Subj: Shaving tips
From: Sysop
To: All

Dear All,

This was originally sent to Rachel in response to her question any shaving tips, but somehow never got into the forum. It works great... maybe some of you gals will be interested.

Here is a technique that I use. It's actually from an article in one of the north east's support group newsletters.

The basic concept is the "cold shave." shave - The preparation shrinks the skin allowing more of the hair to protrude. The bead is actually cut off below the skin line and when the skin expands again the hair tips end up below the surface. The equipment you'll need is:

1. Two small Flexi Cold packs, the things used for sports injuries
2. Alum (available at a pharmacy counter)
3. A good razor
4. A good shaving gel
5. A wash cloth

Shower first or soak your beard with warm soapy water to soften your beard. Fill the sink with cold water and mix in three to four tablespoons of alum. Soak your face several times with the cold water and alum mix using the wash cloth. Wrap the cold packs with the now wet wash cloth and hold it to your face and neck. Hold them on as long as you can comfortable stand it... 3 to 5 minutes is usually OK. Apply the shaving gel and shave suing short strokes and rinsing the razor often. You can do this twice if you want. Now rinse and pat dry.

Words from the editor: I have used this twice. I don't have the enthusiasm for it that the sysop did. It does work, it does dry your skin so a good moisturizer is a must. I had a real hard time finding alum. I had to special order it from a medical supply store. I got it the next day and it's cheap. Don't do this every day save it for a long day or a special event. I did this made a grocery store run with out using any foundation at all, just lips and eyes and a big smile and did fine. Of course they are used to me at store. Maybe not a great test.

Janyne