Break-in period for my skin?

Is there an initial period of time when you first begin shaving with straights that your skin somehow gets conditioned and/or used to the difference in the blade and how close you get? I just had my first shave today - while it was very close, my skin is a little tender and slightly red in color - should I expect this to get better as time goes on? Although I am sure it is different for eveybody, any estimates of how long this might take?

ps - will post a "1st shave" thread later when I have more time!

This should get better most definitely and took me about 2-3 weeks. I rarely get razor burn now. Matter of the fact posting to you is the closest I get --Mr. Razorburne

Justin

There's probably some adjustment that your skin makes, but IMO it's mostly the accumulation of lots of little improvements to your technique.

Keith,

I agree with Justin - took a few shaves before things settled down and now it's all good. Congrats on a successful first shave, BTW.

James.

What just a little red and tender? Why you lucky dog! When I did my first straight shave my face looked like an overcooked lobster and I couldn't touch my face for days.

As you continue to refine your technique and use ever less pressure on the blade things will improve quite a bit. And yes your skin does have to get used to the way the blade interacts with your face.