This just came back to my feed and omg the throw back of when I had graduated college and I would watch all his videos so I could get a better shave since I had to shave every day for work.
I'm a woman and just happened to stumble upon this video one day. I've had problems with shaving my legs since I started. I had tried every cartridge razor from the 2 blade disposables all the way up to the Gillette Fusion Proglide razor. I also tried any and all shaving creams and gels I could find. It didn't matter if they were regular or ultra sensitive I always got horrible razor burn. When I saw this video I decided as a last resort to try wet shaving. I went to Target and bought the Van Der Hagen kit and razor just to get something to try. I have to say I'm going to toss the Gillette Fusion razor because the safety razor and shave soap along with the Nivea Men Post Shave Balm has almost entirely cleared up my razor burn problem in only one shave! I will be upgrading to better gear. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction!
that's z awesome ,I bought the same one to begin!! and I got the post shave. loyal loreal balm with some sun screen in it, Feels good doesn't It! :) I want to try new products
I absolutely agree with Mikes Naturals being top notch soap. Since my coconut refill arrived last week I don't want to stop using it. No burning sensation, easy to lather, slick, no dissipating and great post shave.
Hey Nick, Thanks for taking the time to make these videos. I'm 46 and I will be switching over to safety razors, Merkur 34C to be exact, thanks to you. Have been watching them and learning a lot. Keep up the good work. Having said that, I have useful advice for you, I noticed how the camera was going in and out of focus. Next time, just focus on the outlet right by you, which is basically at the same distance from the camera as you are, then switch over to manual focus and then point the camera to where you want it and you'll always be in focus and the camera won't work against you moving around. I'm sure you know this, but just incase.
Been shaving with a safety razor for about a year now. Until now had just been using edge shave gel and barborsol. Just ordered myself a wet shave kit from Italian Barber, got a brush, new razor, a soap, after shave and 40 blades, can't wait to try it out
Hi Nick, I like "Van Der Hagen" shave soaps. I bought a shave set with the mug, soap and brush at Walmart for less then $25.00. The scent is mild and the soap lathers very well. It also lasts a long time. It is also nice and "slick " and I got a very close shave with my Merkur razor. The price is also right at less then $ 5.00 for a refill "puck" . After watching your video reviews , I think I will sample some of the ones you mentioned for comparison.
Nick: I took your recommendations and have used Barrister & Mann, Mike’s Natural Soaps, Stirling Soap, Cella and Arko. Each one is great to use. I also like the RazoRock line as well. I also went with the Omega 10066 Boar Brush and really like it. Thanks for the advice. Nick Z (from Boston)
Hey Nick. I had no idea that people ask you everyday about this topic. I know you don't mind doing these kind of videos, but I'm sorry that I was one of those many subscribers that added to the onslaught of your favorite soap inquiries. :). Once again thank you for the great info you provide. Michael.
I have most of your list. I don't have Sterling, Cella or Arco. Mama Bear Soaps is high on my list as is Shaving Yeti and Gingers Garden. This wet shaving thing all started for me when my wife gave me an Art of Shaving kit a year ago as a gift. Still think their lavender cream is great. Thanks for another great topic focused video Nick.
Have you ever tried the Van Der Hagen soap? It's the first soap I've ever used and I've never gotten any bad shaves, even back when I was using Gillette cartridge razors. It's a softer soap, but it's still moderately hard so it's easy to load and lather and the lather is SUPER thick and slick.
I have only used barrister and Mann because my girlfriend used to work for them. They are actually manufactured in a small town in central NY now where the owners are from originally. Good soaps 👍going to try some new brands for sure though.
The Shea 3 butter bar soap is the slickest shaving product I’ve ever used, it’s amazing stuff. I use it mostly for head shaving in the shower but it’s such great aroma too.
I normally prefer non-tallow soaps, but Cella is just fantastic. The slickness and protection are top notch and you can get a great lather even in areas with hard water. Overall its a winner.
Hi Nick and viewers. My favourite shave soap hands down is Imperial Barber Grade shave soap. It is glycerin based and scentless. Boy it lathers great and slick. A bit expensive but not too bad as you get a 6 ounce puck for about 18.00.
Nick, I've been wet shaving for about a month. My neck is very sensitive and my hair grows in multiple directions below my jaw. No matter what I do, I get severe razor burn on my neck. I've used pre-shave balm, different soaps, and blades. Any suggestions on how to prevent this?
hi Nick , just want to say that i love your videos , i have learned a lot from you , are you planning to make a video about your best shaving soaps ? your recent shaving soaps ?
Nick, thanks for your video. It seems that we often have similar opinions on soaps. I had never heard of stirling and just ordered the barbershop, bay rum, and ben franklin. Im sure they will be wonderful. Next month I need to talk my wife into letting me get some synergy. Will probably try the cavendish because its like nothing I currently have.
great review Nick. Going to try the Stirling and Barrister and Mann. I just tried the Arko and it really does a great job. Really enjoy your reviews. keep up the good work.
HI NICK, good video on the craft shaving soaps,alot of good stuff and being here in Canada it is great when you can find someone who ships here at a reasonable rate! thanks
I love Tabac, Mitchells, Pre de Provence and Cade are great !! - also almost anything called "brushless" I have always loved . Barbasol brushless was great. Stephans Stay Smooth Conditioning Shave Cream is wonderful. I just got Clubman "Classic Barber Shave Cream" and really like it.
