I think I want to try method shaving

[Jack Bauer]

I think I have caught the method shaving bug. I am looking for a shaving technique suitable for someone who suffers from acne problems and this looks like a great way to go. I also like the fact that it uses all natural ingrediants. I am only waiting on Mantic's videos to come out so that I can get the gist of how this all goes. I have spent some time reading through the various articles on the enchante website (and the message boards) and have suffered some headaches and boredom.

So I know a few of you are into this method shaving thing and maybe you can help me out.

1) Will this really cut down on acne or skinproblems as stated in the hydrolast pdf?
2) I can not afford to pay $250 for a brush right now, will my chubby 1 super suffice? Do I need a bigger brush? If so, please list some suitable brushes.
3)What are your favorite fragrances for the various products?
4) Does the Lime & Green Tea conditioner thwart razor burn as well as the peppermint? (I already have the proraso pre/post so I am not looking for an intense cooling effect)

I am sure I have other questions but I am not trying to be so verbose when discussing this subject (after reading some of the articles I am not sure this is possible).


Chris

[joel]

I think I have caught the method shaving bug. I am looking for a shaving technique suitable for someone who suffers from acne problems and this looks like a great way to go. I also like the fact that it uses all natural ingrediants. I am only waiting on Mantic's videos to come out so that I can get the gist of how this all goes. I have spent some time reading through the various articles on the enchante website (and the message boards) and have suffered some headaches and boredom.

So I know a few of you are into this method shaving thing and maybe you can help me out.

1) Will this really cut down on acne or skinproblems as stated in the hydrolast pdf?
2) I can not afford to pay $250 for a brush right now, will my chubby 1 super suffice? Do I need a bigger brush? If so, please list some suitable brushes.
3)What are your favorite fragrances for the various products?
4) Does the Lime & Green Tea conditioner thwart razor burn as well as the peppermint? (I already have the proraso pre/post so I am not looking for an intense cooling effect)

I am sure I have other questions but I am not trying to be so verbose when discussing this subject (after reading some of the articles I am not sure this is possible).


Chris

1) Will this really cut down on acne or skinproblems as stated in the hydrolast pdf? No.... not really.

2) I can not afford to pay $250 for a brush right now, will my chubby 1 super suffice? Do I need a bigger brush? If so, please list some suitable brushes. You don't NEED a bigger brush - but with a small brush it is a big pain in the rear.... a Saville Row SRT12 (big honkin 30mm) is both big enough, and inexpensive ($80 or so)

3)What are your favorite fragrances for the various products? The cube is awful, the pastes no matter what are pretty medeocre, almost all of the tonics smell superb.

4) Does the Lime & Green Tea conditioner thwart razor burn as well as the peppermint? (I already have the proraso pre/post so I am not looking for an intense cooling effect) Yes. Hohestly though....the scent "sounds" better than it smells. The peppermint smells/feels the best in my opinion.

[mantic]

I'm about halfway through the "introductory" video on Method shaving; I hope to have it up in a week or so. In the meantime let me add my 2 cents (my opinion, YMMV):

1) Will this really cut down on acne or skinproblems as stated in the hydrolast pdf?
Possibly. One of the core concepts of Method shaving is the absence of artificial chemicals in the products, so if your skin is reacting to something, it might help.

2) I can not afford to pay $250 for a brush right now, will my chubby 1 super suffice? Do I need a bigger brush? If so, please list some suitable brushes.
You really need a relatively large, flat (as opposed to "lightbulb" shape), well-built brush. I don't think a chubby 1 would cut it, though a chubby 2 might.

3)What are your favorite fragrances for the various products? The cube is awful, the pastes no matter what are pretty medeocre, almost all of the tonics smell superb.
I like the Green Tea & Lime, myself. YMMV. BTW, the aroma of The Cube drops off significantly as you use it.

4) Does the Lime & Green Tea conditioner thwart razor burn as well as the peppermint? (I already have the proraso pre/post so I am not looking for an intense cooling effect)
They probably work about as well.

--Mark

[msandoval858]

1. It's possible. As stated before, there are no artificial products in the paste that would contribute to making acne problems any worse than they already are.

2. You don't have to spend $250 on a brush to method shave. The bigger and denser a brush is, the better the mix it will create with the cube and paste combination, however with some practice you can do it with any brush. Using a mug/bowl to get a good consistant mix really helps.

