DE and Tugging: Is this at all normal?

**ryan0626** · 03-09-2009, 04:44 PM

Well let's see, I just started wet shaving about a week ago now by purchasing a Lord Tech Razor and Derby Extra blades. I also brought a soap and brush but have yet to use those as I am still transitioning. Currently, I'm adapting to the razor using Gillette's foamy shaving cream.

Now onto the actual problems. I shaved today (after not shaving for two days as my hair does not grow back to a state that is not presentable until this point) and found the shave to be like that of a shave on my old cartridge razor (Gillette Sensor) after about a week of not shaving. The resulting sensation was a heavy pulling near the jawline close to the chin, as well as directly on the chin. The problem also persisted on the neck area directly below my ears on my chin. However, the second pass was far easier than the first, with virtually no feelings of tugging at all.

Now, I have heard that the first pass is supposed to be the easiest, and that the shave should not be tugging in the least bit. The blades are brand new so I don't feel like a Derby should be at all dull by this point (only a week!).The next variable could be if I am actually going with the grain on the first pass. Unfortunately, I've looked and felt around and it definitely feels like N to S on my chin / jaw line is with the grain. Any ideas or suggestions on how to fix this problem?

**Ernie** · 03-09-2009, 04:53 PM

Practice.

[/thread]

Just kidding. The tugging you experience I would say is the result of shaving direction, blade angle, or pressure. Tugging pretty much means that the blade is getting stuck in your hairs.

First, re-check your hair growth. Second, try to use less pressure and see if this helps and if you still actually cut the hair. Third, play with the blade angle.

Fourth, come back and post some more.

**SavantStrike** · 03-09-2009, 04:55 PM

Originally Posted by Ernie

Practice.

[/thread]

Just kidding. The tugging you experience I would say is the result of shaving direction, blade angle, or pressure. Tugging pretty much means that the blade is getting stuck in your hairs.

First, re-check your hair growth. Second, try to use less pressure and see if this helps and if you still actually cut the hair. Third, play with the blade angle.

Fourth, come back and post some more.

+1

And also make sure you have adequate prep (warm water to soften beard).

**Dalejr** · 03-09-2009, 05:11 PM

From my own expereince; when I leave my beard almost a week verses 3 days or less, there is alot more tugging due to the increased length of the hair follicles. Also as noted by the others, prep can make a big difference. It could also be that derbys arent for you, you may need a sharper blade: Red IP's, Gillette 7'o clocks, or Feathers might be worth trying...

**mdunn** · 03-09-2009, 05:23 PM

as well as what others have said (pressure, angle etc) id work on a better preshave, and bust out that brush&soap combo. you'll be amazed at the difference between good lather and foam in a can.

**Jim** · 03-09-2009, 05:31 PM

Is your razor tightened all the way- snug against the blade?

**ryan0626** · 03-09-2009, 05:49 PM

Yes, Jim. The blade is secured tightly. I'll definitely try these other suggestions, thanks everyone.

**mparker762** · 03-09-2009, 07:57 PM

Originally Posted by ryan0626

The blades are brand new so I don't feel like a Derby should be at all dull by this point (only a week!).

How many shaves during this week? You said every other day, so 3 or 4 shaves on the one blade maybe? That's probably the average life around here for a DE blade, so it's likely that it's time to replace it. They're cheap enough and it's better than a sucky shave.

**pal** · 03-09-2009, 07:59 PM

Originally Posted by mparker762

How many shaves during this week? You said every other day, so 3 or 4 shaves on the one blade maybe? That's probably the average life around here for a DE blade, so it's likely that it's time to replace it. They're cheap enough and it's better than a sucky shave.

Yeah, just change the blade and see if you still have the same trouble.

rainman · 03-09-2009, 08:05 PM

The Lord Tech Razor has a nice look to it but it seems like it would be very mild. I also agree with the sharper blade or change the Derby more often.

**Psychdude** · 03-09-2009, 08:55 PM

I, too, have found that the longer my whiskers are, the more pulling I experience. Shave a little more often and that should go away! (hopefully)

ash

**Jim Bowie** · 03-09-2009, 09:07 PM

Don't know your razor, but you are shaving every other day (usually no problem) so my suggestions would be to

1) change the blade now and anytime it starts to drag (on average every 3 shaves)
2) get a sample pack of blades so you can find out which work best
3) start using your brush and soap, no reason to wait and you should enjoy the difference
4) avoid changing more than one variable at a time and stick with one for at least three shaves

Good luck! Let us know how it goes.

**nrek619** · 03-09-2009, 09:13 PM

ditch the can!!!!! use your brush and soap!!!! prep with hot water and maybe a good face scrub to get them whiskers in check. Derbys aren't for everyone so you may want to get a sample pack at WestCoast shaving (red pack...

). also....invest in a good starter DE like a vintage SuperSpeed, your shave will be sssooo different than with the Lord.....trust me....... check BST for deals. welcome to B&B!!! hope this helps. I'm no expert, but it is trial and error until you get you own technique down. adjust after a few shaves until your comfortable with it. drastic changes!!?= excessive blood loss!!!! ..... one more thing...... ...try a another hot water splash to keep your face moist in between each pass!! dry face=bad.......

bluefoxicy · 03-09-2009, 09:48 PM

Get some real soap, add more water if the soap is too dry at all.

Replace those Derby blades with Merkur or Gillette Platinums, something platinum-coated. (Personally I hated the Crystal blades). Derby blades are polymer coated, and won't cut thick hair as easy.

**Chacki** · 03-10-2009, 04:03 AM

Sounds like you need more prep to me.

I often find if ive rushed my prep i get tugging and its a direct signal to stop - go and re-soak my beard.

Check this Vid from Mantic on 'Kyles prep'.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwIP9K2VKXY