I have extremely sensitive skin on my neck, get massive irritation. I have recently switched over to a safety razor and the improvement is amazing. Are you supposed to necessarily use shaving soap with a safety razor? I've been using RSVP shaving creme, but it's really really expensive. I want to try shaving soap, looking for something that will not cause irritation and is affordable. What is the most gentle shaving soap out there, in your opinion?
This is my favorite: Merkur Progress long or Gillette Pro Glide Feather razor blade Badger brush Floris JF shave soap I did also used other products like Penhaligion´s shave cream and Alvarez Gómez shave cream. They are excellent products too!
Thank you for the reviews. Its a hard task to formulate a good shave soap. My dad has been wet shaving for a long time & asked me to create one for him. He's my toughest customer. I'm still tweaking it. Hope you check out my shop when its ready.
I'm trying the popular Prorasso shaving creme that comes in a tube. Trying to face & mug lather the stuff with a boar brush & I kind of suck at it haha. I can get it going pretty alright but I can still see skin after I apply it. I've only done it 3 or 4 times now so I'm sure it's just more practice needed.
A lot of good soaps, a little surprised that RazoRock didn't make your list but as you say, there are so many good soaps it's very hard to come up with a top 5 or 10 list!
Hey love your videos. I'm looking to try new shave soaps breccias I've been wet shaving for a year now and only really used van der Hagen and colonel conk. Do you think you could give me a list of what to try first? I'm really only looking for sweeter smelling stuff like coconut, cherry, vanilla, not necessarily those things, but something that would probably be loaded with sugar if it was food. Thanks man and keep it up.
Van Der Hagen Scented Luxury Shave Soap is wonderful, available at Wal Mart and cheap and really good. For the price a fantastic choice for most days !!
Haha thanks man, but that was my first soap and this is an old post. Check out bluebell soaps of you want a unique artisan soap (the peppermint is good)
Evan Rogers mentioned Kiss My Face Lime and at 11oz for $5.00 it is really not bad at all. Also, I know you prefer the Merkur 34C over the Edwin Jagger DE89bl. But if you read Amazon reviews, both get about 85% 5 and 4 stars and, as expected, 13% 1, 2, and 3 star ratings. In the end, I bought a Feather AS-D2 @ $170 - but it is spectacular. I guess you can't please everybody all the time. And I use Mike's soaps (lime and coconut) and the 3 T's from England. I just prefer creams to soaps. I am looking into Shaver Heaven, Ginger;s Garden Enigma and the new Catie's Bubbles Le Marcha Du Rasage. What do you think? With smiles, Dr. Bob
Hey Nick. Thank you for your videos! I am learning a lot with them! I have a badger brush but have not been using a good soap or cream. I know, that is where I need to start. I have heard good things about Razorock XXX. Do you recommend it? How would you rate it?
nice to see your current favs looking forward to see what cracks into your lineup in the future your $3/oz limit is your personal choice but not one i'm able to follow and have the variety you enjoy in the US shipping to Canada puts a different $ number on things and there are so many more soaps to try i've used and enjoyed Cella, PPF and Stirling of these, i like Sterling best my current top performers list includes QCS, Strop Shoppe, Panna Crema and Sterling but i only judge on my personal performance not price i believe all have lanolin in the versions i own so maybe its the post shave face feel of lanolin i like best i'll have to buy some Mike's at some point in the future because of your stellar reviews thanks
I really need to try QCS and and Strop S. Bummer about being in Canada - our cheaper shipping rates here definitely allow me to order more. Thanks for sharing!
Great list Nick! I gotta try Stirling next, im interested in getting their Rose scent. You ever gonna post a review on Nivea's cream? Try out Arko Max Comfort cream, youll love the scent, its a great performer, and cheap to boot.
I will be reviewing the Nivea cream soon - things have been a bit busy and I haven't had the time to film it yet. But so far it has been an excellent cream for me
nick shaves Awesome! Cant wait to see the review for it, ive been curious about it for a while. Keep up the great work, your videos are an excellent resource for wet shavers.
Hi, just started wet shaving. Unfortunately in India we don't find good products. Proraso soap took almost 1 month for the delivery. Having said that have you tried trigodon shaving soap from India? would love to listen your views on this.
My all time favorite is C. O. Bigelow premium shave cream with eucalyptus oil. I like to use it with my Turkish horse hair brush. It's a little stiffer I use just a fat raisin size dollop. Great scent, slick shave. I do bowl lather with it.
I bought the Proraso Green with my first straight razor and it's set to get here tomorrow, what are your thoughts on it? I personally after looking at the Cella will be going for that next.
hi I was totally agree with your mass product choice (celle , arko), I was whet shaver from the middle on the 80' (ya I'm a little bit older than you loool) at that time we don't have internet and the only soap aviable in my aera was william ouach , cella and arko is fast to load easy lather and give super protection. I watched all your soap review and I am agree with you all the time , keep going you make a good job ;)
Love your shaves and your banter, I am from the uk and I started de shaving with an Edwin jagger DE89, I would love to send you a cologne called blue stratos!
