Sometimes, a little throwback is just what you need: from old-timey cars to nostalgic music, a blast from the past can hit the spot. For me, one of the most satisfying throwbacks has been incorporating shaving soap into my routine—the kind our grandfathers used. While shaving creams and foams have become more popular, I’ve found that the best shaving soaps offer an unbeatable old-school charm and performance.
Shaving soap isn’t as common these days, especially among younger men who might have never tried it. But after switching to shaving soap, I can tell you it brings an experience that’s far more satisfying than you might expect. It adds a layer of tradition and craftsmanship to a daily routine and leaves you feeling like you’re part of something classic.
That’s why I’ve put together this list—because if you haven’t discovered the magic of shaving soap yet, it’s time to give it a try. My top pick is Proraso’s Shaving Soap for Sensitive Skin. It’s packed with natural ingredients, creates a thick, luxurious lather, and smells amazing. But I know that not everyone’s needs are the same, so I’ve also included a variety of options to suit different skin types and preferences.
For example, if you’re after the ultimate masculine scent, you’ve got to check out Taylor of Old Bond Street’s Sandalwood Shaving Soap. Its rich fragrance paired with top-tier lubrication makes it a standout choice.
And we’ll dive into more than just product recommendations: I’ll break down the key differences between shaving soaps and creams and give you a detailed guide on how to get the perfect lather for your best shave yet.
But first, let’s talk about the six most important things to keep in mind when choosing a shaving soap.
Before You Buy: 9 Things to Consider When Choosing Shaving Soap
Choosing the right shaving soap can be a bit tricky because, unlike canned shaving foam, it’s something that requires a bit of thought. Here’s what I’ve learned to look for over the years.
Table of Contents
1. What type of soap do you want?
The way a soap is made directly affects how it performs. There are three main types:
- Triple-Milled Soap: This soap is grated, melted, and then pressed, which removes extra water and makes the soap hard and dense. It produces a rich, creamy lather and tends to last the longest. But, as you’d expect, it’s usually on the pricier side.
- Croap: As the name suggests, this is a mix between a cream and a soap. It’s soft and usually has more moisture. If you’re looking for something easier to lather with plenty of moisturizing oils, croap is a great option.
- Semi-Hard Soap: A middle ground between triple-milled and croap. It’s less dense and doesn’t last as long, but it’s often more affordable.
2. What are its ingredients?
Ingredients matter, especially for your skin. Natural ingredients are usually your best bet, and some of my favorite soaps focus on simplicity and quality. The base of your shaving soap will generally fall into one of three categories:
- Tallow-Based: This is the traditional choice and gives you a super creamy lather. It’s made from animal fat, so if you’re into that classic, old-world feel, tallow-based soap is for you.
- Oil-Based: These soaps use oils like coconut, olive, or palm. They’re a solid ethical alternative to tallow, especially for those who prefer plant-based products.
- Glycerin-Based: Glycerin is known for its moisturizing properties. If you’ve got sensitive or dry skin, glycerin-based soaps are usually the most hydrating option.
3. Do you like the scent?
Scent plays a big role in the overall experience. Some shaving soaps are nearly scent-free, while others offer long-lasting fragrances that can stick around all day. Personally, I love soaps with a subtle fragrance that doesn’t clash with my aftershave or cologne. Take note of how long a scent lasts and if it complements your usual grooming products.
4. Does it match your skin type?
Your skin type matters a lot when choosing shaving soap. If your skin is sensitive, look for hypoallergenic or natural options to avoid irritation. If your skin tends to be dry, soaps that offer a moisturizing lather will make a huge difference. For those with oily skin, you might want to steer clear of soaps that are too moisturizing, as they could leave your skin feeling greasy.
5. Is it easy to use with a brush or bowl?
Most shaving soaps work best when you use a brush, which is essential for lifting the hairs and getting a close shave. Make sure the soap you choose is easy to load onto your brush and quickly creates a thick lather. Some soaps are harder to lather than others, but the best ones will whip up nicely without too much effort.
