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Shaving with shaving soap: a step-by-step guide
Fewer aerosol cans, more ritual. How to use a solid shaving soap, how to build a creamy lather and which mistakes to avoid for a smooth, irritation-free shave.
Why solid shaving soap?
Shaving foam in a can is convenient, but it is mostly air and propellants and ends up as a can in the bin. A solid shaving soap lasts a long time, fits in a bowl and, whipped up with a brush, creates a dense lather that protects the skin and helps the blade glide. And it turns shaving into a small ritual.
What you need
- a shaving soap;
- a shaving brush (synthetic or natural bristles);
- a bowl or a mug;
- your razor – straight razor, safety razor or cartridge;
- hot water and a towel.
Shaving step by step
- Prepare your skin. Shave after a shower, or hold a hot towel on your face for a minute: it softens the hair.
- Wet the brush in hot water and shake it lightly.
- Load the soap. Swirl the brush on the surface of the soap for 20–30 seconds.
- Build the lather in the bowl with circular movements, adding a little water at a time, until it becomes creamy and glossy.
- Apply the lather to your face with the brush in small circles: it lifts the hair and prepares it for the cut.
- First pass with the grain, without pressing: let the blade do the work.
- For a closer shave, re-lather and do a second pass across the grain.
- Rinse with cold water and pat dry with the towel.
From our shop
Natural shaving soap – 100 g
- Handmade, plant-based
- Palm oil free
- Creamy, fine lather
- Fresh alpine fragrance
The most common mistakes
- Lather too watery: add water little by little.
- Pressing too hard: the main cause of irritation.
- Shaving against the grain on the first pass: better to get there gradually.
- Soap always wet: let it air-dry after use.
After shaving
Cold water, a clean towel and, if you like, a light balm. For the rest of the day: a natural deodorant that doesn’t sting after shaving.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use shaving soap without a brush?
Yes, you can wet the soap and rub it directly onto your damp face, then work up the lather with your fingers. With a brush, though, the lather is denser and more protective.
Is it suitable for sensitive skin?
A good lather, a sharp blade and little pressure are the most important rules for sensitive skin. If your skin is very reactive, try it on a small area first.
How long does a shaving soap last?
A very long time: one shave only needs a thin layer of soap. Let it dry between uses.
Can I use it with a disposable razor?
Of course. The lather works with any razor.
Slow shave, better day
Five minutes of ritual in the morning, a rich lather and no cans to throw away.
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