Thanks for pointing me to that post. I typically use a blade about 4-5 times before I swap it out but I will heed your advice and throw in a fresh blade after 3. Thanks for helping me improve my shave.
Open comb (OC) was the answer for me. I have a heavy omni directional growth and my neck is particularly sensitive and prone to ingrown hairs. It is the reason I gave up the carts and canned goo. With a CC I was experiencing razor burn from multiple passes and too much pressure. I found that the OC helps lift the hair and I find a get a closer shave with less passes, resulting in little or no burn. Haven't had any issues since I made the switch to OC.
I am somewhat biased being the founder of the Brotherhood of the Open Comb....but the primary reason I have become such a evangelist for Open Comb razor is there ability to give smooth comfortable, efficient shaves with less irritation.
At 48 yrs old, I always had problems with bumps on my neck, irritation and even ingrown hairs. By using a OC with aa good quality sharp blade, I've eliminated those problems. I can also get by with less passes, which for me translates to less irritation.
I always recommend the Vintage 1930's Gillette NEW OC in either Long, or Short Comb as a great place to start....not overly aggressive, but will slice through your beard like a hot knife through butter.
In Modern razors, the Merkur 41C (also known as the 1904 OC) is a great value (under $30 new) and is a very mild razor...I would argue as mild as the much loved Edwin Jagger DE89 or a Vintage 1940's superspeed. The same head is used in a variety of models including the 11c (which is now discontinued, but can still be found) and other. Muhle also used that head on it 's 2010 R41 OC.
A good lather and prep is essential, and I would recommend face lathering if you have ingrown issues. A aspirin crushed up and mixed with some witch hazel will give some relief too.