A straight razor is an open blade on a handle and was used before the invention of the safety razor. Using one involves focusing to reduce the risk of cuts. Hydrate your face with hot water first and apply shaving soap with a brush. Hold the blade at an angle against your skin and move in short, controlled strokes. You’ll need to pass over your face two or three times and sharpen the blade before your next shave. Once you’ve mastered the straight razor, you’ll be able to give yourself a much closer shave than you’d ever get with a safety razor.