I have a VanDyke, but I keep my cheeks and neck clean with an electric razor.

For years, when I was young and broke (now I'm older and a little less broke) I could not use an electric. My beard stubble always broke down the screens, dulled the blades, and generally made them unusuable in two weeks or less.

During that time I used a Gillete Sensor Excel, but I shaved right after the shower and did not use foam or cream of any sort. Of course, my skin was tough enough I could dry shave, except that dulled the blade in a single shave.

Now I use an electric, sorry cant remember the brand but for the first time I spent a decent amount of money on it. Get an electric in the $100.00 range and you should get good results.

Still, the absolutely BEST shave is when I have my barber Tony do the whole works. Hot towels, hot cream, and a straight razor, with some Bay Rum aftershave... wonderful.