Thanks for all of the great videos Nick. Have you ever tried St Charles Pipe Tobacco? If so, what did you think of it? BTW, I LOVE Arko sticks. I bought two cases of it. It mixes well with soaps or creams that have a great smell but dont necessarily lather well, such as Lightfoot's classic pine.
Hi Nick, Great review of soaps & creams. Very helpful - can you clarify on the first soap mentioned - couldn't read the jar and it sounds like "bear stearns mann, but could not find that brand.
I agree with all your picks (except Arko) but Im surprised you haven't mentioned Razorock in your artisan group! Their XXX-t (newest version with tallow) is incredible!
I would love to see you review The Holy Black shave soap. Its one of my favorites. Their gunpowder spice and sandalwood smoke scents are so unique and great smelling. How you consider and enjoy.
awesome review! I think i have actually been one of those individuals who have asked you what your fav is... so new question, out of the first few that you mentioned being that they are the smaller company's and seem to use more natural ingredients and i like that, but what one would you recommend for some one with sensitive skin ? and side note where did you get your cup/mug you soak your brush in?
I got the mug at an art fair by a potter - I love it! Had it for over 10 years. For sensitive skin - pretty much any of the artisan soapmakers products would be good - they tend to have less preservatives
Hey Nick I use the same safety razor as you but I'm using the merkur platinum blades. I feel like these are really not that sharp, have you used these types and also what's your favorite blade and shaving cream to use on a daily basis?
Gustavo Miranda Not sure. I'm wondering the same thing. I've got a sample of Cella that's two years old I used once until yesterday. It looked questionable but was still pliable. I tried it anyway , this time putting some of it in a barber shop mug to lather. It was nearly BBS. It did want to disapate somewhat as I shaved but it was so slick it didn't slow me down. Excellent cushion, slickness, and protection. No irritation, nicks, or cuts. I'm still wondering the question, but as far as Cella is concerned it's still tops.
I know this is a few years back, but for European soaps you left out the best. Pannacrema nuavia, MdC, ABC, Tabula Rasa, Tabac, Haslinger. I could name a lot more.
I looked at your Palmolive review and your Cella review closely, and to me at least it seemed as you were more excited about the Plamolive, so I would think you will include the Palmolive in your favorites. Plus I am using Palmolive now, and it is my favorite for sure. Someone advice me to try Cella and that they perform pretty similar. Is that true?
Another rep for Synergy. I would love to hear your thoughts on WM Neumann, as I love their products. Their Heartwood scent is one of the best I have ever come across (and their AS are out of control).
nick shaves I have heard mixed things about their soaps, but never had an issue. Their AS, though, are absolutely out of control. They're at a bit of a premium, but I find myself buying more and more for my den.
+rog duran The biggest difference I've noticed is that creams are usually easier to lather but they don't offer the lubrication that soaps do. Soap also usually lasts longer.
Soaps are generally harder than creams. Your standard "soap" is about as hard as stick butter after you take it out of the fridge for a minute or so, hard enough to keep shape but if you press on it, it will leave an indentation. Shave pucks are considered soaps but are extremely solid like a regular bar of soap but usually even harder. Creams are soft like lotion or toothpaste and generally build up a lather easier and faster. Soaps usually can tolerate water being added to them throughout the shave to get the best lather possible. Creams usually have a limit to how much water they can hold and it's generally a lot less than soaps and become runny on the face very fast. One is not better than the other. All about personal preference.
Soaps always either come in a plastic containers or in puck form. Creams can come in the same tubs or containers soaps are but can also be in squeeze containers like toothpaste. Soaps you have to load a brush with directly from the containers by swirling around your brush for a minute or so. Creams you can just dip your brush in and start face or bowl lathering. I hope this helped
Not so much.I did tested some of the products and they various a lot! The best shave soap are Floris and they are easy to whip up to nice cream. While shave cream is more thicker. It all depends about the water too. Make the badger brush wet and squeeze out. Use hot water to yours face too. I use Floris JF shave soap. They are expensive but excellent to shave with it! Expensive shave soap like Floris do work.
Hey, Nick! I love your videos-- I find them very helpful in finding new products and developing my technique. That being said, I love the Speedmaster! :) New or vintage?
Hi - We have made soap for over 16 years, and we are formulating some shaving soaps for men.Although I have made soaps for so many years now I have always made artisan cold process soaps for the body. Since we are trying to get the formula perfect we need someone to help us in reviewing the shaving soap and giving some honest constructive criticism. Please contact us, if you would be willing to review and give your honest opinion. It would be much appreciated.
Do yourself a favor and don’t buy any shaving soaps on amazon. I highly recommend you buy them from west coast shaving or maggards where it’s artisan soaps. Artisan soaps are usually have better ingredients and and are high quality. To answer your question, no I’ve not used them personally.
Don't know if there's something I'm missing, but what's going on with Synergy/HowToGrowAMoustache? There's a handful of places that seem to be selling their pucks, and it doesn't look like quantities are getting re-stocked. Are they Phoenix now, or what?
There was a bit of a controversy regarding Synergy (at least, as far as controversy goes in the artisan shaving soap world). Specifically, it seems there were some rather deceptive marketing tactics employed by HTGAM, the maker of Synergy. As a result, many shops have chosen to distance themselves from that company. In lieu of the controversy, Synergy rebranded themselves as Phoenix Accoutrements. Some people were turned off by the aforementioned deceptive practices, others couldn't care less. To each their own.
