Update: a sharp razor helps
I just got a new (to me) razor honed by hi_bud. I didn't realize what sharp was, but this makes a great difference. Now that I've learned not to use any pressure, this is what the shave should have been.
The razor makes a "rasping" noise, but it doesn't pull. In fact, I can barely feel it at all. I'm a little scared of it though: it's a spike point, very hollow, with an impossibly slim bevel. I know I can trust it though, so I will master it.
After this shave, I had a thought: I generally try to use just part of the blade because I think if I use the whole thing I'll lose track of a corner and cut myself. But actually, I want as much blade down as I can so the load is spread out. The more blade I use, the lighter the pressure will be and the closer the shave.
Now I see why it takes so long to learn this.
Still using the peppermint soap. I will update when Mama Bear's arrives.
-- Aubrey