Tallow vs Glycerine vs Oil

​Soaps can be made from a variety of ingredients.

While some soaps dry out your face, glycerine based soap products tend to be moisturizing.

Glycerin is a humectant, which is an agent that promotes hydrated skin. It is an organic feature of the soapmaking process, but many large manufacturers deliberately eliminate it from their products for profitability purposes.

Hand crafted soaps retain this useful compound to enhance the softening and moisturize side effects. It’s normal for glycerine soaps to be 100% natural, but sometimes a small quantity of synthetic ingredients or perfumes are added.

You can even make your own glycerine soaps at home!

A downside to glycerine based soaps is that the higher the quantity, the faster it’ll be used up. Due to its magnificent melting abilities, it tends to break down faster than other similar soaps.

Tallow based soaps are very popular and derived from natural animal or plant fats. They are not typically suitable for vegans, but some carnivores actually argue that this method of animal use is entirely ethical, seeing as it discourages wastage.

Lanolin is often found in tallow based soaps which protect the hair and skin while shaving. These products often last a little longer than their glycerine competitors and benefit from skin-nurturing ingredients.

Oil based soaps can be equally as nourishing, as it incorporates ingredients like coconut extracts and shea butter.

Palm oil comes with its own list of ethical considerations, but as a rule of thumb, oil based soaps tend to be environmentally friendly, high in vitamins and almost always completely natural.

Types of shaving soaps

​You may have come across some categories of shaving soap such as ‘triple milled’ and ‘croaps’ without fully understanding what they mean.

Triple milled soap is soap that has been passed through a milling machine three times during the manufacturing process.

It creates a fine smooth paste with no air trapped inside. It also removes any redundant water, making this a pure and authentic product. It can, however, be slightly more expensive than its competitors.

Here are three of the top triple milled shaving soaps:

 

Semi-hard soap is soap that is slightly softer and pliable than solid soap. It’s easier to froth up using a shaving brush.

A good chunk of the market provides semi hard soaps for optimal comfort and ease of use.

Here’s some examples of top of the range semi-hard shaving soaps:

Croaps, which are cream-soaps (otherwise known as hard-cream) is, very simply, a combination of shaving cream and shaving soap.

Here’s some examples of some croap favorites:

The Top 11 Shaving Soaps We Reviewed

​The Top 11 Shaving Soap Reviews

Edwin Jagger 99.9% Natural Traditional Shaving Soap In Travel Tub – Aloe Vera, 2.3-Ounce

Features

• SENSITIVE SKIN: Aloe Vera is acknowledged as a natural preparation for sensitive skin with properties that help to protect, repair, and replenish. This shaving soap will produce a thick cushioned lather to gently soothe the skin.
• CLASSIC FRAGRANCE: Aloe vera’s fragrance is a gentle and soothing embrace, reminiscent of fresh, dew-kissed leaves, with subtle earthy undertones that evoke a sense of natural purity and rejuvenation.
• ECO-CONCIOUS: We share the environmental concerns of our customers. This formula is free from parabens, mineral oils and contains natural ingredients, meaning it’s as kind to the environment as it is to your skin.
• PREMIUM QUALITY: Edwin Jagger has selected the very best natural ingredients for this Shaving Soap. It is of paramount importance to us that we offer our customers shaving products that are highly effective, vegan-friendly, and kind to the skin.
• EDWIN JAGGER: Made by the renowned manufacturer in Sheffield, England, to the highest standard. This luxury soap is delivered in smart presentation packaging, includes care booklet and instructions, and makes an ideal gift for both men and women.

This natural, paraben free shaving soap is not only absent of any nasty chemicals but lathers up in a luxurious way, creating a smooth and silky shave.

All you need to do is combine your normal shaving brush with hot water and a bit of soap to prep the hair for the ultimate shaving experience.

The natural plant extract ingredients include Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, which is soothing as well as skin refreshed.

Aloe Vera is exceptionally soothing, so it’s recommended for anyone who suffers from skin redness or dryness.

In fact, this soap could be particularly good for anyone with sensitive skin or chronic skin conditions due to its combination of safe and natural ingredients.

