The two biggest scams foisted on the American consumer over the years have been non-stick cookware and multi-blade disposable razors.
Disposable razors don’t shave any closer than a traditional single-blade safety razor, nor do they prevent cuts compared to safety razors, either.
It’s a scam — and an expensive one.
Buy yourself a quality weighted safety razor like a Merkur. It’s a lifetime purchase. Add to that a pack of Japanese steel Feather blades at about $20 for 50. That pack will last you over a year, maybe two. Buy an apothecary shaving mug and a cake of shave soap. Colonel Conk makes very good soap, though there are others. Add to that a quality boar bristle shaving brush, and with that kit, you’re set for a lifetime of cheap, close, quality shaving.
Fill your shaving mug with hot water to let the soap soften while you wash your face with soap and warm water. Empty the water from the mug and whip up a thick lather with the brush and apply it to your face. Shave with the grain, not against it. If you need a closer shave, lather and repeat. Rinse with clean water, followed by a cold splash to close your pores. A styptic pen can stop any nicks you might get, but those will actually be fewer than with a disposable razor.
If you’re really adventurous, you can try learning to use a straight razor. That becomes an event and ritual and is only for hardcore types. I tried it once and ended up looking like I was in a knife fight when I was finished. Still, it’s a cool ritual to learn.
Now don’t get me started on non-stick cookware…
I briefly used a straight razor some fifty years ago, but went back to the safety razor. The straight razor was too much trouble, all things considered.
I love these threads...always learn something.