Hey Nick your videos are awesome it helps me a lot and very informal. I have the cella, arko, Taylor grapefruit,and proraso tube. Proraso and cellars the best for me cause it's a thick cream. You should do a review on DERBY, And the other CHEAP tube CREAMS, you might be surprise, I ordered a whole lot of variety. COAST.
hey Nick is the Synergy like a hard soap or soft to the touch, by the Looks Of it It seems like a cream type of soap. by the way Interesting soaps I like to apply a tiny bit of shave butter that I got from target, and I soap up , I'm not exactly sure which brand of soap it is but It has a windmill logo on the bottom No scent It's Ok I'd like to try New ones like the texas One you mentioned in this video Cool stuff.
Van Der Hagen shave soap is the one with the windmill on it. I get it at Wal Mart - it is great and Cheap. It's a great every day soap because of the price !!
htsnstr21 If you use a cheese grater on it and let it air out for two weeks, the smell will dissipate. Then you can add whatever essential oils you like to make a custom soap that works well!.
I can't get the American soaps here in the U.K. But I have tried cella and arko. Cella is pure quality soap but arko, smells good and is very cheap but it gave me some horrible razor burn because I couldn't get a good lather with it
My rotation is Mike's (unscented, his scents were too strong for me) Sterling (I think Naked and smooth) which does have a slight scent very pleasant. and Harris Naturals again one with a very light scent. Strong scents bug me as do strong ingredients like menthol of vetiver which you feel I just like smooth and clean.
This just came back to my feed and omg the throw back of when I had graduated college and I would watch all his videos so I could get a better shave since I had to shave every day for work.
I'm a woman and just happened to stumble upon this video one day. I've had problems with shaving my legs since I started. I had tried every cartridge razor from the 2 blade disposables all the way up to the Gillette Fusion Proglide razor. I also tried any and all shaving creams and gels I could find. It didn't matter if they were regular or ultra sensitive I always got horrible razor burn. When I saw this video I decided as a last resort to try wet shaving. I went to Target and bought the Van Der Hagen kit and razor just to get something to try. I have to say I'm going to toss the Gillette Fusion razor because the safety razor and shave soap along with the Nivea Men Post Shave Balm has almost entirely cleared up my razor burn problem in only one shave! I will be upgrading to better gear. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction!
that's z awesome ,I bought the same one to begin!! and I got the post shave. loyal loreal balm with some sun screen in it, Feels good doesn't It! :) I want to try new products
I wish I'd tried it sooner! It would have saved me a lot of suffering!
+MaraJade13243 ahh You have to suffer before you Get it right huh those burns hurt! good thing you got it down
You using a brush as well?
I absolutely agree with Mikes Naturals being top notch soap. Since my coconut refill arrived last week I don't want to stop using it. No burning sensation, easy to lather, slick, no dissipating and great post shave.
Hey Nick, Thanks for taking the time to make these videos. I'm 46 and I will be switching over to safety razors, Merkur 34C to be exact, thanks to you. Have been watching them and learning a lot. Keep up the good work.
Having said that, I have useful advice for you, I noticed how the camera was going in and out of focus. Next time, just focus on the outlet right by you, which is basically at the same distance from the camera as you are, then switch over to manual focus and then point the camera to where you want it and you'll always be in focus and the camera won't work against you moving around. I'm sure you know this, but just incase.
Been shaving with a safety razor for about a year now. Until now had just been using edge shave gel and barborsol. Just ordered myself a wet shave kit from Italian Barber, got a brush, new razor, a soap, after shave and 40 blades, can't wait to try it out
I always have Cella around... ! Compact enough for travel and love the scent... Its a classic
Hi Nick, I like "Van Der Hagen" shave soaps. I bought a shave set with the mug, soap and brush at Walmart for less then $25.00. The scent is mild and the soap lathers very well. It also lasts a long time. It is also nice and "slick " and I got a very close shave with my Merkur razor. The price is also right at less then $ 5.00 for a refill "puck" . After watching your video reviews , I think I will sample some of the ones you mentioned for comparison.
Nick: I took your recommendations and have used Barrister & Mann,
Mike’s Natural Soaps, Stirling Soap, Cella and Arko. Each one is great to use. I also like the RazoRock line as well. I also went with the Omega 10066 Boar Brush and really like it.
Thanks for the advice.
Nick Z (from Boston)
Hey Nick. I had no idea that people ask you everyday about this topic. I know you don't mind doing these kind of videos, but I'm sorry that I was one of those many subscribers that added to the onslaught of your favorite soap inquiries. :). Once again thank you for the great info you provide.
Michael.
No worries! I love making videos to share. Hope it helped
Palmolive is a great budget choice. Other than that Mitchell's Wool Fat, TOBS and Col. Conk are great and there are great artisan soaps over here too.
I have most of your list. I don't have Sterling, Cella or Arco. Mama Bear Soaps is high on my list as is Shaving Yeti and Gingers Garden. This wet shaving thing all started for me when my wife gave me an Art of Shaving kit a year ago as a gift. Still think their lavender cream is great. Thanks for another great topic focused video Nick.
