I too am a new str8 shaver who started using Proraso pre/post in the white container. I am starting to get very close and comfortable shaves every day. I think it is a combination of the Proraso, me building better lathers, and me getting experience with the razor. In any case I am very happy with the results I am getting, so I am not going to change anything for awhile. I also enjoy the menthol in the Proraso.