A couple of problems with a straight
I've been shaving with a straight for just a couple of months now, and I have to say that I really enjoy the quality of the shave I'm getting, especially in the under the chin 'jowl' area. I do still have a couple of problem areas though, so I thought I'd ask for some tips.
My left hand dexterity doesn't seem to be improving, and I'm having a lot of trouble getting a good shave on my left side. My first pass (downward) is usually the best, but an upward pass is almost unthinkable due to lack of coordination with that hand. Also, my straight is a spike, so getting close to my ear on this side can be a bit ... disturbing. Some touchup with a DE is usually necessary on this side. I end up with a great smooth shave, but I feel like I'm cheating.
Problem number two, the tip of the chin. For everyday shaves I sometimes end up missing just little spots along the chin line that I need to touch up. For shaves when I might have missed a day or two and my beard is thicker, it makes it harder to start the stroke because I don't want to force it and lose my chin.