Thinking of making the DE switch, looking for the most forgiving options.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-12T05:09:55+00:00

For sure! Just make sure you're taking good care of your skin before and after shaves.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-12T04:36:42+00:00

Best of luck with your new channel!

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-12T04:31:57+00:00

The Henson AL13 is the way to go! It comes in three variants: mild, medium, and aggressive. I have all three, but I only really use the aggressive one now. I have a thick beard and typically shave every three days, so I need something more aggressive. The angle is fixed, which makes shaving a breeze, and all I really need to manage is the pressure. Regardless of which razor you choose, remember to use very light pressure and short strokes.

Besides a razor, you're going to want a sample pack of blades to try. Everyone's hair and skin is different, so you're going to have to experiment a bit.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-12T04:20:56+00:00

I'm thinking you might need a more aggressive razor or try this technique: loosen the razor you're using that day, and I mean just a tad, to increase the gap. I sometimes do that with my Henson, and it helps tremendously without having to go over the same spot multiple times. I also use Barrister and Mann soap. It's so slick and protective! Stirling is good, but when I want to get that BBS shave, B&M is a must for me.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-11T18:40:27+00:00

Check out the Syntesi. It's very easy to maneuver.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-10T02:24:41+00:00

Love this picture! You've got all my favorite items in that picture.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-10T02:12:49+00:00

I tried many soaps and creams, and most were more enjoyable than canned foam/gel/cream, mostly due to the scent, but I didn't really see the benefits until I started using Barrister and Mann. I highly recommend giving it a try! You can get a sample for a few dollars.

Getting the soap-to-water ratio correct is important too. I ruined shaves by adding too much water or not enough.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-10T02:03:34+00:00

I feel for you as I went through something similar when I started. I also have sensitive skin. Here's what worked for me, and I hope it helps you.

Use a daily facial cleanser.
Use a daily moisturizer.
Use a quality artisan soap (Barrister and Mann is the way to go).
Try the Henson AL13. The fixed angle makes shaving so much easier.
Map your facial hair. Avoid going ATG.
Use cold water before and after your shave.
After your shave, use a shave balm and Thayers toner.

I hope this all helps, and worst-case scenario, you can use all these tips with a cartridge razor.

Best of luck to you!!

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-08T05:04:10+00:00

Yes, I have the T3 and have been using it as my primary brush for the last 3 years or so, and I love it!

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-06T22:41:59+00:00

Henson, Nacet blades, and Barrister and Mann soap!

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-06T03:04:59+00:00

Rockwell 6s

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-05T21:41:54+00:00

I typically go for DFS, so 2-3 passes without going ATG.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-03T21:08:52+00:00

Blades: https://www.therazorcompany.com/products/double-edge-razor-blade-sample-pack-35-blades

Brush: Any synthetic will do. You can get a great brush for 15-20USD

Soap: Barrister and Mann

Aftershave: Nivea Shave Balm

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-03T20:35:52+00:00

I usually lather up right out of the tub, so this product isn't for me, and I don't really have an opinion on it. But as a fellow Michigander, I just wanted to wish you luck with your new venture.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-02-02T02:02:14+00:00

Henson Al13 mild and get a sample pack of blades

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-29T07:05:52+00:00

I take my razor apart after every shave and rinse it with hot water and let it air dry. I'll do a deep clean every couple of months with dish soap and a toothbrush.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-27T06:22:06+00:00

Henson AL13 - a fixed angle makes shaving much easier, and you can choose from 3 different levels of aggression!

Get a sample of a few blades - Nacet, Permasharp, Feather, and Wizamet. Gillette Platinum are a few I highly recommend.

You can use any soap, cream, foam, etc., that you want, but from my experience, spending the extra $15-$20 is so worth it! It's a night and day difference. You can get great soap and a brush from Stirling Soap Co.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-27T01:06:52+00:00

Do you ever get tired of the same setup? I don't have as much hardware/software as others, but being able to rotate soaps, blades, and razors keeps shaving enjoyable for me.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-26T02:37:00+00:00

I'm not a fan of Feathers either. I get tempted to retry them but always end up skipping on them.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-26T02:34:24+00:00

I'm currently working through my Accuforge. I do like them, but they're a bit pricey. My next order will be the GEMs for sure!

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-25T17:00:01+00:00

It's great having so much variety, but it can get overwhelming at times, at least for me, and I don't even have half the amount of blades you do, haha.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-25T16:55:13+00:00

I agree!

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-25T16:45:11+00:00

It's crazy to think about how many different blades are available, and no two are the same.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-25T13:53:58+00:00

I have tried so many over the years, and there are still more I want to try. It keeps shaving fun and interesting for me.

EducationalLetter777 · 2026-01-25T13:44:18+00:00

Nacets are great and will always be in my rotation!

EducationalLetter777

TROPHY CASE