Ask Aaron Q/A: Switching from a cartridge razor to a safety razor
Aaron answers a question about switching from a cartridge razor to a double edge razor
Shaun Lancaster, from UK, asks:
“Hi Aaron! Its about time I switched from a cartridge razor, and started shaving properly, and stopped throwing away cash! What would you recommend for a ‘newbie’ with a steady hand? Maybe something solid, but not breaking the bank? I do have some minimal scar tissue under my chin, so I’m slightly wary of catching it with a DE razor. Is there a starter pack c/w shave stick or some soap you would recommend? Many thanks. Shaun.”
AARON SAYS
“Hello Shaun!
We’re very happy to hear you want to join the ranks of wet-shavers around the globe! There are many great products out there to choose from, but for a beginners set I do have a couple of recommendations. The first is the Bluebeard’s Revenge cream & Doubloon brush set. This set gives you a great starter brush and cream to shave with, and allows you to choose your razor. If you’d rather get the whole kit in one shot and not worry about choosing a razor, I would recommend the Bluebeard’s Revenge Gift set, which include their Scimitar razor. This would provide all the basics you need to get you started on your journey. Whatever you decide, enjoy and welcome to smooth shaving!
Cheers,
Aaron”
Do you have any burning questions you would like ask our wet shaving expert Aaron Wolfenbarger?
CLICK HERE TO ASK AARON YOUR QUESTION
Ask Aaron Q/A: Top tips for avoiding nicks & cuts whilst double edge shaving
Richard Mitchell, from the USA, asks:
“Hi, Have been using a straight razor which I got from Turkey - was concerned about safety although I did not cut myself at all and had a really good close shave. I bought a Parker DE razor and have done nothing but cut and nick myself. I even changed the shave soap thinking it was that, could the razor be faulty or what am I doing wrong? Thanks Richard”
AARON SAYS
“Mr. Mitchell, I am sorry you’re having such trouble. The two main things that come to mind are these: the angle and the blade. The blade angle for a double edge razor is quite different from a straight razor and should be at about 30 degrees or so. The next would be that you are using a blade that is not suitable for either your skin or hair type. I would purchase a few different types or brands of blades, or buy a sample pack and see how that changes the shave for you as well. It is a powerful as turning on a light switch in a dark room when finding that right combination!
Happy shaving!
Aaron”
Do you have any burning questions you would like ask our wet shaving expert Aaron Wolfenbarger? CLICK HERE TO ASK AARON YOUR QUESTION
The MAD March Sale at The Shaving Shack
It’s the shaving sale of the century - a massive array of razors, shaving creams and shaving brushes with up to 60% off - act fast and stock up on your favourites!
Parker 98R Heavy Duty Premium Barberpole
Fancy treating yourself to a stylish double edge safety razor? Well look no further than the Parker 98R Heavy Duty Premium Barberpole - Parker’s answer to the awesome Merkur 38C!
We believe Parker have surpassed themselves with this beautiful razor. Taking styling cues from the exceptionally popular Merkur 38C, this chrome plated razor provides excellent grip, balance and performance.
The head is taken from their top of the range 3 piece razors which are near identical to the heads of the Merkur 34C/Merkur 38C and likewise, the barberpole handle design is very similar to the Merkur 38C.
Mike Sandoval, from Shaving101.com, is also a big fan of this razor, describing it as “a good value razor for the budget conscious wet shaver”.
WAS £29.00, NOW JUST £15.99 - SAVE 46%
Parker Model 52 Metal Safety Razor with Chrome Finish
If you fancy something a little cheaper then why not opt for the Parker Model 52 Metal Safety Razor with Chrome Finish. This razor offers a screw down blade change and a substantial feel.
WAS £25.99, NOW JUST £9.99 - SAVE 61%
Simpsons Duke Best Badger Brush (D3)
This is a very impressive and popular shaving brush, handmade in England and densely filled with best badger hair.
Dimensions: Bristle Diameter: 45 mm, Bristle Length: 45 mm, Overall Length: 95 mm, Handle Diameter: 35 mm
This really is the height of shaving brush quality. Buy yourself a piece of English luxury today!
