Long time lurker first time poster. I’m fairly new to wet shaving but after only a few months in I can say that I’m not looking back to carts! I quickly found out that what was originally a dreaded morning chore is now an enjoyable moment I look forward to every day. First week was rough though. I shave every day for work and I found out the hard way that I had to go easy on the pressure! Although my face was on fire I was pleased with the result. I’m sticking to EJ DE89 for now to work on my technique while exploring soaps and AS that suit me. I have been using Feather blades from day one. I should probably invest in a good brush at some point too. TSD is the perfect place to learn and get tips on new or vintage products from passionate contributors and I’m really happy to be here! Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Welcome @EDC from here in western NY. Glad you decided to join us at TSD. I see you're using Nivea; be sure to try their Deep aftershave ... very mild and soothing. As for shaving soap make sure to try Stirling Soap Co. as well TOBS.
An EJ with a feather is a great place to start( and stay if you want). Check out Maseto shave brushes. You can get brush quality equal to $150+ for around $50.
Welcome to TSD @EDC! Glad you delurked and signed up. Now we can talk about it! I see some good equipment in your stash. You've been doing your research! That R89 loaded with Feather blades is a nice paring. I read many posts before I chose Proraso Red for my sandalwood AS, but that was after I already liked the soap so it was an easy choice. I see you have a stainless steel bowl. Is it double walled to insulate your lather and hold temp? Switching from warm/hot to tap water cool seemed to ease some of my irritation early on so I've stuck with it. I now reside on the Gulf Coast, but growing up in the 'Burbs of Chicago I know what kind of winters you deal with. I know a conversation that just might help you... There's a gathering of coaches and cheerleaders that enjoy sharing hints, tips, and techniques to get the very best shaves from the gear you have right there. If you are up for a fast paced conversation that's all about shaving, with lots of other stuff tossed in, visit The 30 Day Rule / Focus Group! (<- That's a link to the 1st post for this month, after reading it, zoom back to page 100 or where ever we are real time ) Besides shaving, there's ongoing discussions about BBQ, Family vacation photos, Ford vs. Chevy vs. Dodge vs. Fiat trucks, lots of Acquisition Disorder discussion and a fair amount of Enabling, might even be Shenanigans.