Obviously since I'm posting here I'm new to the world of straight shaving. To put my toes in the water I got myself a shavette, and I've been using it consistently for the past three weeks. Overall it's been a good experience, and having read a lot of shavette vs. straight debates I've been sure to be careful and take into account some of the differences.

Shaving for me has always been every 2-3 days at most because it seems like my skin is just so sensitive. My facial hair doesn't grow that fast (nor is it very thick) but what I do have is very coarse. If I shave every 3-4 days I can usually go against the grain and get a super smooth shave, but if I try it any earlier I cut myself to shreds (same prep routine - shower, lather, etc.). With the shavette I've found I can shave every other day (never been possible before), so I know I'm getting a lot of things right. However, going ATG or XTG can result in a good bit of razor burn. It will definitely be smooth, but boy is it painful.

I know my technique has a long way to develop over time, and I've corrected some errors with my lather to make the shavette glide more smoothly. However, it just seems like my skin will not allow multiple passes without a good bit of pain. For the seasoned vets out there with sensitive skin, are there some whose skin just won't tolerate ATG or XTG shaving at all? I'm trying to determine if it's really just a technique issue on my part (which will get better over time) or if there really are people out there whose skin is just that sensitive.

Thanks in advance everyone!

FT