Everybody is different so what works for one won't necessarily work for another.
I shave everyday and probably do four passes most days. For me it's a matter of knowing what combinations of razor, blade, soap are easier on the skin. I think I know what you are talking about - not necessarily razor burn or rash but discomfort on the skin. I get this if I persist with an aggressive combination so if I shave with an aggressive razor then next day I'll probably go to a razor that I know will be easier on my skin.
I find that straight razors are easiest on my skin and get the least irritation from them. With a DE if I want to take it easier on my skin I might go to a mild razor like the Feather AS-D2 with a Feather blade.
Obviously there are lots of variables that you need to optimise to suit you, such as pre shave, hot or cold water, which soaps suit you and offer the most protection, and what blades suit what razors. I like soap with a clay included with an aggressive razor as I find it provides more protection. I find Voskhod blades (as an example) rough on my skin so will use them when my skin is in good nick. I also find I avoid irritation by sticking to sharp (fresh) blades i.e. usually around 3 shaves per blade for DE, maybe 5 shaves per SE and 9 shaves straight razor, remembering this is what works for me and may be 'rubbish' for others. You're looking for what works for you.
I agree with others that it's not worth chasing BBS every shave, for me it's usually a compromise between chasing smooth and avoiding discomfort.