My razors are sharp enough and I may be overdoing it with my description of the 70% stuff, but I have zero issues with 55% stuff. As for the razors, they glide over the face even when going against the grain. I'm careful with my blade angles. I also apply plenty of cold water and let it dry on it's own while I clean/strop the blade before applying aftershave. The bottom line is that I have sensitive skin. I get a bit of a sting if I use an alcoholic aftershave even after shaving with an electric which doesn't exfoliate nearly as much as a straight.