3. The cube does have a distinct smell, I personally don't think it's that bad, others hate it. It does die down after a bit of use. As for the pastes, they are not scented very heavily. I use the peppermint, which is probably the strongest of the scents they are offered in. They are blended with natural essential oils, but not too heavily. As Joel said, the tonics are all great.

4. They all work equally as well. The peppermint definately surpasses the others in cooling effect. Overall, just a matter of preference on which one to try.

[Jack Bauer]

Thanks for your advice and help Joel, Mark, and Mike. I am going to purchase the products and try it out with my chubby 1 b/c I just can't afford another brush right now. I am hoping something suitable will pop up in one of the trade forums. Mark I can't wait to see your video on this I think it will make my understanding of this whole process a lot better. Mike since I have read that you have been method shaving the longest maybe you can help me out when I have future questions. Have you seen any improvement in your overall skin health since starting this? Mike and Mark what brushes are you guys currently using and have you noticed different results using other brushes?

Joel do you believe the Saville Row would be good considering it is light bulb shaped?

Thanks for the input guys I look forward to discussing this topic more in the future.

Chris

[msandoval858]

Chris, I've only been shaving by the method with Hydrolast for a few months now. I spent tons of time reading up on it before I finally made the jump, as a result I got the hang of it pretty quickly. I also have the advantage that I visit with CAR in person almost weekly, to kill time before an evening class I take on that side of town. As far as skin condition, it's hard for me to say. I didn't have skin problems before I started so nothing has really changed, however I can say that post shave my face feels smoother and softer than with other creams/soaps.

I'm currently using a Simpson Harvard 6 which works wonderfully.

Feel free to hit me up anytime, I'd be glad to help.

[Jack Bauer]

Thanks Mike. I already have a couple questions. Where did you get this Harvard 6 from and what is its size? Also have you seen a big change compared to other brushes?

Chris

[msandoval858]

Chris,

I bout the H6 from Enchante. I chose it specifically because it was large, densely filled, and has a nice fan shape to it. I think that's the only H6 he had as he's no longer restocking Simpson, but you could check with Lee's Razors and I bet he could get one at a good price. Cambridge Chemist has it listed as well, but pretty expensive there. Here's what it looked like before use. I haven't taken any pics since...

http://www.geocities.com/msandoval500/H6Best.jpg

I haven't taken accurate measurements yet and couldn't find size chart with that model on it.

The main difference with this brush and the other I was using (EJ Super from C&E) was the density. I couldn't get a good slag built up from the cube with the floppy EJ brush. If your CH1 is pretty well packed and has a little stiffness to it, then you should be able to make it work for you. If you can scrub the cube and load the brush up pretty well, then apply the paste and continue mixing in a bowl, it's easy to control the amount of water in the mix and get a good consistancy.

[Jack Bauer]

Nice brush Mike. Unfortunately it may be a little out of my price range for now. It looks like a big PJ. I will have to try it out with my chubby 1 first until I can afford a bigger brush.

Chris

[Jack Bauer]

Also, when I was reading about the cutting forms they are not really making sense to me. Is quadrant 4 below the adams apple? If I follow them it means first pass I am going across almost against the grain on my neck. My neck hair from my adam's apple grows NW and SW toward my ears. Is it ok to go against the grain like this before working toward it? Will it lead to irritation on my neck? Is the mix that slick that it won't matter? I'd like to note that I am prone to irritation if I am not careful.

Also what is the area under your chin that is not pictured (what quadrant)?

Chris

[Jack Bauer]

I ordered the cube, some lime and green tea paste and conditioner. Should get here on wed, then I get a tutorial after that. I'll let you know how it goes.

Chris

[collinarose]

Jack, glad you're trying the Hydrolast system. I noticed you didn't order the cutting balm though. Some people have their preference, but for T&C and just overall skin conditioning, this stuff is great so you might want to try it in the future. As Mike mentioned, forming the mix in a mug will help even though you might be using a smaller brush. As for skin issues, you'll just have to see how things work for you as different people react differently to the same things. As for the conditioner, I love the lime and green tea. It's not a candy lime like QED soap. The green tea gives it more of an "earthy", toned down smell, which I actually prefer. I gave my QED lime away because it was too "sweet".

