I did the same thing for a bit and fell into a slump after about a month of shaves...some good CroOx, and nice laps on the leather, and no distractions, and BBS once again. I think some of it may have to do with your beard getting used to the STR8 as well. Senior wise can jump in on this one. I used electrics a long time ago and it would take a few week b/f your beard get used to the razor and start shaving closer once again. I'm about 2 months in on STR8's and it's getting better every time...