Couple of Questions Blades and Soap/Cream

[Ray-Vigo]

I've been trying some different blades lately. Is there a particular brand I should look into that is friendly to sensitive skin or that minimizes irritation? I'm pretty prone to irritation, so I've been looking for a smooth shaving blade that isn't overly aggressive (but that still gives a good shave).

With disposal of used blades-- is it better practice to use the plastic blade slot in the package or just toss them in the trash bin?

Is it true that a shave cream like Proraso is a better bet for someone with dry skin than a shaving soap? I have dry, sensitive skin and have been using Proraso cream with good results so far. Would a soap be a better bet, or should I stick with the cream?

Thanks for your guidance.

[Ray-Vigo]

Any thoughts?

[shill789]

Try a Derby or Crystal IP blade. However, I find that better technique with a Feather works best. Just keep thinking NO PRESSURE, and the irritation will be less and less as you learn. You might need to go with a less aggressive razor, too. Something like a Gillette Super Speed.

I would hate for my wife to stick her hand in the bathroom trash in search of a Macy's receipt or something, only to find she slices a finger! Plus the razor might cut through the bag. I always place my used razors in the plastic blade slot, and then I toss the whole thing in the recycle bin. I have no idea if they are actually recycled, but it seems the better than guaranteeing a trip to the landfill.

[TimeWeaver]

I live in Phoenix and their response to my inquiry about recycling is that yes, they do recycle DE blades, as long as they're in some (probably appropriately-labelled) container so the sharp edges don't protrude. (YMMV, so you may want to check in your area)

And yes, it's best to use the plastic blade slot in the package or use a blade bank.

Regarding which blades, I've been using Dorco T300s my barber gave me to try. They're not the sharpest, but they're sharp enough for a DFS every time (YMMV -- technique, technique, technique.) (and prep!) ;-)

[Ray-Vigo]

Thanks for the tips: I do indeed use a Gillette Superspeed as my main razor these days. It's milder than my Parker.

I tried the 7am cheap blades, but they were unpleasant. The Derbys have been better for me, though I've heard good things about the Red Pack Israelis and the Crystal blades.

Based on that advice I placed an order for the small blade sampler from West Coast Shaving. It has a couple of the brands that have been suggested to me. None of the blades are particularly costly though, which is good.

I'll be putting the blades in the blade discard slot from now on-- nobody really reaches into the garbage for anything, but it's still safer that way I guess.

Does anyone have a comparison of tube shaving cream versus shaving soap for dry skin?

[Teiste]

I have kind of dry skin and Tabac soap works perfect with my skin.Also is an outstanding soap.The other one is La Toja shaving stick but I guess that its hard to find it in USA.Speick cream is also great too.

[adonnellyr]

Any answer you get on here is going to be biased based on personal preference and you really need to try things out for yourself. With that preface, however, I have found the Derby blades to be particularly forgiving. Also, I haven't tried out the Proraso cream, but the green Proraso "soap" is quite nice on my skin (which can be dry at times). Adding Proraso Preshave to your lineup should make the blade glide more easily over your face as well, reducing dry skin--something to consider.

That said, I prefer using Trumper's soap and skin food for the ultimate moisturizing shave. I find my skin looks really healthy after using these products together (with the proraso preshave still).

Happy shaving!

-Anthony

[rabidpotatochip]

As far as blades go, just try a whole bunch out...

Like shill789 said, I think it's best to put the blades in some kind of container. Some people use empty tin cans, some use special blade banks, I've been using an empty vitamin bottle in my shave drawer (it should be full in 2027).

I'm more of a soap guy now, so take this next part with a grain of salt... Proraso is definitely a good cream, I use it every now and then. I'd also recommend checking out TOBS Avocado. I've never actually used the avocado stuff, but it's supposed to be very good.