The biggest piece of advice for anyone about to take up Method Shaving is to call Charles at Enchante himself. He loves to talk which is great for learning and asking him questions. Just leave open at least an hour of time for that first call. The second thing is don't try to over-complicate things. Get the brush wet, scrub the cube about 10-20 secs to thicken lather, open up your brush, put a fingertip of paste in, add some water to the brush, and then lather up the mix like you would any other cream/soap. This holds me for the first three passes. You might want to re-crub the cube a little in between passes but I really don't need to. After that, I spread some balm thinned out with water for T&C. One thing to remember is the mix is natural inredients, and the lather will not look like the thick, cushion of shaving cream you might be used to. Also, I know it goes against the common practice for many, but stick with the Hydrolast exclusively for a week or even two. You won't know if it's helping your skin unless you use it for a while. Good luck.

-Collin

[Jack Bauer]

Jack, glad you're trying the Hydrolast system. I noticed you didn't order the cutting balm though. Some people have their preference, but for T&C and just overall skin conditioning, this stuff is great so you might want to try it in the future. As Mike mentioned, forming the mix in a mug will help even though you might be using a smaller brush. As for skin issues, you'll just have to see how things work for you as different people react differently to the same things. As for the conditioner, I love the lime and green tea. It's not a candy lime like QED soap. The green tea gives it more of an "earthy", toned down smell, which I actually prefer. I gave my QED lime away because it was too "sweet".

The biggest piece of advice for anyone about to take up Method Shaving is to call Charles at Enchante himself. He loves to talk which is great for learning and asking him questions. Just leave open at least an hour of time for that first call. The second thing is don't try to over-complicate things. Get the brush wet, scrub the cube about 10-20 secs to thicken lather, open up your brush, put a fingertip of paste in, add some water to the brush, and then lather up the mix like you would any other cream/soap. This holds me for the first three passes. You might want to re-crub the cube a little in between passes but I really don't need to. After that, I spread some balm thinned out with water for T&C. One thing to remember is the mix is natural inredients, and the lather will not look like the thick, cushion of shaving cream you might be used to. Also, I know it goes against the common practice for many, but stick with the Hydrolast exclusively for a week or even two. You won't know if it's helping your skin unless you use it for a while. Good luck.

-Collin

Thanks for all of the good advice Collin. I actually spoke to Mr. Roberts for about 20 minutes when I ordered my stuff. I told him my minor acne problem and how long I have been wetshaving for, etc. He suggested that I initially just start with the cube and the paste. I actually had to suggest the conditioner, because as you know it is getting cooler and I figured the extra moisturizer would not be a bad thing. He told me to put off the cutting balm for now. I think he may be sending some samples of stuff to try, but next time I will be ordering some tonic and cutting balm for sure (with other things I am sure). Overall I have to say that he was very nice and helpful. I look forward to my consult with him on thursday.

Chris

[msandoval858]

Chris,

I'm glad to hear you decided to give it a shot. I definately second the opinion that you try Hydrolast for a week or two to see how it's going to work with your skin. You'll need a few trys to get the hang of building a mix now that you'll be using two components instead of just one cream. Once you get it down though, the stuff shaves beautifully.

As Collin said, the mix will look a lot different than the lather you've gotten used to seeing using creams. Also the scent will not be what you expect, don't think of sweet lime aroma like other soaps and creams, it's much more subtle. Keep us updated on your progress!

[Jack Bauer]

Chris,

I'm glad to hear you decided to give it a shot. I definately second the opinion that you try Hydrolast for a week or two to see how it's going to work with your skin. You'll need a few trys to get the hang of building a mix now that you'll be using two components instead of just one cream. Once you get it down though, the stuff shaves beautifully.

As Collin said, the mix will look a lot different than the lather you've gotten used to seeing using creams. Also the scent will not be what you expect, don't think of sweet lime aroma like other soaps and creams, it's much more subtle. Keep us updated on your progress!

Mike,

I am actually glad that it isn't a sweet lime aroma, since I am not a big fan of the sweet lime in T & H's West Indian Limes. I am really looking forward to giving this a try and I have been practicing the cutting forms and J hooking. I plan on using this for 2 weeks straight and maybe permanently if it works. If that happens I will have some stuff FT of FS. I will keep everyone updated.

Chris

[Jack Bauer]

Received all of my gear today, will give it a try tomorrow. I don't think the cube smells as bad as everyone says although it doesn't smell pleasant. The lime & green tea paste and conditioner smell good though.

