Progress is a Sneaky Ba5tard
Just two weeks ago, I posted a thread out of desperation because my shaves seemed to be getting worse after my first couple weeks. And now, I am consistently getting acceptable shaves with two passes (WTG/XTG), and with no safety razor cleanup, very little burn (just neck a bit), and very infrequent nicks. My last 4 or 5 shaves have each been closer than the one before it. I don't want to get overly confident but things are starting to fall into place. The best thing I could have done was step back from the information overload that is the internet, and just focus on what my beard does, as well as what my hands are doing. The guillotine and scything strokes seemed to come naturally, and are definitely more effective. Also, I seem to have learned how I need to stretch and contort my skin, which I have realized is unique for everyone. Stropping is another thing that now feels natural. I was trying to force it in the beginning, thinking that pressure was needed to polish the edge. The weight of the blade really is the key. Lathering has improved too.
It is funny how you can read the same pieces of advice over and over, but they have to become real to you. Anyway, I am definitely hooked and don't foresee and reason to go back to my Mach 3. I know I still have a lot of progress to make, but I couldn't be happier with how well things are going at this point. I love this forum and I just wanted to share my excitement.
-ADAM
