Hot edge?

[TEFL0N_D0N_81]

What makes an edge rinsed in hot water shave better than an edge rinsed in cold water?

If someone can explain scientifically why a hot razor shaves better than a cold one, I'm all ears.

 

[crimsonfalcon07]

My semi-educated guess would be that it has something to do with thermal expansion and contraction. When you're dealing with a razor edge, where the amount of metal is measured in tiny amounts, the heat from the water probably has a larger effect on the edge. Also, the water may affect your face, since hot water will keep your skin pores open, while cold keeps them shut. It's an interesting question. I kinda would have thought it would be the reverse.

 

[knarfeng]

Thank you Elliott. The original post was TMI.

To the OP, I dunno. I was not aware of any difference. But then I've had a full beard for about 40 years.

 

[jacketch]

After shaving with a straight for almost 20 years, I would have to say the difference is minuscule and not likely to matter.

 

[David Martin]

I've read in other forums about the benefits of just the opposite. Don't use hot water to rinse the razor, just tepid and this causes it to shave better, stay sharper and last longer. Which is the manner I've been using my razor with good success. DM