New Hampshire Barber Practice Exam

What safety precautions should be taken when using a straight razor?

1. Always use a blunt blade

2. Maintain skin tension and follow the contours of the face with a sharp blade

3. Only use on dry skin

4. Use an electric razor instead

The correct answer is: Maintain skin tension and follow the contours of the face with a sharp blade

When using a straight razor, maintaining skin tension while following the contours of the face with a sharp blade is crucial for achieving a clean shave and minimizing the risk of cuts or nicks. A sharp blade allows for a smoother glide over the skin, reducing the likelihood of dragging, which can cause irritation or injury. Skin tension is important as it helps to create a flat surface for the razor to glide over, ensuring that the blade can effectively cut the hair without pulling at the skin. Using a blunt blade, on the other hand, is not advisable as it can lead to more force being required to shave, increasing the chance of accidental cuts or skin irritation. Straight razors should ideally be used on skin that is prepped and hydrated, typically following a warm shave, rather than only on dry skin, which could increase the risk of irritation. Although there are alternatives such as electric razors, the technique and mastery of a straight razor are integral aspects of traditional barbering that many professionals choose to develop.