6. What kind of lather does it produce?
Not all lathers are created equal. The thickness and texture of the lather can vary depending on the soap, and different men prefer different types of lather. Some like a thicker, creamier texture, while others prefer a lighter, airier feel. For me, the perfect lather is one that’s rich and offers plenty of cushioning between my skin and the razor, making the shave feel smoother and less irritating.
7. What size do you want?
Shaving soaps come in different sizes, and it’s worth considering how long a puck will last. Larger soaps tend to offer better value over time, while smaller soaps can be more convenient for travel.
8. Is the brand well-known?
Reputation matters when it comes to shaving products. Brands like Taylor of Old Bond Street or Proraso have been around for decades, and there’s a reason why—they’ve perfected their formulas over time. I usually stick with trusted brands, but don’t be afraid to try a lesser-known one if the ingredients and reviews look good.
9. Is it good value?
Lastly, price isn’t everything, but value is. Some of the more expensive soaps might last longer or offer a better shaving experience. You don’t always have to go for the cheapest option—just make sure you’re getting quality for what you’re spending.
The 6 Best Shaving Soaps
1. Proraso Shaving Soap for Sensitive Skin
Shaving doesn’t have to be the same old boring routine, especially when you’ve got the right tools, like quality razors and top-tier shaving soap. With the best products, even your morning shave can become a luxurious experience. But if you’ve got sensitive skin, I know how shaving can sometimes feel like a battle, leaving you irritated and razor-burned. That’s why I love Proraso’s Shaving Soap for Sensitive Skin—it’s a total game-changer.
This soap is specifically designed for sensitive skin, making it the best option I’ve found for avoiding irritation. The formula is enriched with oatmeal and green tea, which are soothing ingredients that help reduce inflammation and protect the skin. Plus, it creates a rich, creamy lather that feels amazing and provides excellent lubrication for a smooth shave.
Proraso has been around since 1948, and they’ve been perfecting their shaving products for decades. Their natural ingredients, like botanical extracts and oils, are free from parabens, mineral oils, and SLS, which means they protect and nourish your skin without stripping away its natural oils. One more thing I love about this soap? The light, refreshing scent of lime and apple—it’s just strong enough without being overpowering.
Pros:
- Great for sensitive skin
- Mild, pleasant scent
- Natural ingredients
Cons:
- Some users feel the lather could be thicker
Bottom Line: If sensitive skin has made your morning shave a struggle, this soap is a lifesaver. Pair it with the right razor, and you’ll notice a huge improvement in your shaving experience.
2. Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Soap
Taylor of Old Bond Street is a brand with a long history of grooming excellence, and their Sandalwood Shaving Soap is a top-tier product that truly delivers. Established in London back in 1854, this brand has a reputation for quality, and this soap embodies that heritage.
The texture is rich and creamy, almost like a lotion, providing a superb foundation for your razor to glide smoothly over your skin. It’s packed with essential oils that soften your beard and skin, ensuring a close, comfortable shave. If you’re a fan of masculine scents, you’ll love the sandalwood fragrance—it’s earthy, with just the right hint of cedar and a touch of rosemary, jasmine, rose, and lavender.
One of the standout features of this soap is the wooden shaving bowl it comes in. It’s reusable and adds a touch of old-school elegance to your shaving routine. And although it’s slightly pricier than other shaving soaps, a little goes a long way, making it a sound investment.
Pros:
- Superior lubricating qualities
- Rich, masculine sandalwood scent
- Creamy, lotion-like lather
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than some other shave soaps
Bottom Line: If you’re serious about wet shaving, Taylor of Old Bond Street’s Sandalwood Shaving Soap is a must-try. The quality is unmatched, and it delivers a top-notch shaving experience.
3. Van Der Hagen Men’s Luxury Scented Soap
When it comes to shaving soap, scent isn’t the most important feature—lather, lubrication, and how your skin feels afterward are key. But Van Der Hagen’s Men’s Luxury Scented Soap hits all the right notes, combining a great scent with top performance.
