Newbie with afew questions

Griffon23 · 08-11-2009, 05:18 PM

Hey all, I've been lurking here for awhile and have learned quite abit. I have been using a Merkur 38c, an amazing brush that I got here from Penworks(thanks again!) and some shaving soap that I got from Walmart. I have been doing it for about a month now and I'm really enjoying it. I still haven't cut myself which is actually making me more nervous because every time I go shave I think "I'm sure I'll get cut this time." I do have two quick questions for you shaving pros.

1. I've been waiting to get some Taylor of Old Bond cream and have recently found that Proraso cream is available at my local Bath & Body Works. I bought some and started shaving with it. I've used it 3 times now but for some reason I can't get the lather right. I had an amazing lather with the generic soap but it seems like I can't get enough froth going with the cream. Is this normal or do I need to do something different when making a cream lather? I probably spend double the time working it then I do with the soap and it still isn't producing as much for me. I've tried with no water, afew drops, and a decent amount and each time I feel like I'm working it too much for what I get.

2. I got a blade sampler pack and so far have only used the Astra blades. I was wondering if these are good to start out with/stick with and how soon I should switch. Also, how often should someone use a blade before tossing it out?

Thanks for the advice.

**strat1117** · 08-11-2009, 05:32 PM

1. Proraso gets a lot of love around here, but I am not a particularly huge fan, for exactly the reason you state -- I simply think that a lot of other creams lather better (including the TOBS you mention). I am also primarily a tallow soap guy. Nevertheless, Proraso does give a great shave and I do like to use it from time to time, especially on hot day. I address the issue by using a little more product with Proraso than I do with other creams, and by adjusting the water ratio to taste (you can make it slicker with less water, and frothier with more).

2. The Astras are great blades, but only you can tell which ones will work best for you in your razor. I would recommend using two or three of each blade in a row (3 or 4 shaves each), so that you have a good feel for each blade before you switch to the next. Then, once you have tried a few different blades, pick the one or two that you like best and just stick with them. You may find that different blades work better in different razors, but one thing we all agree on is that everyone gets different results, even with the same blades, so you must determine empirically which one best suits your technique, your razor and most of all, your face.

Just keep in mind, good technique and good prep are paramount, much more so than equipment -- it's the Indian, not the arrow.

Welcome to the site. Enjoy!

**rm71** · 08-11-2009, 05:34 PM

Welcome to B&B.

**luvmysuper** · 08-11-2009, 05:41 PM

Originally Posted by strat1117

1. Proraso gets a lot of love around here, but I am not a particularly huge fan, for exactly the reason you state -- I simply think that a lot of other creams lather better (including the TOBS you mention). I am also primarily a tallow soap guy. Nevertheless, Proraso does give a great shave and I do like to use it from time to time, especially on hot day. I address the issue by using a little more product with Proraso than I do with other creams, and by adjusting the water ratio to taste (you can make it slicker with less water, and frothier with more).

2. The Astras are great blades, but only you can tell which ones will work best for you in your razor. I would recommend using two or three of each blade in a row (3 or 4 shaves each), so that you have a good feel for each blade before you switch to the next. Then, once you have tried a few different blades, pick the one or two that you like best and just stick with them. You may find that different blades work better in different razors, but one thing we all agree on is that everyone gets different results, even with the same blades, so you must determine empirically which one best suits your technique, your razor and most of all, your face.

Just keep in mind, good technique and good prep are paramount, much more so than equipment -- it's the Indian, not the arrow.

Welcome to the site. Enjoy!

+1

welcome aboard

**Tom Ford** · 08-11-2009, 05:41 PM

Hi,

Your doing a great job so far.

I'm not a huge fan of Proraso cream or soap, I've struggled with it, however their A/S balm and splash are awesome products. I find the the 3 T's that are mentioned often on B&B are great, and that includes TOBS. I'm currently using TOBS Avacado, and Truefitt & Hill West Indian Limes cream and both lather up exceptionally well.

As for the blades, its personal choice. What works for you in giving the best shave without irritation, nicks and cuts. Starting out DE and with a blade sample kit, I would use a blade for a week - 3 shaves to get an idea. Now that I have a bit more experience I'm a Personna Red fan, and usually my blade will last for 3 shaves, I could probably squeeze out a fourth if I had too.

Keep it up and welcome to B&B

**DunEdinRanger** · 08-11-2009, 06:21 PM

Originally Posted by Griffon23

...

1. I've been waiting to get some Taylor of Old Bond cream and have recently found that Proraso cream is available at my local Bath & Body Works. I bought some and started shaving with it. I've used it 3 times now but for some reason I can't get the lather right. I had an amazing lather with the generic soap but it seems like I can't get enough froth going with the cream. Is this normal or do I need to do something different when making a cream lather? I probably spend double the time working it then I do with the soap and it still isn't producing as much for me. I've tried with no water, afew drops, and a decent amount and each time I feel like I'm working it too much for what I get.

2. I got a blade sampler pack and so far have only used the Astra blades. I was wondering if these are good to start out with/stick with and how soon I should switch. Also, how often should someone use a blade before tossing it out?

Thanks for the advice.

Griffon,

As far as Number 1, maybe adding a goodly sized snurdle of the cream from the tube onto the brush itself, after letting some excess water roll out may help.

Astras are great blades. I don't know how long you've been using the same blades, but if you start to get cuts, it is time to change the blade.

**dpmtherrien** · 08-11-2009, 07:24 PM

Welcome, glad you could join us. Just keep trying things and working on your technique. Things will come together really quick.

**mdunn** · 08-11-2009, 08:17 PM

welcome aboard, mate

**Luc** · 08-11-2009, 08:32 PM

Welcome to B&B!

Well, I love Proraso!

I would try adding around 2 almonds worth of cream to build some lather. Soak the brush for 5 minutes in warm water (while you shower) get rid of any excess water in the brush (good squeeze) and build the lather in a small bowl. It should work like a charm.

For the blades. Astra are my favorites. When you will be done with your pack of Astra, I would recommend moving to another brand. They might be better or worse. Try them all before you make your mind on a particular blade!

**michiganlover** · 08-12-2009, 03:55 AM

Originally Posted by Luc

Welcome to B&B!

Well, I love Proraso!

I would try adding around 2 almonds worth of cream to build some lather. Soak the brush for 5 minutes in warm water (while you shower) get rid of any excess water in the brush (good squeeze) and build the lather in a small bowl. It should work like a charm.

+1. I love Proraso too, and have had no issues getting a rich creamy lather from it. I have found it's always best to start out with a fairly dry brush, as it is far easier to add more water, then try to compensate for a product that is already too wet.

**NickCutlip** · 08-12-2009, 01:34 PM

Welcome to B&B !!

**grouse79** · 08-12-2009, 02:36 PM

I find Proraso works great - usually add quite a generous amount, about an inch or so squeezed out of the tube. I add water sparingly, usually just a couple of drops at a time by shaking them from my wet hand into the shaving mug.

Re cuts and nicks, I usually only discovered I've nicked myself when I clean off the lather with a facecloth, there usually is no pain.