I have been reading these forums for awhile now, and am completely overwhelmed!  There are so many pre-shaves, lotions and post-shaves available and it seems every person out there claims something else is the best.  This just leads to massive confusion on what to give a try first.

So, I'll explain how I do things right now.  I have tried only one method so far.  I first start with a nice warm shower and tend to take it slowly, so I'm in there for 15-20 minutes usually.  After I get out, I dry my head off, then put some HeadSlick on my head, letting it have time to set in while I dry the rest of myself off.  I then shave, then rinse my head with cold water.  That's it.

I bought a HeadBlade Sport and tried that the first 5 days or so, and I just don't like it.  I can't explain why, really, I just dislike the mechanics of it.  So the last day or two I've been using a Gillette Fusion ProGlide Power.  I do like this razor very much, it seems to get much closer than the HBS, and I have never nicked my face or head (yet) with it, though nicked my head nearly every time with the HBS.  So, that is how I'm doing things now.

The problem I have, while the HeadSlick works well, I really don't like the menthol feeling, and I really really don't like how goopy and thick it is.  I have to keep an old toothbrush nearby when shaving because it just clogs the razor up and causes problems!

So, my question is, what should I start with?  Need recommendations for a pre-shave, shave, and post-shave.  I know this is purely preference, but what are two or three generally accepted "good places to start"?  Again, I am not looking for the definitive answer, just a general census of what you all would say would be the best things to try first.  Highest priority is something that will greatly reduce chances of any nicks, followed by something that isn't overly goopy so as not to gunk up the razor so bad I need a brush to clean it out.  Also, my preference is a shiny head, though I don't care either way if it's shiny or matte, as long as it's buttery smooth!

Jeff

I use the Headblade razors and as far as my experience, it will take you more than just 5 days to get used to it and maybe like it. You know best, but you must know that the HB has a learning curve. I would suggest, now that you already have one, to give it a month long shot. It is really unique and fun to use.
I do get a warm shower too, but don't dry my head, instead apply the shave gel directly. After I have a cold rinse and apply  Witch Hazel followed by an Aloe Vera Gel for moisturizing and to get a shiny dome.

I use a generic Nivea shave gel, Headslick is ok but any other cheaper foam or gel will also do the job.

hello and welcome.
I'm a basin shaver, so it's preety much as it's for the face.