[LWJ]

I too use a Mercur safety razor. Best blades so far are Astra. I used Wilkensen prior but the Astras are so much sharper. I couldn't read the font but memory says made in Russia for Gilette. (total WAG there). There is a minor quality control issue in that some blades have been "wonky." But most are amazing. My wife picked up the Mercur the other day cleaning the shower and cut herself. She was shocked with how sharp it was. By comparison? The yellow BIC's get used when I travel. They feel like a dull machete. They pull, hack, drag. Astra's neatly cut. Like a surgical tool.

My routine? Get my face drenched in hot water in the shower. Soap up beard. Apply a touch of conditioner for lubricity to soaped up beard. Shave away in shower. There is some skill here as I can't see anything. But, the benefits are so very worth it. No break outs. Great shave.

It took me decades to figure this out. Try it.