Chris

[skibum]

Chris,
I'll be anxious to hear how it goes for you. I've toyed with the idea of trying it myself, but haven't decided yet. Living in Austin, I've gone and talked with CAR a few times, and he makes a good case for his system.
Can't wait to hear how it works for you. :smile:

[bearbeard]

Also, when I was reading about the cutting forms they are not really making sense to me. Is quadrant 4 below the adams apple? If I follow them it means first pass I am going across almost against the grain on my neck. My neck hair from my adam's apple grows NW and SW toward my ears. Is it ok to go against the grain like this before working toward it? Will it lead to irritation on my neck? Is the mix that slick that it won't matter? I'd like to note that I am prone to irritation if I am not careful.

Also what is the area under your chin that is not pictured (what quadrant)?

Chris

Chris let us know how this problem works out as well. I have the exact same concern with the first cutting form. even a Feather hangs up on my neck whiskers if I go N-S for the first pass. Yeah, I actually tried using the forms, did not agree with me.

[Jack Bauer]

First method shave today. All I have to say is WOW!!! This stuff is fantastic. My skin has never felt so great after a shave. Also, I am going to wash my face at night with the cube b/c it is so wonderful. The Lime & Green tea smells great (much better than T & H West Indian Limes IMO). I will go strictly on a method shaving regimen for the next 2 weeks (and possibly permanantly if my skin continues to feel this great.

Now onto the shave. This stuff is incredibly slick. I had absolutely no I repeat zero problems cutting the forms. I had a hell of a time trying to cut the forms with Pre de Provence and Merkur/swede. This stuff is slicker than any other cream I have used (Trumpers, T & H, Proraso) and even slicker than the two soaps I have used (Pre de provence & QED). This was also my first shave with a feather which may have increased the smoothness but this stuff was so protective I didn't even come close to nicking my face. I have gotten a few nicks here and there (not every shave) from the 2 previous blades I have used (swedes, and merkurs) with the other creams and soaps I have used. I don't see this happening with hydrolast + feather + HD. I followed my shave up with some witch hazel (don't have any tonics yet) and some green tea and lime conditioner (which I probably could have easily skipped due to the hydrating properties of the hyrdrolast).

I also just spoke with CR and I have to say that he really is a good guy. I know he has taken a beating on these forums in the past. He believes in his system (and for good reason) and he was really willing to make sure that I had everything down. I spent a good 50+ minutes with him with no pressure to buy anything more (although I will in a week or so) and I have never met anyone so willing to spend so much time explaining how their products work.

I had no problem with my chubby 1 super building the mix (I used Mike's technique with a bowl and will do this until I get a better hang of it).

I will keep updating my progress with my shaving as well as documenting if this stuff really does help clear up my skin. I am very optimistic about this helping create a healthier skin (more optimistic than I have been about anything in the past which includes: benzoyl, salyclic acid, prescriptions, proactive - any of it).

Chris

[Jack Bauer]

Day 2.

Another great shave today. I really love the smell of the green tea & lime. I have been washing my face at night also with the cube and have already seen an increase in the overall health of my skin. My blemishes are disappearing and my skin feels so soft. This is fantastic as I was not expecting results so soon.

Chris

[skibum]

Congratulations, Chris :thumbup: it sounds like you're off to a great start! I will look forward to hearing how it's going after another week or so. Glad to hear that you're having great success so far! :biggrin: Maybe I'll finally get up the gumption to give it a try (I'm just SO reluctant to give up my English creams!) :confused:

[collinarose]

Chris,

Glad you're liking it. I really like the Lime/Green Tea scent also. Hope it continues to work well.

-Collin

[Jack Bauer]

Congratulations, Chris :thumbup: it sounds like you're off to a great start! I will look forward to hearing how it's going after another week or so. Glad to hear that you're having great success so far! :biggrin: Maybe I'll finally get up the gumption to give it a try (I'm just SO reluctant to give up my English creams!) :confused:

Mark,

I say go for it. You are right there in Austin too you can go in and smell everything plus get a tutorial. I would love for enchante to be in Portland.

Day 3 was another fantastic shave. My skin is almost completely cleared up and has never looked this healthy. I am going to order some tonics this weekend and was looking at the Vetiver and Sandalwood/citrus. Any suggestions? Also, has anyone tried the sandalwood paste and what are your thoughts on it? I am also considering the cutting balm but am not sure it will make much of a difference to the shave.


