I cut the shit out of my face the first time. I’ve gotten much better and can now escape without a cut! I have read that the entire process is important, so for those of you who care:

Wash/Scrub while in the shower
Don’t dry your face when you get out\
Re-wet your face at the sink and rub in some pre-shave oil
Apply glycerin-based shave cream to your face with a badger hair brush
Shave with the grain
Rinse and repeat across or against the grain for a ridiculously close shave.
Rinse hot and then cold water
Apply aftershave balm – no alcohol
Whew!

Want to check it out?
www.classicshaving.com
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6886845/

I like it better than my old Gillette. It costs less, gets closer, and although it gives me some nicks from time to time, I’m getting better with every shave. So the internet was correct on this one, next up: I’m going to meet the deposed king of Nigeria! All he needs is some good faith money!