[neor]

DE razors have a level of aggressiveness. A Muhle R41 for example is a fantastic razor, but known to be hugely aggressive.

A R89 is much less agressieve and will be more comfortable to shave with if you have sensitive skin or are prone to nicks and cuts.

Lots of people talk about how to achieve the greatest smoothness, don’t go for that if you regularly have razor burn. Just go with the grain and that’s it, no across or against the grain.

[fodkodrasz]

THIS! My face doesn't like electric razors, but safety razors applied in in beard growth direction are fine, and give reasonably smooth shave.

Also make sure to clean that razor (Of course I did so for the electric one I had, a pretty advanced Phillips one with great reviews), and use sharp blades. Typically changing blades after 5 shaves is a good practice, though a bit of a luxury. Razors themselves and blades both have different level of agressiveness, you might not find the best fit for the first attempt.

I have good experience with Feather, some Lord and Voskhod Teflon blades. Some others didn't work well, but settled on these as soon as I found one readily available and of a good fit for my skin.

I also have a Müle R89 razor that is said to be not agressive, and indeed it did work out well for me! Had some others before, cheaper ones (actualy the Mühle one is not expensive, just not dirt cheap, it will easily serve you your whole life), some were hard on my skin, with the exception of some very basic Lord one was pretty ok. Cannot name the model, bought it while travelling and was sold for a few bucks in a bazaar.

Also shave after shower, or use other techniques to soften your facial hair. (though most are really cumbersome, like using steamed towels) Shaving soap of cream alone is barely adequate in my opinion.

[jmcphers]

Check out Rockwell razors. They come with a set of plates that let you choose the aggressiveness of the razor, which is very helpful, especially when you're first starting out.