Chris

[msandoval858]

Congratulations, Chris :thumbup: it sounds like you're off to a great start! I will look forward to hearing how it's going after another week or so. Glad to hear that you're having great success so far! :biggrin: Maybe I'll finally get up the gumption to give it a try (I'm just SO reluctant to give up my English creams!) :confused:

Mark,

I have gotten very involved in this whole method shaving thing but I still use my English creams all the time. To me the Hydrolast has just added more variety to my arsenal of shave gear. Some people get started and never go back, I perfer to enjoy an added choice to my shaving options. I stopped in to visit CAR last night and even came home with a tub of Trumper Rose to play with :biggrin:

[collinarose]

Mark,

Day 3 was another fantastic shave. My skin is almost completely cleared up and has never looked this healthy. I am going to order some tonics this weekend and was looking at the Vetiver and Sandalwood/citrus. Any suggestions? Also, has anyone tried the sandalwood paste and what are your thoughts on it? I am also considering the cutting balm but am not sure it will make much of a difference to the shave.


Chris

Chris, as for tonics, I typically like to match the scent of either the paste or the conditioner. For the lime/green tea, I typically use the lime tonic. You can mix and match to whatever suits you though. Also, I have the sandalwood and like it quite a bit as well.

-Collin

[skibum]

Mark,

I say go for it. You are right there in Austin too you can go in and smell everything plus get a tutorial. I would love for enchante to be in Portland.

Chris

Okay, you guys have talked me into it! :biggrin: I'll have to pay another visit to CAR sometime very soon.

[Jack Bauer]

Tomorrow will mark 1 week method shaving. I could not be happier with the results so far. This is by far the best my skin has looked and felt in a while. I think I am a permenant convert. Although this may not be right for everyone, if you are having skin issues (ie. mild acne, etc) this might be your ticket. I have only shaved using the cutting forms and have followed everything as precisely as possible. The end result is a shave that is as close as grain shaving with less irritation and cleaner/clearer skin. If you have ever been on the fence about trying these products you shouldn't be.

Chris

[ada8356]

to each his own, but this whole 'method shaving' really sounds like a PIA.

While I love products, I also really enjoy being able to knock out a quick-but-quality shave... I also enjoy flexibility.

Most of all I enjoy enjoying my shaves and this 'system' seems to limit that with it's requirements.

[Jack Bauer]

to each his own, but this whole 'method shaving' really sounds like a PIA.

While I love products, I also really enjoy being able to knock out a quick-but-quality shave... I also enjoy flexibility.

Most of all I enjoy enjoying my shaves and this 'system' seems to limit that with it's requirements.


While I can see an argument against the amount of variety method shaving provides, the statement that method shaving is not quick is just asinine. The longest it has taken me to shave using the method is 10 mins (that was the first shave). Since then every shave has been under 10mins. This has been with me taking my time enjoying my shave as well, cutting every form (1st form twice), and a T&C. My shaves have been much quicker using the method than when using traditional grain shaving. I am sure others that have method shaved will tell you that it is in no way any slower than traditional wet shaving. In fact I'd venture a guess that most would say it is a bit quicker (hence the phrase high velocity). Although as I stated I know this isn't for everyone, it is for me for now. It has accomplished what I wanted (smooth shave less irritation, elimation of acne). I enjoy getting this from a shave more than I enjoy smelling roses, violets, and whatever else that comes from the traditional stuff. Also, I have only tried the Lime & Green tea paste and conditioner, and I have to say this stuff smells fantastic. Best smelling shaving thing ive used (I've used: Trumpers rose, lime, almond, QED B&B, Peppermint &Grapefruit soap, Proraso, T&H ultimate comfort, Nancy Boy, Pre de Provence soap, etc). So as with anything in life I say don't knock it until you try it.