This soap is made with a blend of cocoa butter, mango butter, and shea butter, which not only smell amazing but also moisturize your skin, making it perfect for men with dry or sensitive skin. The added glycerin enhances lubrication, giving you a smooth, irritation-free shave.
One thing I noticed right away is how quickly this soap lathers—your brush will be loaded in under a minute. And while the lather might not be as thick as some higher-end soaps, it still provides a close, clean shave. For the price (under $10), it’s a steal.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Pleasant scent
- Lathers quickly
Cons:
- Lather is not as thick as other premium options
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a quality shaving soap that won’t break the bank, Van Der Hagen Men’s Luxury Scented Soap is an excellent choice. It offers great value and performs well, especially for its price point.
4. The Art of Shaving Shaving Soap Set
The Art of Shaving is a luxury brand that takes shaving seriously. Their Shaving Soap Set is one of the best I’ve tried, combining rich ingredients like glycerin, coconut oil, and corn oil to moisturize and condition your skin for a smoother shave.
Glycerin and coconut oil work together to soften your beard and skin, allowing the razor to glide effortlessly and reducing the chances of irritation. Corn oil is packed with fatty acids and antioxidants, which keep your skin healthy and youthful while helping with wound healing and inflammation.
The lather this soap creates is rich and creamy, which improves the razor’s glide, and the sandalwood scent is a perfect balance—not too overpowering, but definitely noticeable. Plus, the soap comes in a beautifully crafted teak bowl, which is not only functional but also adds a luxurious touch to your bathroom.
Pros:
- Beautiful teak bowl
- Rich hydration and lather
- Lovely sandalwood scent
Cons:
- A bit on the expensive side for its size
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a premium shaving soap that delivers a top-notch shaving experience, The Art of Shaving is well worth the investment. It’s a treat for both your skin and your senses.
5. Maison Lambert Shaving Soap
There’s a lot to love about Maison Lambert’s Shaving Soap, starting with the simplicity of the jar it comes in. It’s so easy to load your shaving brush, and you can tell right away that this is a product made with care. But the packaging is just the beginning of what makes this soap so special.
First off, this is a vegan product—handmade using traditional French soap-making techniques and completely free of harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances. The scent? It comes from an amazing blend of essential oils like tea tree, rosemary, and lavender, giving it a soft, minty, and incredibly fresh aroma that I found really invigorating.
The lather is where this soap truly shines. It’s rich and luxurious but not overly thick, and it stays firm on your skin without running down your face or fading too quickly. It provides fantastic protection during your shave, especially if you have sensitive skin, as the natural ingredients help moisturize and soothe.
With shea butter, cocoa butter, and argan oil in the mix, this soap ensures that your skin retains its natural moisture, leaving it smooth and refreshed without any greasy residue. If you have a beard, you’ll also appreciate how this soap softens your facial hair, prepping it perfectly for grooming.
Pros:
- Packed with natural, skin-friendly ingredients like shea butter, tea tree oil, and aloe vera
- Creates a luxurious lather without being overly thick
- Moisturizes and protects skin all day
Cons:
- The jar could have a more premium design, but that’s a minor issue
Bottom Line: Maison Lambert’s Shaving Soap is a fantastic option, especially for those with sensitive skin or those looking for a vegan product. It’s a superb all-rounder, great for both shaving and beard care.
6. Barrister and Mann Bay Rum Shaving Soap
If you’re into classic grooming products with a modern twist, Barrister and Mann Bay Rum Shaving Soap is a must-try. This brand specializes in bringing back older forms of grooming goods, and they’ve really nailed the traditional shaving experience with their Bay Rum soap.
The scent alone is enough to transport you back in time—it’s rich, masculine, and full of that classic barbershop vibe. What I love about this soap is that it pairs well with any razor, from your classic straight razor to the more modern options, giving you the flexibility to shave however you prefer.
