I have been reading these forums for awhile now, and am completely overwhelmed! There are so many pre-shaves, lotions and post-shaves available and it seems every person out there claims something else is the best. This just leads to massive confusion on what to give a try first.
So, I'll explain how I do things right now. I have tried only one method so far. I first start with a nice warm shower and tend to take it slowly, so I'm in there for 15-20 minutes usually. After I get out, I dry my head off, then put some HeadSlick on my head, letting it have time to set in while I dry the rest of myself off. I then shave, then rinse my head with cold water. That's it.
I bought a HeadBlade Sport and tried that the first 5 days or so, and I just don't like it. I can't explain why, really, I just dislike the mechanics of it. So the last day or two I've been using a Gillette Fusion ProGlide Power. I do like this razor very much, it seems to get much closer than the HBS, and I have never nicked my face or head (yet) with it, though nicked my head nearly every time with the HBS. So, that is how I'm doing things now.
The problem I have, while the HeadSlick works well, I really don't like the menthol feeling, and I really really don't like how goopy and thick it is. I have to keep an old toothbrush nearby when shaving because it just clogs the razor up and causes problems!
So, my question is, what should I start with? Need recommendations for a pre-shave, shave, and post-shave. I know this is purely preference, but what are two or three generally accepted "good places to start"? Again, I am not looking for the definitive answer, just a general census of what you all would say would be the best things to try first. Highest priority is something that will greatly reduce chances of any nicks, followed by something that isn't overly goopy so as not to gunk up the razor so bad I need a brush to clean it out. Also, my preference is a shiny head, though I don't care either way if it's shiny or matte, as long as it's buttery smooth!
Jeff
I was using an electric either in our out of the shower (waterproof Panasonic). Lately though I have been using a Fusion for a closer shave.
I jump in the shower and wet the head with warm/hot water. Rub some olive oil onto the scalp and then some shaving cream. Shave with the Fusion making sure I got it all and rinse it off (usually do a quick once over with a little more shaving cream and another shave).
Rinse the head with warm water and then switch to cold. Dry off and apply Thayers Witch Hazel. Let that dry and then apply Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera and sometimes Headlube Glossy.
If I will be outside alot I'll slap some sunscreen on it prior to the Aloe Vera.
This method works great for me and isn't very time consuming.
I use the Headblade razors and as far as my experience, it will take you more than just 5 days to get used to it and maybe like it. You know best, but you must know that the HB has a learning curve. I would suggest, now that you already have one, to give it a month long shot. It is really unique and fun to use.
I do get a warm shower too, but don't dry my head, instead apply the shave gel directly. After I have a cold rinse and apply Witch Hazel followed by an Aloe Vera Gel for moisturizing and to get a shiny dome.
I use a generic Nivea shave gel, Headslick is ok but any other cheaper foam or gel will also do the job.
Thank you both for the advice so far. I should clarify, I do love the ergonomics of the HeadBlade. The problem I have is that on the back of my head, I have a somewhat awkward to "navigate" bump. The entire area just doesn't get a close shave with the HeadBlade both with the stock cartridge and with a Sensor cartridge. The design of the HeadBlade just doesn't let it follow that area closely for some reason. I, for some horrible reason, decided to try going sideways once and just cut myself horribly. The Fusion simply doesn't have this problem. Keep in mind, both of these have a learning curve for me, I have only ever used the Fusion on my face once before. I was too lazy and just stuck with my electric.
As for the product advice, I will definitely be getting some Witch Hazel as well as some generic shave gel. The Olive Oil intrigues me a bit, but does it give your head any odd odor? I don't have any in front of me at the moment, but I seem to recall it having an odd odor to it.
Thanks again for the advice so far!
Jeff
hello and welcome.
I'm a basin shaver, so it's preety much as it's for the face.
I've had good results lately with a layer of Shave Secret (usually available at Wally World) and Aveneo Therapeutic Shave Gel.