I don't actually count the strokes. This is a rough estimate. The reason why I stated the numbers is because every other time I have asked honing related questions I have been asked to mention how many strokes/circles I have done. I will be re-honing this blade tonight, then hopefully trying it again tomorrow morning.
As for the soaps, I have been using the same soap for the past 3 months. Never had an issue. I have a curly beard, and know that it is prone to ingrowns more than straight beards. I have accepted this, it was more a surprise cause I havent had many since I switched to a SR until I tried out this Henckel.