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Safety Razors etc

  • 07-02-2020 11:26pm
    #1
    jeffk
    Registered Users Posts: 5,829 ✭✭✭


    After THAT gillette ad and just not wanting to pay silly money I've being trying different razors

    Mostly Aldi/Lidl, even tried razorpit for the gillette I did use before the ad and deals on blade's ran dry

    But see a lot about safety Razors etc coming up and seen videos on YouTube and actually looks OK. From one video sounds like it will help with my sensitive skin that takes little to cut /rash etc

    Is there a go to set or handle and blades to get and see how if works out? Then if need be upgrade in time

    Thanks for any help etc


«1

Comments

  • #2
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭[Deleted User]


    I made the move over 10 years ago.

    I will be honest in that it did take some time in personalizing the shaving process, and there were some cuts, so make sure and get a Styptic stick incase.

    Though, I would never go back and I shave every day with a DE every morning.

    I use Proraso soap and I have the same brush (I know I should change) and I am using a Merkur ( which is my second razor) along with Feathers (1st) or Derby (2nd choice) blades with a splash of Proraso after shave.

    The benefits are cost, and I believe better skin.

    The Proraso range are great.


  • #3
    beardybrewer
    Registered Users Posts: 2,917 ✭✭✭beardybrewer


    Have a read of this thread where there's a discussion and recommendations over at shaving.ie. Keep a lookout for links to vids too.

    https://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2057855008

    If you have any questions let us know.


  • #4
    jeffk
    Registered Users Posts: 5,829 ✭✭✭jeffk


    I asked manly stuff and shaving.ie on Facebook messenger today

    Manly stuff couldn't go enough, shaving.ie seen it and never replied

    As I said to Sean i think I've given up on the idea. All I can see is need brush, Cup, soap, before after cream etc

    I can justify the cost of razor as make it back on blades in time

    But not into the idea of creams soaps brush etc etc


  • #5
    beardybrewer
    Registered Users Posts: 2,917 ✭✭✭beardybrewer


    Well that's my argument in the linked thread is to stick with whatever foam/gel you like. Changing to a new razor, technique, and finding the right blade that works for you is plenty to start with and will get you the majority of the benefit by having a cheap and therefore sharp razor for a smooth shave.
    beardybrewer wrote: »
    always had shave rash for decades and then swapped to DE. i change my blade every 3 shaves. good lather + light touch + sharp blade = no irritation. No need to get a brush and soaps to start out. Just keep the gel you like and swap in the last razor you'll need to buy and a blade sampler pack to find which works best for your face.

    https://www.shaving.ie/products/muhle-r89-classic-razor.html
    https://www.shaving.ie/products/two-of-a-kind-de-blade-sample-pack.htmll
    coupon code: boards.ie

    You can also check out this site which offers some good cheap options like:

    https://connaughtshaving.com/rrment.html
    https://connaughtshaving.com/popular.html


  • #6
    jeffk
    Registered Users Posts: 5,829 ✭✭✭jeffk


    beardybrewer wrote: »
    Well that's my argument in the linked thread is to stick with whatever foam/gel you like. Changing to a new razor, technique, and finding the right blade that works for you is plenty to start with and will get you the majority of the benefit by having a cheap and therefore sharp razor for a smooth shave.



    You can also check out this site which offers some good cheap options like:

    https://connaughtshaving.com/rrment.html
    https://connaughtshaving.com/popular.html

    That's what pulls me back in, the cost of the blade compared to even a lidl aldi etc

    Suggested astra blades today so I'm guessing good for beginners.
    Don't think I'd want to have loads to try and try and decide what's best


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  • #7
    Purgative
    Registered Users Posts: 2,509 ✭✭✭Purgative


    jeffk wrote: »
    That's what pulls me back in, the cost of the blade compared to even a lidl aldi etc

    Suggested astra blades today so I'm guessing good for beginners.
    Don't think I'd want to have loads to try and try and decide what's best


    I use Astra blades I like them - and stopped looking any further.


    I use this soap Taylor of Old Bond St Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl
    This brush Semogue 1305 Shaving Brush
    This razor Chrome Razor and Brush Stand


    Job done. Never going back to disposables or cartridges. Better shave. Clearer skin. The soap will last about 4 or so months. A pack of blades (100) about a year.


  • #8
    Daz_
    Registered Users Posts: 930 ✭✭✭Daz_


    I made the switch to Safety razor about a year go and it was the best decision ever.

    I used to get red bumps on my neck which was caused by ingrown hairs . This was caused by years of crappy razors .now my skin is perfect .

    I would recommend getting a good quality shaving cream . I use Taylor’s and it’s a very nice product to use . I see one poster mention Porazo earlier which is fine but when you use the likes of Taylor’s you will see the difference in quality .
    My other main tip is get a good quality brush . Don’t get the 10e brush you see in the shops , it’s hard and just pushes the shaving lather around rather than into your beard . Research it and buy the best you can afford . It was last a lifetime.