WAS £71.49, NOW JUST £50.00 - SAVE 30%
Simpsons Polo 8 Best Badger Brush (PL8)
The Polo is another great brush from the experts at Simpsons. The handle has a great size and shape to it with a ridge that provides excellent grip. Handmade in England it is densely filled with best badger hair.
WAS 84.99, NOW JUST £59.99 - SAVE 29%
These are just a few of the very special deals we have in the March sale. You can check them all out by clicking here. But hurry as the sale ends March 31.
Looking for an inexpensive double edge razor?
If you are a guy who is after a close and comfortable shave but has had enough of the more expensive cartridge razors then look no further than the remarkable double edge razor. And when you do need to replace the blades you will find that quality double edge blades are available at just a fraction of the cost.
A double edge safety razor is able to provide a shave that is much closer and smoother than with cartridge razors too. This is because the two blades are able to cut the hairs at various angles and you will find that performance is improved somewhat.
So what double edge razors should I consider buying?
When you have decided you would like to try a double edge razor to see if it is the right shaving tool for you, the next stage can sometimes be a little daunting, especially with all the products on the market.
Merkur 510 Chrome 'Progress' Safety Razor (Long Handle)
There are many top quality double edge razors you can now get online, and at prices you can afford. These include safety razor models from major shaving brands like Merkur and Parker. We will consider a few of the most popular razors below:
Parker double edge safety razors – The fact that you can now get a three piece safety razor with a nickel plated finish for under £20 just goes to show that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a really close shave. Why not go for an 89R model or the 91R?
Merkur double edge safety razors – Again, for under £20, you will be able to get a quality razor in the 33C Classic which is chrome plated and a great beginner model for those starting out in improving their technique. For a few pounds more you could also consider the 23C Long Handled Classic which is perfect for those with larger hands.
Whichever model you eventually go for, you can be safe in the knowledge that these razors offer a great level of performance and due to the big savings they offer, will certainly pay for themselves.
Why would I want to change my shaving habits?
Due to the increasing popularity of double-edged razor shaving, many people who know little about this product are now curious as to why this is proving to be so “in demand”. The question this poses to these guys is: why would I want to change my shaving habits?
It is easy to get set in your ways when shaving or undertaking any other regular task. If you have been using an electric razor or Mach 3 blade for what seems like forever, you would be entitled to wonder why you should make a change now. In a previous article we looked at the cost factor which, while very important, is not the only reason to make the switch.
A Merkur is to razors as a Ferrari is to cars! (But without the cost)
For starters, double-edged shaving can be a luxurious process. Affordable it certainly is, but the sheer pleasure you get from your daily routine is unsurpassed, especially when you consider the chore it is to shave at present.
A number of men have simply had enough of the expensive multi-bladed systems and have decided to make the bold change themselves. Word of mouth certainly plays a part as guys tend to discuss these things when they are on holiday together or have just discovered something new and interesting.
You may be used to wet shaving already (Mach 3 users) or have a tried and trusted electric razor and so need an incentive other than money to alter your morning routine. Well, as you start to take the time to perfect your technique with a double-edged blade, you start to understand what all the fuss is about. You not only get a closer, smoother shave, but also start to enjoy the experience.
The double-edged razor is becoming extremely popular again as the modern man starts to consider the way the older generation used to shave. Once people get hooked, these retro shaving products allow them to experiment with all the creams, soaps and brushes etc. which are also available. The accessories just serve to make this daily task even more pleasurable.
Double edge shaving offers 5-star luxury without having to leave the bathroom!!
Although double edge shaving is synonymous with luxury, amazingly it is inexpensive to get started. Once the initial kit has been acquired not only will you experience a better way of shaving, but you will save money too! With blades costing pennies and luxury creams that last months there is no reason not to indulge in this affordable luxury.
So, why not give it a try, break your old habits and brave this new world of traditional and luxurious shaving products; you never know, in time, you may even come to look forward to it!
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