Received a tub of St. James ten days ago. On first use I immediately experienced skin irritation. I finished the shave, but my face was uncomfortable for an hour or so. Tried it again a few days later, and had some sensitivity on the second pass (red bumps that lasted for an hour or so). Figured I'd give the cream one more try. This morning I had a two pass shave with touch-ups, with absolutely no irritation. I can understand how some fragrance (or essential) oils can cause irritation. What intrigues me is that by the third use my face no longer became irritated. Not sure why that is, but I'm glad, as I really like the fragrance of this cream, and it performs extremely well.
TOBS for the most part do not agree with my face. Usually on the 3rd pass but still.....I have a little bit of the Eton College left and a brand new tub of the St.James. The St.James doesnt effect me though as well as the lemon-lime or rose but the Eton College does? I have pretty sensitive skin though.