Barrister and Mann also offer a variety of other scents, from the traditional English-inspired Cheshire to the spicy Reserve Spice, which gives a modern take on barbershop scents. While the spicier scents might be a bit strong for some, I personally loved them—especially if you’re looking for something bold.
Another big plus is how easy it is to build a lather with this soap. Some soaps can take forever to work up, but Barrister and Mann lathers quickly and provides a thick cushion for your shave.
Pros:
- Works well with any type of razor
- Multiple unique, masculine scents to choose from
- Produces a rich lather with ease
Cons:
- Some may find the spicier scents too strong
Bottom Line: For a true throwback shaving experience with modern performance, Barrister and Mann Bay Rum Shaving Soap is a great option. With a range of scents and superb lather, it’s a winner for any wet shaving enthusiast.
How We Chose the Best Shaving Soaps
Finding the best shaving soaps is no easy task, especially with so many great options out there. But after testing a variety of products and doing some serious research, I’ve narrowed down the list to what I believe are the top choices.
When evaluating these soaps, I looked at several key factors:
- Quality: How well does the soap lather? Does it provide the right balance of slickness and protection?
- Ingredients: Natural, skin-friendly ingredients always get bonus points in my book.
- Price: I compared the cost against the soap’s longevity and quality to make sure you’re getting value for your money.
- Ease of Use: Some soaps take forever to build a decent lather, while others make it quick and easy. I favored the ones that make your shaving routine smoother.
- Scent: While scent isn’t the most important factor, it’s still something to consider. A good soap should smell great without being overwhelming.
After weighing all these factors, I’m confident that the soaps on this list will meet your shaving needs and provide a top-notch grooming experience.
Building an Epic Lather: Here’s How
Now that you’ve chosen your shaving soap, let’s talk about building the perfect lather. A good lather is key to a smooth, comfortable shave, and it’s easier to achieve than you might think. Whether you’re using a shaving bowl or building lather directly on your face, here’s how to do it right.
Using a Shaving Bowl
1. Soak your brush
Start by filling your bowl with hot water. Let your shaving brush soak for a minute or two, or hold it under hot running water. This softens the bristles and preps them for a good lather.
2. Prep your soap
While your brush is soaking, soften your shaving soap by adding a few drops of hot water to it.
3. Swirl the brush on the soap
Once your brush is ready, swirl it on the soap for about 10-15 seconds to load it up.
4. Lather in the bowl
After loading the brush, swirl it in your bowl for about a minute. The lather should start thickening up. If it’s too thick, add a few drops of water. If it’s too thin, swirl it on the soap again.
Building a lather on your face
1. Soak your brush
Again, start by soaking your brush in hot water.
2. Prep the soap:
Soften the soap with a few drops of water.
3. Load the brush:
Swirl your brush on the soap for 10-15 seconds.
4. Lather on your face:
Using circular motions, swirl the brush directly on your face for about 30 seconds. Adjust the consistency by adding more soap or water as needed.
Shaving Soap vs. Shaving Cream – What’s the Difference?
While both shaving soap and shaving cream are designed to help you achieve a smooth shave, they’re quite different in how they work and feel.
- Shaving Soap: Shaving soap has been around for centuries and usually comes in a hard puck form. It requires a bit more effort to create a lather, but once you get it right, the results are excellent. You’ll need a shaving brush to build the lather, and it’s perfect for those who want that traditional, luxurious shaving experience.
- Shaving Cream: Shaving cream, on the other hand, is much easier to use, especially for beginners. It doesn’t require as much work to lather, and it can be applied directly to your face without a brush. While shaving cream provides a good shave, it often lacks the same level of protection and slickness that you get from a quality shaving soap.
Conclusion
I hope this guide helps you find the perfect shaving soap for your routine. Each soap listed here brings something special to the table, from rich, creamy lathers to natural, soothing ingredients. As always, I’d love to hear your feedback—whether you’ve tried these products or have your own favorite that didn’t make the list. Until next time, happy shaving!