Chris

[ada8356]

While I can see an argument against the amount of variety method shaving provides, the statement that method shaving is not quick is just asinine. The longest it has taken me to shave using the method is 10 mins (that was the first shave). Since then every shave has been under 10mins. This has been with me taking my time enjoying my shave as well, cutting every form (1st form twice), and a T&C. My shaves have been much quicker using the method than when using traditional grain shaving. I am sure others that have method shaved will tell you that it is in no way any slower than traditional wet shaving. In fact I'd venture a guess that most would say it is a bit quicker (hence the phrase high velocity). Although as I stated I know this isn't for everyone, it is for me for now. It has accomplished what I wanted (smooth shave less irritation, elimation of acne). I enjoy getting this from a shave more than I enjoy smelling roses, violets, and whatever else that comes from the traditional stuff. Also, I have only tried the Lime & Green tea paste and conditioner, and I have to say this stuff smells fantastic. Best smelling shaving thing ive used (I've used: Trumpers rose, lime, almond, QED B&B, Peppermint &Grapefruit soap, Proraso, T&H ultimate comfort, Nancy Boy, Pre de Provence soap, etc). So as with anything in life I say don't knock it until you try it.

Chris

I can appreciate the the 'don't knock it til you try it', but the description of everything just sounds 'rigid'.

A lot of the products sound really nice, but the process still sounds like a PIA... at least to read about it...

PS: 10 min for a three pass shave seems a stretch... maybe that shows how ignorant I am of the system.

[ada8356]

Also, I in no way mean to critique what works for anyone. I'm glad for anyone that is getting a great shave!:001_smile

[Jack Bauer]

Also, I in no way mean to critique what works for anyone. I'm glad for anyone that is getting a great shave!:001_smile


I know. That is what everyone on this board strives for day after day. This gives it to me others get it from traditional shaving. I am simply stating what works for me to maybe help shed some light on the subject for anyone interested. I am not stretching the fact that these shaves are quick. They are really quick. I am rather surprised by how fast I can get through this, as on paper it seems like quite a task.

Chris

[bearbeard]

Jack,
Is the first form for you shaving against the grain on your neck?
If so how do you keep the razor from catching on your whiskers. Just curious wether you picked up on any tricks or not.

[Jack Bauer]

Jack,
Is the first form for you shaving against the grain on your neck?
If so how do you keep the razor from catching on your whiskers. Just curious wether you picked up on any tricks or not.

Yes my hair grows up and to the west or east (depending on side). I was initially skeptical about this, but that has all been eliminated. I think it is a combination of the feather plus the mix that makes it so smooth. I had cut the forms with Pre de Provence soap and a swede (while I was waiting for the hydrolast) and I got a ton of irritation on my neck. I have had no irritation cutting the forms with the hyrolast+feather combination. Also this has allowed me to get a much better shave on my neck area since I don't have to worry about shaving with the grain (which is impossible with all the ways my hair grows on my neck).

Chris

[bearbeard]

Chris,
Sorry to call you Jack earlier. These new Avatars are making me Dizzy also.

Thanks. Sounds like the Hydrolast is really worth it! Next time I'm in the Austin area I will have to swing by and pick some up. Sounds like your Neck hair grows very similar to mine. Allready using the Feathers, LOVE EM!!!!!

[msandoval858]

The process does sound rigid. Charles writing gets pretty in detail and lengthy and some people get the feeling they're being told how to defuse a bomb rather than how to shave, lol! Personally, I've enjoyed reading it all, mostly because I'm a shave geek and will read anything on the subject :)

The truth is, using the method is fast. You'll find after awhile that the time you spend cutting the forms and doing the touch up is much faster than working with grain pattern. Don't get me wrong, grain shaving works well, even my own technique in the touch up phase still utilizes some of it, but some people with skin sensitivity like Chris have serious issues with this. Like any new system, you have to get used to using the cube and paste and mix building. I've watched Charles build a mix and it's almost astonishing how quickly he works the brush. I'm nowhere near as fast, but I can hold my own :biggrin:

[Jack Bauer]

Chris,
Sorry to call you Jack earlier. These new Avatars are making me Dizzy also.

Thanks. Sounds like the Hydrolast is really worth it! Next time I'm in the Austin area I will have to swing by and pick some up. Sounds like your Neck hair grows very similar to mine. Allready using the Feathers, LOVE EM!!!!!


It is definitely worth giving a shot IMO. Let us know what you think once you have tried some of this out.

Chris

[collinarose]

I can appreciate the the 'don't knock it til you try it', but the description of everything just sounds 'rigid'.

A lot of the products sound really nice, but the process still sounds like a PIA... at least to read about it...

PS: 10 min for a three pass shave seems a stretch... maybe that shows how ignorant I am of the system.