Hi Allen! I really need to try Mama Bears and Yeti - people keep mentioning them
Have you ever tried the Van Der Hagen soap? It's the first soap I've ever used and I've never gotten any bad shaves, even back when I was using Gillette cartridge razors. It's a softer soap, but it's still moderately hard so it's easy to load and lather and the lather is SUPER thick and slick.
TheSaxAppeal As far as cheap soaps go, Van der Hagen luxury is the best thing you can get
I have only used barrister and Mann because my girlfriend used to work for them. They are actually manufactured in a small town in central NY now where the owners are from originally. Good soaps 👍going to try some new brands for sure though.
Well, I just ordered both Arko and Cella based on your reviews and this pick. I'm excited to see how they will compare to my other soaps and creams.
Hope they work well! I get great results with both
The Shea 3 butter bar soap is the slickest shaving product I’ve ever used, it’s amazing stuff. I use it mostly for head shaving in the shower but it’s such great aroma too.
What's the actual name of this particular soap? Also, is it a shaving soap or a regular bar soap?
I normally prefer non-tallow soaps, but Cella is just fantastic. The slickness and protection are top notch and you can get a great lather even in areas with hard water. Overall its a winner.
Hi Nick and viewers. My favourite shave soap hands down is Imperial Barber Grade shave soap. It is glycerin based and scentless. Boy it lathers great and slick. A bit expensive but not too bad as you get a 6 ounce puck for about 18.00.
Yes, I too prefer soaps over creams. Great video! Very helpful
Nick,
I've been wet shaving for about a month. My neck is very sensitive and my hair grows in multiple directions below my jaw. No matter what I do, I get severe razor burn on my neck. I've used pre-shave balm, different soaps, and blades. Any suggestions on how to prevent this?
It would be nice to note if they're tallow based or otherwise. Great video.
hi Nick , just want to say that i love your videos , i have learned a lot from you , are you planning to make a video about your best shaving soaps ? your recent shaving soaps ?
Ogalala has recently moved up to my favorite soap maker. I received a sampler from them and have enjoyed all of their sents.
Nick, thanks for your video. It seems that we often have similar opinions on soaps. I had never heard of stirling and just ordered the barbershop, bay rum, and ben franklin. Im sure they will be wonderful. Next month I need to talk my wife into letting me get some synergy. Will probably try the cavendish because its like nothing I currently have.
great review Nick. Going to try the Stirling and Barrister and Mann. I just tried the Arko and it really does a great job. Really enjoy your reviews. keep up the good work.
Thanks! I appreciate the support. There are just so many amazing soaps out there
Nick, I am sure you like Cade and Pre de Provence ( about my favorites ).
HI NICK,
good video on the craft shaving soaps,alot of good stuff and being here in Canada it is great when you can find someone who ships here at a reasonable rate! thanks
I love Tabac, Mitchells, Pre de Provence and Cade are great !! - also almost anything called "brushless" I have always loved . Barbasol brushless was great. Stephans Stay Smooth Conditioning Shave Cream is wonderful. I just got Clubman "Classic Barber Shave Cream" and really like it.
I have extremely sensitive skin on my neck, get massive irritation. I have recently switched over to a safety razor and the improvement is amazing. Are you supposed to necessarily use shaving soap with a safety razor? I've been using RSVP shaving creme, but it's really really expensive. I want to try shaving soap, looking for something that will not cause irritation and is affordable. What is the most gentle shaving soap out there, in your opinion?
Great choices! I've also been hearing some good things about Catie's Bubbles, Tiki, and Dapper Dragon lately.
Thanks! Yeah - I always here about Tiki - I need to place an order to review
This is my favorite:
Merkur Progress long or Gillette Pro Glide
Feather razor blade
Badger brush
Floris JF shave soap
I did also used other products like Penhaligion´s shave cream and Alvarez Gómez shave cream. They are excellent products too!
Thank you for the reviews. Its a hard task to formulate a good shave soap. My dad has been wet shaving for a long time & asked me to create one for him. He's my toughest customer. I'm still tweaking it. Hope you check out my shop when its ready.
I'm trying the popular Prorasso shaving creme that comes in a tube. Trying to face & mug lather the stuff with a boar brush & I kind of suck at it haha. I can get it going pretty alright but I can still see skin after I apply it. I've only done it 3 or 4 times now so I'm sure it's just more practice needed.
Reef Point soaps have changed my life, they are all so great!
A lot of good soaps, a little surprised that RazoRock didn't make your list but as you say, there are so many good soaps it's very hard to come up with a top 5 or 10 list!
It really is hard to rank these top performers. Though RR is amazing - coconut based soaps don't get extremely slick in my city here
Oh, forgot to mention, I ordered a few pucks from stirling because of your review. Thanks
Excellent video and great recommendations Nick.
Hey love your videos. I'm looking to try new shave soaps breccias I've been wet shaving for a year now and only really used van der Hagen and colonel conk. Do you think you could give me a list of what to try first? I'm really only looking for sweeter smelling stuff like coconut, cherry, vanilla, not necessarily those things, but something that would probably be loaded with sugar if it was food. Thanks man and keep it up.
Van Der Hagen Scented Luxury Shave Soap is wonderful, available at Wal Mart and cheap and really good. For the price a fantastic choice for most days !!
