How to Get More Life From Your Disposable Razor

I've tried them all, including the old fashion razor and strap, but the nagging part of shaving is working your way to bellying up to the sink to perform the art.  I became a disposable blade user about 15 years ago and never looked back.

There are many brands to choose from, but I would recommend a minimum of twin blade. If you try to go cheap, you'll find your mug full of red dotted toilet paper. Not a good way to start the day. You intend to have that clean shaven look. Personally, I use the "Gillette Custom Plus 3" and have for quite some time. You may have your own favorite and I am not attempting to get you to change as your good quality razor can work wonders for you.

When I first decided to use disposable razor blades, I just chose a pack that was wrapped in flashy packaging. I don't remember what brand it was, but I worked it like any other style razor I used in the past. I found myself tossing them about every third shave once they began to pull and drag on my face. I also noticed the accumulation of wet compacted beard in between the close row of blades. So I found myself doing quite a bit of tapping, which actually led me to the secret of how I get at least ten shaves per disposable razor.

For me technique is the key to a closer shave and a longer life to my disposable razors. Admittedly, I shave about four times a week and I find that I get a closer shave by not shaving each day. But that's me.

My Technique of How I Get Ten or More Shaves Per Disposable Razor

1.) Wait for the hot water before you splash your face with it. It opens the pores and softens the beard. Fill the bottom of the sink with about three inches of that hot water.

2.) I use the old cheap "Barbasol Original" and it lasts me for many months. I tried the menthol type, but it burns if my shave is too close. Press out a lump of foam and drop it on top of the hot water and roll it over, then apply it before it runs too thin. This will warm up the shaving cream and additionally soften your beard. Now you're ready.

3.) Shake the blade under the sink water to warm the cold steel and remove any chance of old debris.

4.) Here is the Key: Always position the blade either horizontally or vertically, then pull at a forty five degree angle. What happens is you don't meet the beard head on, you are actually shaving it at an angle while keeping the blade head straight up or down. Caution: Do not attempt to go at too extreme an angle as you will put a slice in your pretty face.

5.) Two Strokes and tap: That's the rule I abide by and it goes along with not allowing your beard to gum up between the blades. This technique not only gives me a closer shave, but it cuts my shaving time down. Two strokes and tapping may seem a bit much, but once it becomes habit you will enjoy a quicker and closer shave. You will also save on wear and tear of the blades. Now it's time to rinse your face.

Shaving commercials on TV show you a man with shaving cream on his face. Then he strokes a razor across it revealing a smooth and close shave. What they don't reveal is: He shaved just before the commercial. Pretty tricky stuff eh, but it leads me to my final tip.

6.) After your face is rinsed, rub your hand over your entire face and feel for any left over beard. If some is noticed, quickly slap on a small amount of cream and follow technique number(4). Be careful you don't overdo it as you can remove skin and end up with red face in those areas.

After a few times you will get the hang of this technique. At any rate give this process a try and in the meantime, happy shaving.