Aaron -

I'll second Mike's comments. Although possibly over-explained, Method Shaving is actually not only easy, but is also flexible. You build lather using the Cube just like any other soap, open the brush and put in a little paste, add some water, and work the Cube some more. That's it. You do as many passes as you need to, spray some tonic (or just wet your face) to make it easier to apply the conditioner, spread the conditioner, and then you're done. If you like extra close, you can play with the balm for the later passes/T&C, but it's not completely necessary. You can even blend some of the balm with soap from the cube for some of the later passes if that mixture helps. The only really necessary step is the initial Cube/paste combo. The rest is completely up to you.

To tell you the truth, I struggle more with getting the water/cream ratio just right with "traditional" creans than I do with the Cube/paste. I still can't really get Nancy Boy to work right. So in my mind, I find creams to be a little more difficult than Method Shaving. Hope this helps.

-Collin

[mantic]

Let me add my 2 cents, as I've been learning Method so I can do a series of videos on it (hoping to have the first one out this weekend!).

Method Shaving is a little like martial arts: there are certain parts that should be practiced fairly rigidly. The key word is "practice"--like anything you practice, it becomes faster and almost second-nature with continued use. Building mix can take some time at first (especially if you have a brush that is not "Method friendly"), but after you get the hang of it you can build a mix pretty quickly. Same with the cutting forms: they actually go pretty quick since they are designed for beard *reduction* (vs. *elimination*), so you just don't take multiple strokes in the same spot (for each Form). I've found that reduction with the Froms can be an almost casual activity...kind of a "give it a swipe and whack it down" attitude. Then, using Mix and/or Balm and finishing techniques like J-Hooking and Blade Buffing, I get that BBS feel. I've found the Tonic doesn't do a whole lot for me...but ohhhhhhh, the skin conditioner... :thumbup: (even if I shave "traditionally").

--Mark

[Jack Bauer]

Let me add my 2 cents, as I've been learning Method so I can do a series of videos on it (hoping to have the first one out this weekend!).

--Mark

Mark,

I can't wait to see your video, I am sure it will be great like the rest of them.

Chris

[Mottern Man]

I'm about halfway through the "introductory" video on Method shaving; I hope to have it up in a week or so. In the meantime let me add my 2 cents (my opinion, YMMV):


Possibly. One of the core concepts of Method shaving is the absence of artificial chemicals in the products, so if your skin is reacting to something, it might help.


You really need a relatively large, flat (as opposed to "lightbulb" shape), well-built brush. I don't think a chubby 1 would cut it, though a chubby 2 might.


I like the Green Tea & Lime, myself. YMMV. BTW, the aroma of The Cube drops off significantly as you use it.


They probably work about as well.

--Mark


2 cents man ur cheep ............ what can i get for $3.50

[Jack Bauer]

Received my sandalwood paste, sandalwood/citrus & lime tonics, and a sample of peppermint conditioner. WOOHOO!!! I'll give it a go tomorrow but I can tell you already that they all smell fantastic.

Chris

[Jack Bauer]

Todays shave was my first with the sandalwood paste and the sandalwood/citrus tonic. It was a very enjoyable and smooth shave. My face feels great after the combination of the tonic and my Lime & Green Tea conditioner. The sandalwood paste is a very mild but enjoyable scent. The tonic is also very nice and a bit more potent than the paste. I didn't need to use the conditioner after the shave but I decided to go ahead and use a little anyways.

Chris

[Jack Bauer]

After about a month of strictly method shaving I tried something different today. I used my chubby 1, Pre de provence soap, and a merkur hd w/ a feather. The shave overall went ok. It was not nearly as smooth or as slick as with the hydrolast products. I cut all of the forms and I tried to dry blade buff after but it didn't work as well as with the cube+paste combo. My skin does feel hydrated and good though after some lime tonic and coral skin food.

As much as I enjoy method shaving with the hydrolast products I still find myself wanting to try other things. I guess this is just my personality. I also find that I am not using the skin conditioner as much as there is so much moisture here. It will take me years to finish it all at this pace. My skin is rarely ever dry in Portland. It rains too damn much.:smile: In the midwest and when I was at school in Arizona my skin would get dry around this time of year but that hasn't happened yet. Anyways enough with the rant. Have a nice Thanksgiving everyone.

Chris