Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I am a new-comer to the D/E world, but have been looking long and hard for something that shaves this close! I am only 26, but ever since I started shaving (around 16) I had always been unsatisfied. Either by paying too much for cartridge replacements (mach3, fusion, quattro, disposable, etc....) or by the tearing feeling I would get from an electric. I've probably owned every disposable on the market, and 5 different electrics. Not that I loved shaving, I just was always hoping the next product would actually work!
Here enters the idea of straight razors and double edge (d/e) razors. I first heard of it a long time ago, but as with many people my age I thought the newer products were surely better because they have by and large replaced any idea of D/E's.
Anyone looking at this razor has probably already done some research, that's how I found it. And it seems, that's how many other people have come across Merkur as well. To that end I will try and keep my story short and bullet-point my original (pre-purchase) concerns and my afterthoughts now of owning this razor for 3 months.
Pre-Purchase Concerns:
- I thought that it really couldn't be that much closer than a disposable.
- I thought it was too much money up-front (even though the long term costs were lower, it was difficult to decide since I had no point of comparison)
- I was worried about how long it would take to shave. I don't have much time in the morning as I generally trade it for as much sleep as possible. Post-Purchase Experiences:
Okay, so to start I have to say that this razor as with many other D/E's will do a GREAT job on your face! My concerns above were quelled after a couple of weeks using the Futur. Your technique is the MOST important part of shaving with a D/E and I guarantee that you will be frustrated for a month or two (learning curve dependent). I walked out after shaving a few times with at least 20 little cuts all over my neck. Since I'm assuming that you've already done some research, I'll also assume that you've heard that story before - and let me assure you... it will happen to you.
Despite that unpleasant experience, once I finally started to get the technique down, my shaves became better and better! They've been getting so good lately that I can't wait to hit the shower and shave! It is one of the most satisfying rituals I've come across. I tell all of my friends about it, trying to convert everyone that I see. Using a D/E truly is the best way to shave... although it will take you longer in the morning to do it properly.
When I was using an electric, or disposable cartridge type, I could generally shave in 5 minutes. Slather on some cheap shaving cream, and tug away with your mach3. To get a really good shave now, it takes me about 20 minutes (start to finish). My neck is the part that takes the longest. I have hair that looks like a hurricane and grows in all sorts of directions which makes it very difficult to shave and not cut yourself. Despite the time consumed shaving I still manage to get all my "zzz's" in the morning. That's because the shave is soo close I can shave at night before going to bed. When I wake up in the morning it's still as smooth as ever!
The first time you experience that is one amazing moment of jubilation. And after, you'll never go back.
Overall, I would recommend this razor to just about anyone looking to buy. BUT, this razor is not the end-all be-all. It's fantastic, but the classic Merkur HD style is just as good (for 1/2 the price). Even though it's adjustable, I essentially keep it at the same setting all of the time.
Here are some other thoughts if you are considering getting into D/E shaving. The up-front cost can be expensive as mentioned earlier, but it is worth it. Below I've listed (in order) where you should put your money first, the products at the bottom can be upgraded later and these first ones are good enough to get you started:
#1) Brush! (This is the most important part of wet-shaving). You may think the razor is more important, but it's not. You don't need a $500 brush, but about $50 - $80 will get you a very respectable brush from Vulvix. Make sure it's a Badger hair brush. And within the badger brushes some people claim that silver-tip badger hair is top of the line (it's just hair from a certain part of the badger).
#2) Razor
#3) Post-Shaving Cream. Here is where many people cheap-out. The old train of though goes that an alcohol based aftershave or something off the shelf at a supermarket (read Nivea for Men, etc.) is fine. This has not been the case for me. Especially while you are learning, you'll want a good after-shave that will help reduce the redness and irritation you'll experience. Let me remind you, that once you get your technique down - you won't see anymore razor bumps!
For the cream, buy Geo Trumper's Skin Food. It's nearly $30 a bottle, but well worth it. Don't chicken out, you face will love you for it!
#4) Shaving Cream. I've been using Proraso here - it's cheap, $9, and will last a long time. Go for this while you're learning. After your first tube of this you should be getting pretty good - then you can buy some of Geo Trumper's shaving cream tubs. :)Now that you have those products selected, here are a few more that you are going to need. These are all cheap and often overlooked, get them - it will make your life easier.
#1) 'My Nik is Sealed' (This is much better than a stiptic pencil, and won't leave any white residue on your face. Stops bleeding from cuts and scraps quick. Especially needed while learning. Note: The product name is actually "My Nik is sealed", just for clarification.
#2) Large coffee mug. A wider mug is better as this is what you should mix your later in. Check out the following link from "Mantic59"
http://www.youtube.com/mantic59
for some very educational videos. I watched his whole series and it was
very very helpful.
#3) Grapeseed Oil. Yes I know that sounds odd, but it works wonders if you oil up your face before applying lather. This helps me so that the razor glides over my skin easier and reduces cuts. You can buy it at your local supermarket and it should be cheap. Also, don't substitute olive oil or another oil. There is something about Grapeseed oil that works better than the rest.
#4) Hydrocortisone 1% Cream. This should be used sparingly if ever - I don't believe it is good to apply to your skin on a regular basis. It's benefit? It will remove almost all razor burn within an hour, so if you've really chopped up your face and need to go to work or on a date... it can be a lifesaver!
#5) Mens Grooming Tweezers. Not necessary but helpful to get out in-grown hairs (as they occur). All right folks - I hope this was informative and helpful. Good luck in your purchase - you will not be disappointed if you stick with it.
Happy Shaving!
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Merkur "Futur" Safety Razor, Satin Finish
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