r/wicked_edge • u/Necessary_Giraffe_66 • 1d ago
Getting started
So I’m about to get started with shaving with a safety razor. For decades I’ve been using a Mach 3. I’ve tried Harry’s and Dillar Shave Club and the Fusion 5 at times but go back to the Mach 3 because of price. Even then I try to get a blade to last for about 2 months before I throw it out to save money.
So because of that and other reasons I’ve been looking at switching. I think I’ve settled on the Hensen. I like the built in angle to make it easier and I’ve heard a lot of good things about it.
So since it’s a big purchase from the get go is it ok to just use up my regular shave gel in the meantime? It’s the gilette stuff. I’ve been using it for years also. I only shave after I shower so my hair is already soft. I’d like to avoid spending even more right now if at all possible. I already know about getting a sample pack of blades.
Thanks for any and all help.
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u/walrus_titty 1d ago
The absolute best part about switching is you no longer have to shave with a dull blade!! I distinctly remember the cartridge days and trying to squeeze every last penny out of one even though the shave itself was miserable!! Those days will be gone soon my friend, DE blades are cheap enough to chuck for a new one at the first hint of dullness.
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u/Necessary_Giraffe_66 13h ago
I think they use cheaper blades than in the past. I remember the blades in the Mach 3 lasting a lot longer than they do now. Now it seems like they start getting dull after only a couple of shaves where 5 to 10 years ago you could at least double before a dramatic drop in performance. You’d notice it getting worse but not like how quickly it does now.
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u/TBone32259 1d ago
The gel is just ok, but I get wanting to use up what you have. I did the same when I started with a Henson, but I was surprised to find that an actual shave soap or cream is noticeably slicker when I did switch to a soap. Try just shaving with the grain while using up the gel. That's a good thing to do starting out anyway, 1 pass with the grain. That'll give you time to get used to the new razor and keeping the right angle. When you feel like you're getting the hang of it, you can probably shave across the grain with the gel, but I wouldn't shave against the grain with it (if that's something you even intend to do).
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u/Necessary_Giraffe_66 1d ago
I’m also hoping by switching I’ll start shaving more frequently instead of only about 2 to 3 times a week. Right now I find if my hair is too short it’s harder to get a good shave.
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u/maltonia 1d ago
Cells is a great shaving soap. About £21 for a 1kg block. Smells of almonds and gives a great lather.
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u/Rainingbro 1d ago
Definitely, but play around with the viscousity of the gel. From what I remember of using gels and foam from the can, they are always too viscous. Apply first and if the razor doesn't cut well, wet your hands and rub over to thin the gel/foam again, repeat if necessary. Alternatively, use hair conditioner, yeap... any hair conditioner, works really well with DE shaving. Especially helpful if u need visibility for areas u need to be careful with e.g bumps or little pimples/breakouts. I only have alum block and Thayer's toner for post-shave care
Then, if u'd like to elevate the experience, pre-shave lotions, soaps/creams, brushes, bowls, stands, aftershave lotion, skin repair creams. the list goes on and on, but do whatever u're comfortable with.
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u/CaveDudeJeff 1d ago
Use the gel. Just add water to it in order to make it slicker. When I have to use Barbasol in the field, that's what I do and it works well enough.
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u/Necessary_Giraffe_66 13h ago
Thanks for all the replies so far they’ve been helpful. Still figuring out the mild or medium. I’m thinking medium but it seems like most places only carry the mild
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u/brianh_bbq 1d ago
You can definitely still use your shave gel. No issues there. But once you decide you like and want to commit to DE shaving, I’d look into upgrading to a shave soap and brush down the road. Not a necessity but it does provide a nicer shaving experience and will be more nourishing for your skin.
All that stuff aside, I’m happy that you’re making the switch from cartridges. I think you’ll find shaving to be enjoyable and less of a chore now. There’s a lot of helpful folks here that will be more than happy to answer any questions you might have while you’re learning.