Shaving Soap vs Shaving Cream: Which One is Best for You?

When it comes to achieving the perfect shave, your choice of shaving lather plays a pivotal role in the experience and results. Shaving soap and shaving cream are the two most common options, each offering its unique benefits and characteristics. But how do you know which one is right for you? In this post, we’ll break down the differences between shaving soap and shaving cream to help you make an informed decision for your grooming routine.

What is Shaving Soap?

Shaving soap is a solid product, typically housed in a plastic jar, glass jar or tin, that requires a bit of work to create a rich lather. The soap is often made from natural ingredients such as tallow, glycerin, butters and oils, providing a slick, cushiony layer for the razor to glide over. To use shaving soap, you need to wet a shaving brush, then swirl it on the soap to create the lather. The result is a thick, luxurious foam that helps soften your beard for a smooth shave.

Pros of Shaving Soap

1. Long-lasting: Shaving soap generally lasts longer than shaving cream. A small amount of soap can last for months, especially if you use a brush and don’t apply too much. Our shaving soap in particular is known for holding a great deal of water without breaking down. What this means to you is less product needed than most others.
2. Rich Lather: Shaving soaps create a denser lather, offering great lubrication and protection for a closer, smoother shave.
3. Classic Tradition: Shaving soap is often favored by traditional wet shavers, who appreciate the ritualistic nature of using a brush and soap.
4. Natural Ingredients: Many shaving soaps feature minimal, natural ingredients, making them a good choice for those with sensitive skin or those looking to avoid synthetic chemicals.
5. Cost-effective: A jar of shaving soap typically costs less in the long run compared to cream because it lasts much longer.

Cons of Shaving Soap

1. Learning Curve: For beginners, shaving soap can take a bit of time to master. You’ll need to perfect the technique of building lather and using the brush to get the best results.
2. Time-Consuming: The process of lathering with a brush and soap takes longer than simply squeezing cream from a tube. However, most people love this most about wet shaving and using a top shaving soap.

What is Shaving Cream?

Shaving cream is a more convenient and easier-to-use alternative to soap. It comes in a tub or tube and is typically already in a creamy, smooth consistency. Similar to shaving soaps, shaving creams often contains moisturizers like glycerin and skin loving oils, which provide excellent slip for the razor, making it a great option for a fast, comfortable shave. You can apply shaving cream with your hands or a brush for a rich lather.

Pros of Shaving Cream

1. Ease of Use: Shaving cream is incredibly simple to apply. You can squeeze it directly from the tube onto your fingers or into a bowl, then rub it on your face, or use a brush to create a thicker lather.
2. Moisturizing: Many shaving creams are packed with moisturizing ingredients, leaving your skin feeling soft and hydrated after shaving.
3. Quick: No need to spend time lathering or soaking the brush—shaving cream allows you to shave quickly and efficiently.
4. Variety of Options: Shaving creams come in a wide range of scents, from light and refreshing to rich and masculine, and are available in both high-end and budget-friendly options.
5. Great for Sensitive Skin: The extra moisturizing elements in shaving creams often help soothe irritated skin, which makes it a better choice for those with sensitive or dry skin.

Cons of Shaving Cream

1. May Require More Product Per Shave: Generally speaking, shaving creams don't last as long as shaving soaps. More product is required, as almost all manufactured shaving creams are watered down a bit to lower cost to produce. The exception is Ariana & Evans shaving creams. Ariana & Evans Shaving Creams are not watered down and requires half the amount of product compared to manufactured shaving creams. A&E's Shaving Creams are incredibly dense and right from the jar is thicker than all other creams. 
2. Chemical Additives: Some manufactured shaving creams, especially cheaper options, may contain skin drying chemicals, preservatives, and other synthetic ingredients that may irritate sensitive skin. Ariana & Evans Shaving Creams are handcrafted and all natural.

Shaving Soap vs Shaving Cream: Key Differences

1. Lathering Process: Shaving soap requires a shaving brush and a bit of effort to create a rich lather, while shaving cream can be applied directly with hands or a brush for a quicker application.
2. Consistency: Shaving soap is solid, while shaving cream is creamy soft.
3. Lifespan: Shaving soap tends to last longer because it is more concentrated, while shaving creams may run out faster.
4. Cost: Shaving soaps generally cost less in the long term due to their durability, while creams may be more expensive on a per-use basis.
5. Skin Benefits: Shaving creams, especially some manufactured creams can offer less moisturizing properties. Artisan made shaving creams which are not mass produced can be an exception.  Top Shaving soaps provide extra moisturizers and are formulated to soothe the skin, making them ideal for dry or sensitive skin.

Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between shaving soap and shaving cream comes down to your personal preferences and needs.

• Choose Shaving Soap if:

  • You enjoy the classic shaving experience and the ritual of using a brush.
  • You’re looking for a long-lasting product that’s cost-effective.
  • You don’t mind putting in a little extra time and effort to build a great lather.
  • You have sensitive skin and prefer minimal, natural ingredients.

• Choose Shaving Cream if:

  • You want a quick, easy, and convenient shave.
  • You are looking for a lower cost alternative.
  • You’re in a rush or want a fuss-free option without the need for a brush.
  • You prefer a more varied range of scents or formulations.

Ultimately, both shaving soap and shaving creams can provide a comfortable, close shave. The choice comes down to what fits best into your grooming routine and which method you find more enjoyable. Whichever you choose, both options can elevate your shaving experience to a whole new level of luxury. Happy shaving!