I first started wet shaving with a double edge (DE) razor because I was tired of paying for expensive disposable safety razors. I also had a serious problem with neck irritation and razor burn. I tried two blades, four blades, gels, and creams. No matter what I did, shaving was a painful experience.
I bought a DE razor, shaving soap, and brush because someone had told me how much cheaper it was (100 blades for $10, 1 puck of shaving soap $1.50, last me 6 months). They also claimed they got a better shave, and less irritation. I used the DE razor for a while, and was pleased with the results. It was definitely easier on my skin, and the price was right.
After shaving like that for about a year, I suppose out of boredom, I decided to give shaving with a straight razor a try. I've now been shaving every other day with a straight razor for two years and I will never go back to modern shaving. There is a learning curve, but once you get it down, it's easy. The shave you get is incredibly close, and zero irritation.
Although sharping a razor is different than a knife, your honing skills will improve dramatically. I only hone my razor every couple of months, but I strop it before each shave. It only takes a few minutes.
The environmental impact of using a staight razor and shaving soap is far less than disposable. Think of the millions of plastic safety razors and aerosol cans thrown in the trash every day.
There is also something to be said for the ritual of shaving. Straight razor shaving is an exercise in focus. If you loose your focus, you will nick yourself(you learn to pay attention to what you are doing pretty quickly if you like the way your face looks). Straight razor shaving helps you to clear your head. It is very therapeutic. The best part is, you will only need one razor for the rest of your life! The best razors are German steel(carbon) and usually around $150, but it's the last razor you will ever need.
Anyone here into straight razor shaving?