Haha thanks man, but that was my first soap and this is an old post. Check out bluebell soaps of you want a unique artisan soap (the peppermint is good)
I like proraso cream and soap and Palmolive classic cream. Among my favorites.
Can you make a video of the best shaving brushes
Evan Rogers mentioned Kiss My Face Lime and at 11oz for $5.00 it is really not bad at all. Also, I know you prefer the Merkur 34C over the Edwin Jagger DE89bl. But if you read Amazon reviews, both get about 85% 5 and 4 stars and, as expected, 13% 1, 2, and 3 star ratings. In the end, I bought a Feather AS-D2 @ $170 - but it is spectacular. I guess you can't please everybody all the time. And I use Mike's soaps (lime and coconut) and the 3 T's from England. I just prefer creams to soaps. I am looking into Shaver Heaven, Ginger;s Garden Enigma and the new Catie's Bubbles Le Marcha Du Rasage. What do you think? With smiles, Dr. Bob
Hey Nick. Thank you for your videos! I am learning a lot with them! I have a badger brush but have not been using a good soap or cream. I know, that is where I need to start. I have heard good things about Razorock XXX. Do you recommend it? How would you rate it?
nice to see your current favs
looking forward to see what cracks into your lineup in the future
your $3/oz limit is your personal choice but not one i'm able to follow and have the variety you enjoy in the US
shipping to Canada puts a different $ number on things and there are so many more soaps to try
i've used and enjoyed Cella, PPF and Stirling
of these, i like Sterling best
my current top performers list includes QCS, Strop Shoppe, Panna Crema and Sterling but i only judge on my personal performance not price
i believe all have lanolin in the versions i own so maybe its the post shave face feel of lanolin i like best
i'll have to buy some Mike's at some point in the future because of your stellar reviews
thanks
I really need to try QCS and and Strop S. Bummer about being in Canada - our cheaper shipping rates here definitely allow me to order more. Thanks for sharing!
I've heard Martin de Candre is the best, wouldn't doubt it. Not sure I wanna sell a Picasso to by shave cream !!! LOL
Great list Nick! I gotta try Stirling next, im interested in getting their Rose scent. You ever gonna post a review on Nivea's cream? Try out Arko Max Comfort cream, youll love the scent, its a great performer, and cheap to boot.
I will be reviewing the Nivea cream soon - things have been a bit busy and I haven't had the time to film it yet. But so far it has been an excellent cream for me
nick shaves
Awesome! Cant wait to see the review for it, ive been curious about it for a while. Keep up the great work, your videos are an excellent resource for wet shavers.
I like you selections. i would have to put RazoRock in there. I here Tiki soap are great, but I haven't tried them
Thanks! I keep hearing great things about Tiki - I will need to try it. RR is amazing - my city water here decreases the slickness of it though
Hi, just started wet shaving. Unfortunately in India we don't find good products. Proraso soap took almost 1 month for the delivery. Having said that have you tried trigodon shaving soap from India? would love to listen your views on this.
My all time favorite is C. O. Bigelow premium shave cream with eucalyptus oil. I like to use it with my Turkish horse hair brush. It's a little stiffer I use just a fat raisin size dollop. Great scent, slick shave. I do bowl lather with it.
You do know that the CO Bigelow stuff is Proraso green right?
Yes, it says that on the tube. But C.O. Bigelow less expensive.
True...its less expensive but not by much, unless you buy it in volume at Bath & Body Works (I have 3 of those tubes myself).
I bought the Proraso Green with my first straight razor and it's set to get here tomorrow, what are your thoughts on it? I personally after looking at the Cella will be going for that next.
hi I was totally agree with your mass product choice (celle , arko), I was whet shaver from the middle on the 80' (ya I'm a little bit older than you loool) at that time we don't have internet and the only soap aviable in my aera was william ouach , cella and arko is fast to load easy lather and give super protection. I watched all your soap review and I am agree with you all the time , keep going you make a good job ;)
Damn. Didn't know barrister and Mann was made in Boston. I live in Boston, do they have a shop?
Love your shaves and your banter, I am from the uk and I started de shaving with an Edwin jagger DE89, I would love to send you a cologne called blue stratos!
Thanks for all of the great videos Nick. Have you ever tried St Charles Pipe Tobacco? If so, what did you think of it? BTW, I LOVE Arko sticks. I bought two cases of it. It mixes well with soaps or creams that have a great smell but dont necessarily lather well, such as Lightfoot's classic pine.
Hi Nick,
Great review of soaps & creams. Very helpful - can you clarify on the first soap mentioned - couldn't read the jar and it sounds like "bear stearns mann, but could not find that brand.
I agree with all your picks (except Arko) but Im surprised you haven't mentioned Razorock in your artisan group!
Their XXX-t (newest version with tallow) is incredible!
I really like RR! But coconut based soaps tend to lose some of their slickness in my city water and just don't hold up for me
I would love to see you review The Holy Black shave soap. Its one of my favorites. Their gunpowder spice and sandalwood smoke scents are so unique and great smelling. How you consider and enjoy.
I know you use TOBS Sandalwood creme soap. Guess it didn't make it. I like it a lot, bought it on your recommendation Tnx. Nelson
What about Catie's Bubbles Nick?
awesome review! I think i have actually been one of those individuals who have asked you what your fav is... so new question, out of the first few that you mentioned being that they are the smaller company's and seem to use more natural ingredients and i like that, but what one would you recommend for some one with sensitive skin ? and side note where did you get your cup/mug you soak your brush in?