    Also get a good quality preshave . Again the Taylor’s one is what I use . Tried the porazo one and the smell is very harsh . Taylor’s nice discreet smell .

    It will take a bit of practice but you will find your grove after a while , expect a few nicks at the start !

    I would totally recommend going for it . Your shaves will be better AND save money on blades !


  • #9
    Daz_
    Registered Users Posts: 930 ✭✭✭Daz_


    jeffk wrote: »
    I asked manly stuff and shaving.ie on Facebook messenger today

    Manly stuff couldn't go enough, shaving.ie seen it and never replied

    As I said to Sean i think I've given up on the idea. All I can see is need brush, Cup, soap, before after cream etc

    I can justify the cost of razor as make it back on blades in time

    But not into the idea of creams soaps brush etc etc

    Depends on your motivation . But all I can say is that there is a huge difference in the quality of the shave .
    If you want smoother shaves, better skin and no in growing hairs then safety razor is the way to go.
    If you are happy enough then no need to switch


  • #10
    Purgative
    Registered Users Posts: 2,509 ✭✭✭Purgative


    jeffk wrote: »

    Suggested astra blades today so I'm guessing good for beginners.


    I think the Astra blades are quite forgiving. I did try a sample pack a while back (years) and I ended up looking like I'd slaughtered a pig. Astra do the job and that's grand so.


    All the stuff I listed is good enough for me, and certainly better than cartridges.


  • #11
    jeffk
    Registered Users Posts: 5,829 ✭✭✭jeffk


    Thanks for everyone who took the time and effort to give information

    Looking likely I'll end up trying it after all, thanks to posts I can get a razor (with long handle as have shovel hands) and 10 blades for around 23

    I'd say 10 gillette etc blades alone cost much more than that, plus if goes to plan can then buy in bulk increasing savings


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  • #12
    nc6000
    Registered Users Posts: 3,220 ✭✭✭nc6000


    I see Tesco have started to stock this Wilkinson Sword safety razor :

    https://www.tesco.ie/groceries/product/details/?id=301831685


  • #13
    jeffk
    Registered Users Posts: 5,829 ✭✭✭jeffk


    nc6000 wrote: »
    I see Tesco have started to stock this Wilkinson Sword safety razor :

    https://www.tesco.ie/groceries/product/details/?id=301831685

    A day too late for me lol

    I wonder if they will sell the blades separate and are they even any good :confused:


  • #14
    whippet
    Registered Users Posts: 7,668 ✭✭✭whippet


    I got a gift of a Muhle razor and brush two years ago and it was probably one of the best gifts i've ever gotten. Have saved a fortune on disposable razors or poxy gillette blades.

    Good soap is a must .. but it lasts for a long time. I got an 'Art of Shaving' Sandlewood soap last year in New York for about 30 dollars and it is still going strong and feels great !


  • #15
    jeffk
    Registered Users Posts: 5,829 ✭✭✭jeffk


    nc6000 wrote: »
    I see Tesco have started to stock this Wilkinson Sword safety razor :

    https://www.tesco.ie/groceries/product/details/?id=301831685

    A day too late for me lol

    I wonder if they will sell the blades separate and are they even any good :confused:


  • #16
    Bullocks
    Registered Users Posts: 5,890 ✭✭✭Bullocks


    jeffk wrote: »
    A day too late for me lol

    I wonder if they will sell the blades separate and are they even any good :confused:

    Some chemists have the packs of blades. I don't know where you are but Matt ó Flahertys in Galway sell them. They are only €2/€3 for 10


  • #17
    jeffk
    Registered Users Posts: 5,829 ✭✭✭jeffk


    Bullocks wrote: »
    Some chemists have the packs of blades. I don't know where you are but Matt ó Flahertys in Galway sell them. They are only €2/€3 for 10

    In Dublin

    Must keep an eye out in chemist's, save on postage


  • #18
    beardybrewer
    Registered Users Posts: 2,917 ✭✭✭beardybrewer


    You get mixed results in Boots, Tesco, and some pharmacies for carrying safety blades. Some people find WS quite good.

    You said you didn't want to arse with different blades above. The reason I suggested a sample pack is because different blades fit the angles of various razor heads different (hold at different angle, aggressiveness, etc). Also your technique, beard coarseness, etc might make one blade feel more comfortable than another.

    You mentioned Astra which for me were a great beginner blade for the 89 (I found the included derby blades to be rubbish). I went from astras to 7 o'clocks, to polsilvers, then feather which are very sharp. Then I discovered russian voskhods which were a bit less aggressive than feathers. But then I changed razors and everything I knew went out the window and I quickly found personna blue worked best with my vintage razor.

    So if you are getting one too many nicks or feel your shave could be better you might reconsider trying a few brands before buying in bulk.


  • #19
    timetogo1
    Registered Users Posts: 844 ✭✭✭timetogo1


    jeffk wrote: »
    In Dublin

    Must keep an eye out in chemist's, save on postage

    You can get them on amazon too. I got 100 blades for about a tenner a couple of years ago. I'm only half way through the pack.


