Thread: Should I make the change?

First off, welcome to SRP!

IMO, the canned goop you're using and the cartridge razors are by far the worst type of wet shaving system there is. The goop provides little protection or skin conditioning, and the cartridges do not allow you to carefully shave and accommodate your individual skin or beard type.

OTOH, using a boar/badger brush, higher quality soaps and a straight edge razor will address each of the problems that you mentioned and should alleviate the irritation you experience once you get the ball rolling. Most of the soaps available will provide a better cushion for shaving and condition your skin instead of drying out your face. Over time your face is going to start getting smoother simply because you'll be taking better care of it. Of course, you'll have to experiment with different products to find the best one for you, but the variety of options will likely hold the key so long as you look for it. The irritation that a cartridge razor causes can also be eliminated with a straight razor by using proper technique - a light touch and a angle of 30 degrees or less. Over time, you'll notice that you won't dread shaving, but enjoying the ritual and the way your skin feels after you shave.

For now, the first step would be to read the Beginner's Section in the Wiki. You'll need a shave ready razor, a strop, a brush and some soap at a minimum to get started on your switch to straight shaving. There are plenty of places with starter kits, or you can buy individually from different online places. You may also want to get some pre-shave oil and a good aftershave balm. Of course, a styptic stick should be purchased as well, and I like to use alum block during my aftershave routine as well, to close the pores and soothe my skin. All told, you'll spend a little bit now, but with proper care and maintenance, the razor, strop and brush might just last for lifetime, and the soaps and other products, probably a few months at least.

I hope you decide to make the plunge, and good luck!