I got the mug at an art fair by a potter - I love it! Had it for over 10 years. For sensitive skin - pretty much any of the artisan soapmakers products would be good - they tend to have less preservatives
Great video! Have you tried Haslinger soaps? They look cool and cheap with great scents!
Thanks! I haven't tried Haslinger yet - its on my wish list
I've seen that blades grim is slick and has a nice cushion
Hey Nick I use the same safety razor as you but I'm using the merkur platinum blades. I feel like these are really not that sharp, have you used these types and also what's your favorite blade and shaving cream to use on a daily basis?
Great video. I was surprised that your international list was so short.
Was it because of your price restrictions?
Ever try La Toja - it is great, love the scent !!
Nick, what about Razorock, Tiki Bar Soap and Grandstaff Soap Co.?
Have you tried the Taconic shave soap yet?
Sapone Di Paolo's Cremoso, Soap Commander's Confidence and Stirling's Barbershop have been my top three
nick shaves Hey Nick, what are your thoughts on the art of shaving creams?
Thanks,
Rustin
Do you know how long can you store a soap even thought it has been open, before they go bad? Thanks
Gustavo Miranda Not sure. I'm wondering the same thing. I've got a sample of Cella that's two years old I used once until yesterday.
It looked questionable but was still pliable.
I tried it anyway , this time putting some of it in a barber shop mug to lather.
It was nearly BBS. It did want to disapate somewhat as I shaved but it was so slick it didn't slow me down.
Excellent cushion, slickness, and protection.
No irritation, nicks, or cuts.
I'm still wondering the question, but as far as Cella is concerned it's still tops.
I know this is a few years back, but for European soaps you left out the best. Pannacrema nuavia, MdC, ABC, Tabula Rasa, Tabac, Haslinger. I could name a lot more.
Do you like pierre lucien? It's an artisan soap maker from france same like martin decandre. By the way nice watch. Is it an omega speedmaster?
I looked at your Palmolive review and your Cella review closely, and to me at least it seemed as you were more excited about the Plamolive, so I would think you will include the Palmolive in your favorites. Plus I am using Palmolive now, and it is my favorite for sure. Someone advice me to try Cella and that they perform pretty similar. Is that true?
Benny Cohen I like Arko stick better than Cella although Cella's almond cherry scent is nice. I've not tried Palmolive yet.
Another rep for Synergy.
I would love to hear your thoughts on WM Neumann, as I love their products. Their Heartwood scent is one of the best I have ever come across (and their AS are out of control).
I will put that on my wish list! I have heard good things about WMN - and if its good, I want to review it
nick shaves I have heard mixed things about their soaps, but never had an issue. Their AS, though, are absolutely out of control. They're at a bit of a premium, but I find myself buying more and more for my den.
Have you ever try the taylor old bond street sandalwood?
This might sound sound like a dumb question but what is the difference between soap and cream ?
+rog duran The biggest difference I've noticed is that creams are usually easier to lather but they don't offer the lubrication that soaps do. Soap also usually lasts longer.
Soaps are generally harder than creams. Your standard "soap" is about as hard as stick butter after you take it out of the fridge for a minute or so, hard enough to keep shape but if you press on it, it will leave an indentation. Shave pucks are considered soaps but are extremely solid like a regular bar of soap but usually even harder. Creams are soft like lotion or toothpaste and generally build up a lather easier and faster. Soaps usually can tolerate water being added to them throughout the shave to get the best lather possible. Creams usually have a limit to how much water they can hold and it's generally a lot less than soaps and become runny on the face very fast. One is not better than the other. All about personal preference.
Soaps always either come in a plastic containers or in puck form. Creams can come in the same tubs or containers soaps are but can also be in squeeze containers like toothpaste. Soaps you have to load a brush with directly from the containers by swirling around your brush for a minute or so. Creams you can just dip your brush in and start face or bowl lathering. I hope this helped
+Rob G thanks this helps
Not so much.I did tested some of the products and they various a lot! The best shave soap are Floris and they are easy to whip up to nice cream. While shave cream is more thicker. It all depends about the water too. Make the badger brush wet and squeeze out. Use hot water to yours face too. I use Floris JF shave soap. They are expensive but excellent to shave with it! Expensive shave soap like Floris do work.
Hey, Nick! I love your videos-- I find them very helpful in finding new products and developing my technique. That being said, I love the Speedmaster! :) New or vintage?
Great video Nick. Reak informative. Thanks
Thanks! Glad that it helped. Thanks for posting
Hi - We have made soap for over 16 years, and we are formulating some shaving soaps for men.Although I have made soaps for so many years now I have always made artisan cold process soaps for the body. Since we are trying to get the formula perfect we need someone to help us in reviewing the shaving soap and giving some honest constructive criticism. Please contact us, if you would be willing to review and give your honest opinion. It would be much appreciated.
Heritage Soap Co. I would be interested in trying some new soap! I don't make videos but I do post reviews on reddit.
I’d love to try your shaving soaps. Do you have a website?
You prefer cella over razorock xxx ? I want to buy a new soap, cella is the cheaper one too.
