Newbie to DE-Love it!

**jwill** · 06-30-2011, 04:23 PM

Hello, received my Merkur 180 today. Got a great shave right out of the box. I've been a electric guy for the last ten years, then recently started using my cartridge shaver again. My face felt better and the shave lasted longer. So, I discovered this site and trying to soak up info to help my progress. My starting point is the Merkur and a 10 pack of their blades, boar brush and VDH soap. Thanks for any suggestions

**Sledgehammer39** · 06-30-2011, 04:24 PM

Welcome Aboard.. The 23C is a great three piece razor.

**mandoman** · 06-30-2011, 04:29 PM

Welcome to B&B

**Greyfox** · 06-30-2011, 04:31 PM

Welcome to B&B!

**cliffordNC** · 06-30-2011, 04:49 PM

DE really does give a better shave for me than anything else, but it does take longer because i go slow and careful.

**Eric V** · 06-30-2011, 05:18 PM

Glad you found DE shaving, found us, and made a post!

Suggestions? Get a blade sampler ... it is the best way for a newbie to learn razor technic. Do you use anything for after shave treatments? Alum? Styptic pencil? Witch hazel? Skin balm or aftershave?

**Kwaka_Chris** · 06-30-2011, 05:34 PM

Also buy a small selection of creams (Proraso/Palmolive/whatever you can find) because IMHO it makes a big difference to the shave, at least the enjoyment factor. I am a recent convert to Proraso and it is a very good experience.

Blade sampler! once you get your technique going fairly well, try out different blades, see what works for you. When you find the right blade, if you buy them in qty's numbering past 1000, we had nothing to do with it

Originally Posted by cliffordNC

DE really does give a better shave for me than anything else, but it does take longer because i go slow and careful.

+1

**franstjohn** · 06-30-2011, 05:45 PM

Welcome aboard!

You have a great set-up going for you.The 23C was my second DE and it is still in my rotation. The Merkur blades are among my favorites although I seem to be in a minority on that point.

**Viseguy** · 06-30-2011, 05:45 PM

VDH is a great soap. Excellent lather, great value.

Welcome!

**klm099** · 06-30-2011, 05:50 PM

never understood the use of an electric, glad you found the site, enjoy,
ken

**ackvil** · 06-30-2011, 06:29 PM

Welcome to B&B.

For a good starting off point look at the information at this post. The information there will direct you to where you can get answers to all of your shaving needs. Plus, it’s always a good idea to read the wikis and stickies. And, don’t forget; if you have any questions just ask.

**FreezerBurns** · 06-30-2011, 06:39 PM

Welcome to this groove.

**demaro** · 06-30-2011, 06:42 PM

Welcome to the group !!

**jwill** · 06-30-2011, 07:13 PM

I use Nivea after-shave balm

**FreezerBurns** · 06-30-2011, 07:29 PM

Originally Posted by jwill

I use Nivea after-shave balm

And?

(Does it work for you, are you happy with the results, do you need advice for something else....)

**DaveNJ74** · 06-30-2011, 07:51 PM

Welcome aboard!

**Wendy** · 06-30-2011, 07:56 PM

Welcome to B&B!

**StillShaving** · 06-30-2011, 08:49 PM

Welcome. There are so many different products to try that could improve your shave experience, but you have a good kit that can work well for as long as you stay satisfied with it. As for a general recommendation you might most enjoy trying out a new soap or shave cream, along with some basic aftershave splash. You can gets lots of ideas from the other sub-forums. As a second step you could add a razor blade sampler pack and a badger brush.