Your skin will get conditioned the more you shave, yes. If you are having a lot of irritation maybe stop at two good passes for a week or so.
I kind of like my lather on the thick side, especially if using a sharp blade. Thing is you have to shave faster or the lather will dry (unless of course you re-apply). You can add a couple of drops of hot water to the center of the brush at any time...or get a scuttle.
Thanks... Been thinking about trying a scuttle to keep the lather warm. I am usually a once a week shaver But I want to work on keeping a cleaner looking appearance even though I don't reall need to. My beard doesn't grow very fast or thick but it is pretty coarse hair.
If it feels pasty and drags somewhat when you shave, it's too dry. Sometimes it's hard to tell from photographs if the lather is OK. Everyone's taste varies somewhat. Personally, I prefer a thick lather and as I said earlier, it's in the ballpark. BTW, how much product did you use?