Mickey Lee Soapworks is very good. I also just tried Kell's Shave Soap. It is very very good. As for Barrister and Mann, it is my go to shave soap!
I haven't used that many soaps but the Blades Grim has awesome scents
I would add Col. Conk to this list. It loads well, has a great cushion, and is slick.
Conk was the first I ordered about eighteen years ago -it is great and has a great post shave.
Nick can you make new video about this or does these soaps still be the best for you??
I've been hearing good things about Anbbas and Sir Hare soaps, have you gotten a chance to try those?
Do yourself a favor and don’t buy any shaving soaps on amazon. I highly recommend you buy them from west coast shaving or maggards where it’s artisan soaps. Artisan soaps are usually have better ingredients and and are high quality. To answer your question, no I’ve not used them personally.
Whats a good unscented soap?
With minimal ingredients.
Don't know if there's something I'm missing, but what's going on with Synergy/HowToGrowAMoustache? There's a handful of places that seem to be selling their pucks, and it doesn't look like quantities are getting re-stocked. Are they Phoenix now, or what?
phoenixartisanaccoutrements.com
There was a bit of a controversy regarding Synergy (at least, as far as controversy goes in the artisan shaving soap world). Specifically, it seems there were some rather deceptive marketing tactics employed by HTGAM, the maker of Synergy. As a result, many shops have chosen to distance themselves from that company. In lieu of the controversy, Synergy rebranded themselves as Phoenix Accoutrements. Some people were turned off by the aforementioned deceptive practices, others couldn't care less. To each their own.
How do you feel about Stubble buster soaps?
Hey Nick your videos are awesome it helps me a lot and very informal. I have the cella, arko, Taylor grapefruit,and proraso tube. Proraso and cellars the best for me cause it's a thick cream. You should do a review on DERBY, And the other CHEAP tube CREAMS, you might be surprise, I ordered a whole lot of variety. COAST.
Thanks! I have the Derby cream and soap. Reviews coming soon!
Niceee
+nick shaves It's been a year, Nick. Where is the Derby soap review? :/
Scents I like the most are Tabac ( a soap) and a cream called Speick. They also give fine shaves ; both from Germany .
hey Nick is the Synergy like a hard soap or soft to the touch, by the Looks Of it It seems like a cream type of soap. by the way Interesting soaps I like to apply a tiny bit of shave butter that I got from target, and I soap up , I'm not exactly sure which brand of soap it is but It has a windmill logo on the bottom No scent It's Ok I'd like to try New ones like the texas One you mentioned in this video Cool stuff.
Van Der Hagen shave soap is the one with the windmill on it. I get it at Wal Mart - it is great and Cheap. It's a great every day soap because of the price !!
Surprised the D.R. Harris Windsor didn't make your list.
This was before I had used it. Now it definitely goes on!
Hey nick shaves have you thought about updating this video now that time has passed and you have tried a wider variety of products?
Just tried Arko for the first time. Great shave, but I wish it had a better scent.
htsnstr21 If you use a cheese grater on it and let it air out for two weeks, the smell will dissipate. Then you can add whatever essential oils you like to make a custom soap that works well!.
aidanrocks13able thanks. Will definitely try.
htsnstr21 No problem. always glad to help!
I can't go past Taylor of old bond Street Sandelwood . the lather is awesome.
You should do an update video on this topic Nick!
I second that - an update would be great. I would imagine you would have Catie's Bubbles on your list now.
Nice selection and thanks for making the vid.
No problem! Hope that you enjoyed it
I can't get the American soaps here in the U.K. But I have tried cella and arko. Cella is pure quality soap but arko, smells good and is very cheap but it gave me some horrible razor burn because I couldn't get a good lather with it
You can get Fine, Proraso, Taylor of old Bond Street and Dr Harris in UK.
My rotation is Mike's (unscented, his scents were too strong for me) Sterling (I think Naked and smooth) which does have a slight scent very pleasant. and Harris Naturals again one with a very light scent. Strong scents bug me as do strong ingredients like menthol of vetiver which you feel I just like smooth and clean.
Good to know! You should check out Imperial - no scents or dyes - very very pleasing to use
try some castle forbes cream, and razorock soaps !
I haven't heard about castle forbes - I will give it a shot!
Oh man you'll love it! Try the lime. That scent is out of this world. And performance can't be matched
Try Godrej ( from India ), lime is great and inexpensive !!
Have you tried The art of shaving sandle wood?
I've got to give Mike's and Sterling a try. Sooo many soaps, so little drawer space. ;)
Totally! I have cleared out a drawer in my dresser to hold shaving supplies....
nick shaves
No kidding. I have boxes all over my room with soaps, aftershave, homemade concoctions, razors, blades, bowls. It gets ridiculous. Love it
hey nick have you ever tried test o shave cream? or has anyone ever tried it can they tell me how it is.
totally random but what watch are you wearing? rolex?
Cella soap + 3P Pre & Post Shave Cream . А fantastic blend : )
Hey Nick! What kind of watch is that?
Omega Professional Speedmaster - the moonwatch! It was present for graduating med school and I love it
I knew it was an Omega! I ask because I have a very addictive watch hobby. My only Omega so far is the Seamaster. I love it as well. Great taste!
Nick, where did you go to Med School ? I get along with medical people so well. They are about the deepest and most compassionate people.