This is my first shave story.

Yes, bloodied and sliced. waited 2 days now with growth through the scabs and contemplating a trip to the doctor to sew up my right index finger. (1/2'' long, very deep cut doesn't look like it's going to heal right)

Having appreciated a good shave, invested in a nice brush and such (Mach 3 turbo, good shave cream, etc), the next step is for the str8 edge. I purchased Prima Klang Dovo and lubed up well. Honed and stropped, passed the hair test.

First shave Sunday night (give me more time to learn), showered and started the shave. I have a goatee, so i thought shouldn't be all that tough not having to deal with nose, chin, etc. First couple swipes went okay, awkward trying to find the right angle, went to switch my grip and BOOM, blade sliced finger bad... bad. Lots of blood. Undeterred, I continued and wasn't getting 100% smooth going with the grain, so went sideways for a couple more swipes (i was craving the baby butt skin everyone talks about). I continued until scrapes and blood appeared.

Long story short, i finished the shave. A bit in shock because of the finger and face trauma. Wiped the Alum bar all over and then moisturizing aftershave.

Next morning, pain.. pain. I showered and lubed up face first with pure Vit. E, then a good moisturizing after shave. Went yesterday w/o shaving and today. I think, maybe the pain and scabs have subsided, but i am dreading the shave tomorrow.

Questions, please from a desparate noob.

- with the grain, only? Do i need a half or quarter hollow b/c i have a somewhat tough beard, so the Prima Klang isn't quite tough/stiff enough? No against the grain?

- Continue tomorrow with razor and bear it? I'm sure i'll get used to it, right?

- I have Lab Series shave cream with novacain type numbing agent. Should i use this next time to ease the pain?

- Strop during the shave? Okay if it's wet and gets the leather wet? Dry it first?

- any advice for neck? direction?

Thanks for any advice you have for me.

JJ