Question:
The Art of Shaving full size kit is on my Christmas list this year. I have trouble with the occasional bump/ingrown hairs, and have been using the various 3- and 4-blade vibrating razors with little success.
I have been using Nivea shave gel and ASB. Can I expect a big improvement by going with the Art of Shaving line?

Answer:
As was recommended to me when I had a shaving question, try these guys http://www.badgerandblade.com/
They are in love with shaving and know tons!

Answer:
Thanks Mochi227. I checked out the site and Art of Shaving is held in high regard, as is Trumper's. I got the kit earlier than I thought (birthday gift yesterday!). I love the shaving oil - it's thick and smells great - but I didn't think it made much of a difference in smoothness.
The shave cream was excellent! Just a dollop and a badger brush and I was able to do face, neck, AND head. I'm definitely sold on their shave cream.
This is a big improvement over Nivea gel!
The balm, ehhh, I've been using Nivea sensitive skin and I think it's a keeper for the price...

Answer:
I really like The Art of Shaving products and am giving the lavender set to a friend for Christmas. I use the unsented hypo-allegenic version myself, although I think I could do the lavender as well. I have used their skin care products as well, all with fine results. Some may quibble about the prices, however....
While AOS is expensive enough, I have recently sent for similarly named products from a new purveyor: The Gentleman's Refinery, set up by a former Trufitt & Hill barber in Las Vegas. I believe the gentleman's name is Perry Gastis, but not sure at the moment. Anyway, his products have been very highly reviewed as well, and as someone who has come to actually enjoy the shaving experience thanks to AOS, I thought I would just take a look and see what else is around.
Joe