The learning curve is a long one. It may not be as steep because you've been dealing with manipulating a DE's angle to get a shave, but it's still most likely going to be an uphill learning curve. When I first started out, I doubted everything, the sharpness of the razor, my lather, my stropping...it was none of those...it was my technique. The lather and stropping aren't rocket science, but the pressure and angle take a while to get dialed in. Assuming you got your razor honed by someone reputable, it should have the capability to provide a smooth, effective shave...you just have to find your technique for getting it out of the blade. Granted each razor is different and comfort is subjective, but in my experience, a razor honed sharp by someone reputable will get you to an effective shave. I've never felt my face after a DE as opposed to a straight, so I can't comment on that one. I just rince the hair and lather off my blade when it gets full then go back to the face.