  • #20
    Glebee
    Registered Users Posts: 6,580 ✭✭✭Glebee


    If you want soap that will last you ages, get some Mitchels wool fat soap. Youll have it for at least 12 months or longer..


  • #21
    jeffk
    Registered Users Posts: 5,829 ✭✭✭jeffk


    Just in fairness to say shaving. Ie did reply today


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  • #22
    jeffk
    Registered Users Posts: 5,829 ✭✭✭jeffk


    Package arrived sometime today (post man decided to leave in porch without ringing the bell)

    Very surprised with first shave, nervous but didn't cut myself THAT bad, one or two big ones under bottom lip and then loads of little ones. Not soar and blood pouring out, so hopefully with practice wont happen

    Used the astra blade, there was as hard plastic box of 10 made in Israel in the package and a box of 10 Derby extra in the handle box

    Thanks again for the help


  • #23
    beardybrewer
    Registered Users Posts: 2,917 ✭✭✭beardybrewer


    No harm watching a few vids for tips rather than us type them. Check out the series from the master himself. These crusty videos have probably taught thousands to shave:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufG1dPmVo8Q&feature=youtu.be&t=293

    An alum block can be very useful when learning your technique. A great feedback tool, the sting lets you know where you need to improve (watch your angles, no pressure!) while also stopping bleeding and acting as an antiseptic. Leave it on for 30 seconds or so and then rinse off. Then try a soothing shave balm.

    https://www.shaving.ie/products/omega-alum-tube-stick.html

    Feel free to ask more questions.


  • #24
    Azatadine
    Registered Users Posts: 3,196 ✭✭✭Azatadine


    Yeah, my first few shaves were pretty underwhelming in hindsight. Patchy enough.

    Watching videos and plenty of practice paid dividends quickly. You can do practice leathers without shaving as well. The lather is key and takes practice.


  • #25
    Azatadine
    Registered Users Posts: 3,196 ✭✭✭Azatadine


    Yeah, my first few shaves were pretty underwhelming in hindsight. Patchy enough.

    Watching videos and plenty of practice paid dividends quickly. You can do practice leathers without shaving as well. The lather is key and takes practice.


  • #26
    whitelightrider
    Registered Users Posts: 3,099 ✭✭✭whitelightrider


    Hey folks,


    Literally just found this thread. Im about to make the jump into the Safety Razor world as Im tired of paying out for the regular blades.

    Ill be looking through the recommendations here for a good setup for Sensitive skin.



  • #27
    whitelightrider
    Registered Users Posts: 3,099 ✭✭✭whitelightrider


    Hey guys,


    Thoughts on this set? https://www.shaving.ie/products/the-basic-essentials-sensitive-safety-razor-starter-kit-v2.html

    Ive really sensitive skin with a bit of rosacea so need something that my skin can handle.



  • #28
    Rosahane
    Registered Users Posts: 1,385 ✭✭✭Rosahane


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/117676748#Comment_117676748

    I’d go for a different brush. That’s a huge stiff brush. Get the boar Semogue instead or a Badger brush.. Otherwise fine kit. I’d recommend the Polsilver Iridium blades long term but they appear to be out of stock at the moment.



  • #29
    Azatadine
    Registered Users Posts: 3,196 ✭✭✭Azatadine


    That's an awful brush. I have it in my own collection but it took ages to break in and the smell took a long time to dissipate. Hard to beat badger, especially if you require softness.



  • #30
    granturismo
    Registered Users Posts: 1,890 ✭✭✭granturismo


    I bought the Henson AL13 mild and its by far the mildest razor I have used. There's plenty of youtube videos on this razor. I've had no irritation or cuts with Astra or Derby blades.

    https://hensonshaving.com/products/aluminum-al13-1?variant=32799794528336

    Its hard to get, with only one EU agent who doesnt ship to Ireland, unless you know someone in a country they do ship to;

    https://www.scheersalon.nl/scheren/scheermes/safety-razor?manufacturer=51de69aa554a462bba390e2fadb72e8d&order=price-asc&p=1



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  • #31
    adox
    Registered Users Posts: 19,015 ✭✭✭✭adox


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/117677458#Comment_117677458

    Sorry for bumping this thread but Amazon now sell these razors.


    I’ve recently taken back up DE shaving after not having great experience with it a few years back and giving up too early.


    Some real bargains out there, I’ve bought another brush, two more razors(including a Henson medium) and lots of shaving creams.


    Im finding face lathering the best solution for me. I’m still trying to settle on blades. The Astras that come with the Henson are surprisingly sharp while the Gillette King C blades with the King C razor are very forgiving although very mild also.


    the Henson razor does have the advantage of having a naturally correct angle due to the design of the head. The one minus is it’s weight and length. It’s very light and very long for a DE razor so it can feel like a cartridge razor in the hand and you subconsciously use it like one instead of the discipline of a DE razor.



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