I tentatively gave this product ago after receiving it as a gift and reading some reviews. As with all T&D products, the ingredients are of a high standard and great on the skin. The cream itself is appealing not only to the nose but the eyes with a pearlescent sheen. Now this is where it got a touch hairy, the downfall that everyone seems to make note is the lather. Initially it was a little tricky, but once I had the right mixture it lathered beautifully and I had no issues at all. I used a badger and mug and got excellent results. The shave was incredibly smooth and left my skin feeling great. This was after a week's growth of reasonable coarseness. No irritation or burn insight. With a little experimentation and practice with lathering techniques you will have no trouble at all. This product performs very well and I high recommend it.