My two pennies worth. What type of DE are you using? I have a FatBoy that just hates any blade I use in it; however, my go to razor is a Futur that has way more blade hanging out works great. I prefer to use Astra blades, but have used most of the rest with little or no difference in the shave, although the Feathers take a light touch. My thoughts are that maybe your being heavy handed ( to much pressure on the razor) or that the razor might be to aggressive. I must add that I do have a light beard, and very sensitive skin. I was also thinking along the lines of to many passes. If you are just starting off with a DE, they tend to be less forgiving then their 5 bladed offspring. You may want to settle for one or two light passes. As for the razor bumps and how to treat them. I found that shaving in cold water seems to help when I have them bad. I also use an Alum Block right after the shave to stem them before they happen, and for the razor burn I do tend to get along the neck line, Plain old Aloe Vera plant always works for me. Seriously, I hate to see anyone go back to the crud they sell now for razors. Experiment a little and I assure you once you figure out your sweet spot you'll wonder why you ever shaved the other way.