What is Shaving Soap? A Guide to Its History, Use, Benefits, and Drawbacks
Shaving soap is a traditional grooming product used to create a lather that softens facial hair and lubricates the skin for a smoother shave. It has been a staple of men’s grooming for centuries and continues to be a favourite among traditional wet shavers. It is mostly used to aid straight and safety razor shaves, however, it can be used for any wet shave.
The History of Shaving Soap
Shaving has been a crucial part of personal grooming for centuries, and the development of shaving soap played a significant role in refining the experience. From its early origins to modern-day resurgence, it has stood the test of time, evolving alongside changes in hygiene practices, technology, and fashion.
Early Beginnings: The Precursors
Before the advent of dedicated shaving soaps, ancient civilizations used rudimentary methods to facilitate shaving. The earliest recorded evidence of shaving dates back to Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, where men used bronze or copper razors to remove facial hair. Oils and animal fats were commonly applied to the skin to soften hair and reduce irritation, serving as a primitive precursor to lathered soap.
The Middle Ages: The Birth of Soap-Based Shaving
By the Middle Ages, soap-making had become more refined. In Europe, soap production flourished, and bar soaps became widely available for hygiene and grooming purposes. While there wasn’t a specific soap formulated for shaving, many people used regular soap bars to create a lather for facial hair removal. The first true shaving soaps began appearing in the late medieval period, often crafted by local artisans using tallow (animal fat) and plant-based oils.
The 18th and 19th Centuries: The Golden Age
The 18th and 19th centuries marked a turning point for shaving soaps, as barbers and manufacturers started producing soaps specifically designed for shaving. These soaps were formulated to create a richer, longer-lasting lather than standard soap, providing a smoother shaving experience. During this period, shaving brushes became essential tools for wet shavers, as they helped generate a thick, creamy lather and lifted the hair for a closer shave.
In the early 19th century, English soap makers, including renowned brands such as Yardley and Pears, began marketing high-quality shaving soaps in the form of pucks or sticks. These soaps were often sold in elegant wooden or ceramic bowls, symbolizing sophistication and grooming excellence. Around the same time, advancements in razor technology, including the introduction of straight razors with hollow-ground blades, made shaving a more precise and enjoyable ritual.
The 20th Century: A Change in Shaving Culture
The early 20th century saw the widespread adoption of safety razors, pioneered by King C. Gillette. While this revolutionized personal shaving, the rise of canned shaving creams and foams in the 1950s led to a decline in traditional shaving soaps. These aerosol products offered convenience and eliminated the need for brushes and soap lathering, making them particularly popular in an increasingly fast-paced world.
Despite the decline in mainstream usage, traditional shaving soap remained a staple among dedicated wet shavers and barbers who appreciated its superior performance and luxurious feel. High-end brands such as Geo. F. Trumper, Truefitt & Hill, and D.R. Harris continued to produce premium shaving soaps, keeping the tradition alive.
The 21st Century: A Shaving Soap Renaissance
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of traditional wet shaving, driven by a growing appreciation for classic grooming rituals and high-quality, eco-friendly products. Many shaving enthusiasts have rediscovered the benefits of shaving soaps, favouring their rich lather, natural ingredients, and sustainability over mass-produced aerosol products.
Artisan soap makers have also emerged, creating handcrafted shaving soaps with unique scents and nourishing properties. These soaps often include premium ingredients such as shea butter, lanolin, and essential oils, offering both a luxurious and skin-friendly shaving experience. Online communities, forums, and social media have played a key role in this revival, with many men embracing the art of wet shaving as a mindful, enjoyable routine rather than a daily chore.
From its humble beginnings in ancient civilizations to its resurgence in the modern era, it has remained a timeless staple in men’s grooming. While technological advancements have introduced convenient alternatives, many still prefer the traditional ritual of lathering up with a brush and soap. Whether for its superior performance, rich history, or nostalgic charm, shaving soap continues to hold a cherished place in the world of grooming. For more information on the history of shaving soap, Zingariman have a great article on this.
How to Use Shaving Soap
This requires a few essential tools: a shaving brush, a shaving bowl (optional), and a razor. Here’s how to use it effectively:
- Soak the Brush – Wet a shaving brush with warm water to soften the bristles and help create a rich lather.
- Load the Brush – Swirl the brush over the shaving soap for about 20–30 seconds, allowing it to pick up a good amount of soap.
- Build the Lather – Either lather directly on the face or in a bowl by whipping the soap into a creamy consistency.
- Apply to the Face – Spread the lather evenly over the shaving area to prepare the skin and hair for shaving.
- Shave and Rinse – Use a sharp razor for shaving, then rinse off the remaining lather with warm water.
If you are looking for a full kit including bowl, brush and holder these are readily available. I love this Anbbas set!
Benefits of Shaving Soap
It offers several advantages over modern alternatives:
- Superior Lubrication – The rich lather provides excellent glide for the razor, reducing irritation and the risk of nicks.
- Moisturising Properties – Many shaving soaps contain natural ingredients such as glycerin, shea butter, and essential oils that nourish the skin.
- Long-Lasting – A single puck of shaving soap can last for months, making it cost-effective compared to aerosol foams and gels.
- Eco-Friendly – Unlike canned shaving creams, shaving soap typically comes in minimal or recyclable packaging, reducing environmental waste.
- Traditional Shaving Experience – Using a brush and soap provides a classic, almost ritualistic shaving experience that many enthusiasts enjoy.
Drawbacks of Shaving Soap
Despite its advantages, it has some downsides:
- Learning Curve – Beginners may find it challenging to create the perfect lather compared to the instant foam from canned products.
- Time-Consuming – Lathering with a brush takes more time than simply applying canned shaving cream.
- Storage and Maintenance – Shaving soap requires a proper storage container and a brush, which need to be cleaned and dried after each use.
- Hard Water Issues – Those with hard water may struggle to generate a thick lather, as mineral content can interfere with soap performance.
Popular Shaving Soap Brands
Proraso: They are a European brand known for their excellence in shaving products, many of their products are made in Italy.
Wilkinson Sword: Everyone knows Wilkinson Sword, they make a huge range of shaving products and are best known for their disposable range of razors.
Taylor of Old Bond Street: This brand has been running for nearly 200 years and boasts a store in Bond Street in London, this is where shaving meets luxury.
Final Thoughts on Shaving Soap
It remains a timeless choice for those who value a superior shaving experience. While it may take some practice to master, its benefits in lubrication, skin care, and sustainability make it a worthwhile addition to any grooming routine. Whether you’re a traditionalist or simply looking to elevate your shave, shaving soap offers a blend of heritage, quality, and practicality that stands the test of time.
You can find more information on shaving soap and other shaving lubrication on our site.