When I became more environmentally conscious many years ago, I decided to switch to a safety razor to reduce plastic waste. I landed on a reputable safety razor with a 'mild' angle, something that would be good for sensitive skin. Even with a good shaving soap, I found that I would regularly still get some discomfort from razor burn, despite learning a solid technique.
Enter: the Henson. This was touted as a 'new' design of safety razor that fully supported the blade, making it particularly well suited for sensitive skin, and much harder to nick yourself.
Well, I've been using this thing for a few months now, and I can honestly say the marketing isn't an exaggeration, it's been a game-changer for me.
It really is MUCH harder to nick myself with this, to the point where I can press it against my skin firmly like a disposable, and I still don't get irritation. It's one of the most pleasant shaving experiences I've had, and I can heartily recommend one for anyone who wants a truly mild safety razor.
Its made of machined aluminum, and built to tight tolerances. I anticipate I'll be using this sucker quite literally for the rest of my life.
Though do bear in mind, If you have a thick beard or non-sensitive skin, the mild henson might not be ideal for you. As an example I still use my old razor with it's more exposed blade to shave my head, as this henson gets clogged up far too quickly for that application (unless the hair is already really short). But for the face with light facial hair? Perfection.
I've used the Merkur HD for years, then got a bad case of Razor Acquisition Syndrome. My Rockwell 6S I used for years before deciding to trey a Henson. I have never looked back. I thought I'd miss the adjustability, but it just does the job that damned well.
They say it's because the razor locks the blade down so thoroughly, and I'm inclined to agree. I'd been getting some nicks, and then (finally!) got rid of the accumulated gack on the razor with some dilute vinegar and a toothbrush. Bam. Back to incredibly easy, smooth shaves.
As a few have remarked, it's certainly still possible to nick yourself with a Henson, but it doesn't require more than ordinary care, I'd say. I use the "mid aggressive" one as my whiskers are fairly intense, so can't speak to the mild version. I know I would not bother with the titanium extra-aggressive model if I decided to upgrade the material.
That said, Rockwell is also excellent, so unless you just want to try out another, I don't think you need to change if you're happy. I will say it has been the endpoint for me after quite a few years of experimenting and probably 8 or 9 different razors.
Thanks so much for conveying your experience. Exactly what I was after.
I'm quite happy with my Rockwell but that won't stop me from trying something else. I'll give the Henson a go.