Saturday 9th February 2019 PM
Pre-shave:- Cold water rinse / Nivea Sensitive Face Wash / Proraso Red pre shave cream
Brush:- Executive Shaving Company Medium Jock Synthetic
Soap/Cream:- Wickam's Buddha Wood soap
Razor/Blade:- RazoRock Hawk V2 / Schick Proline (3)
Post-shave:- Thayers Cucumber / Xtro Mare aftershave / Bart's Balm Grapefruit and Pink Pepper balm
I had a not so great shave 2 nights ago, so poor that I didn't post about it. I couldn't figure out what I had actually done wrong but my skin was really tight with me repeatedly needing to add post shave creams throughout the evening and yesterday. These gave me some relief but around my mouth felt like I was about to burst out in cold sores. Really red, dry and sensitive to touch. Today things seemed to be on the mend and I really needed/wanted to shave, mainly to freshen myself up, but also to restore some of my confidence.
I went to the extent of rewatching some Mantic59 videos to see if I had started some bad habits.
If I'm being totally honest, I had. Rushing and starting to apply pressure on the blade, chasing too much hair reduction during my first passes.
This evening I slowed things right down. I've started missing out washing my face during my prep, something I brought back in tonight. Also preparing my lather too quickly - too rushed and slapping it on too quickly, rushing to get the razor working. Moving the razor too quickly in too short strokes, repeatedly going over the same area, chasing BBS.
This evenings shave is where I have been in the past and where I want to remain - chilled out, taking my time, enjoying the shave and reaping the rewards at the end - BBS with no irritation, no weepers. Totally enjoyable.
All the products I've listed above worked flawlessly. I got a hopping from foot to foot burn when I slapped on the Xtro but it calmed quickly - I do think my skin isn't 100% recovered from the other night and this played a part in fanning the flames!
However, my confidence is returning and I'm slapping myself across the face with a wet fish for letting myself my standards drop.
I just want to say thanks for all the advice and help I've had so far!
I'm sitting here rubbing my face thinking how good wet shaving is - SE and DE!
Here's to many more shaves like this folks! Have a great night!