If you enjoy a subtle scent over a potent alternative, then this shaving soap could be the perfect fit. Its meadowy fragrance is light and airy, epitomizing the freshness of early spring.

The outer black and green packaging is certainly appealing, with each refill presented in a stylishly refined way. And for the most sophisticated bathroom in the land, why not keep it in an Edwin Jagger Porcelain Shaving Soap Bowl  for maximum shaving swagger?

Refills measure at 6.2cm X 2.5cm but they last a long time due to the rich substantiality of the product.

• No nasty chemicals
• Softens skin and hair
• Great for sensitive skin
• Comes with soap bowl

What’s to love?

Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce Review

Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce

Features

• Sandalwood-scented shaving cream produces a rich, creamy lather that ensures an exceptionally close shave. Paraben-free, Suitable for all skin types.
• Loaded with moisturizing and protective properties, it leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth, without any greasy residue. Use within 12 months after opening.
• Sandalwood – A classic fragrance with top notes of geranium, lavender, rosemary and liquid amber supported by a heart of carnation, fern and orange blossom resting on a sumptuous base of patchouli, sandalwood, powdery musk and rock rose
• Due to environmental considerations Taylor shave creams no longer come with a plastic inner cap. It is quite normal for creams to have irregular cavity structures and for their surfaces to not be completely smooth. This does not affect the quality of the cream and should not be considered a flaw.
• Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Stearic Acid, Myristic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Coconut Fatty Acid, Glycerin, Parfum (Fragrance), Triethanolamine, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, (Parfum Contains: Linalool, Geraniol, Benzyl Salicylate, Citronellol, Eugenol, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Cinnamate, Evernia Furfuracea Extract, Evernia Prunastri Extract, Limonene, Coumarin)

Taylor of Old Bond Street is one of the most distinguished gentleman’s companies out there.

In fact, they’ve been manufacturing men’s grooming products since 1854, making them highly experienced and knowledgeable about everything and anything shaving-related.

Their sandalwood shaving soap is the envelopment of shaving sophistication.

First and foremost, the classic, masculine fragrance is to die for. With light musky tones, it’s almost guaranteed that you won’t need your eu de toilette after you shave with this soap.

Each ingredient adds something beneficial to the product. Fresh orange blossom, calming lavender, earthy sandalwood, sweet rosemary, and manly musk are just some of the natural elements of this highly sought after shaving soap.

To use it, simply mix a small amount with warm water and watch the bubbly lather effortlessly appear. You may not need to put as much brush-effort into producing this lather, which will save you time and energy.

The soap is designed to stimulate your facial hair, making it prepped and ready for a successful shaving experience.

Lavender is particularly effective for sore or sensitive skin, so this is great if you regularly find yourself with a shaving rash.

Orange blossom is one of those incredibly potent fragrances that is bound to wake you up in the morning, so is perfect if you need a lift. In fact, many of this product’s organic ingredients have anxiety-eliminating properties.

Furthermore, the soap comes with a stylish wooden circular bowl that can facilitate future refills, adding a refined feature to your bathroom. The bowl has a useful lid which contains the soap and stops it from drying out.

There are a number of 100g refills that can be purchased with this product. So if you prefer a zing of lime or subtle vanilla, Taylor of Old Bond Street can accommodate you.

What’s to love?

• Packed with natural ingredients and essential oils
• There’s an option to buy one with a stylish bowl included
• Many refills to choose from
• Lathers up well

Henry Cavendish Himalaya Shaving Soap with Shea Butter & Coconut Oil. Long Lasting 3.8 oz Puck Refill. Mens Shave Soap. All Natural. Rich Lather, better than Shaving Cream. For Ladies and Gentlemen.

Features

• American Made Shaving Soap easily creates rich lather: it lubricates razor for a slick, cushioned and comfortable shave. Lather is long lasting unlike many shaving cream, foams and gels which dry out.
• Ladies Love the Addition of Shea Butter which leaves skin feeling smooth and nicely moisturized, not oily. Won’t dry or irritate your skin like many shaving soaps, shaving creams and gels do.
• Larger in size than average mug shave soaps: will last about 3 – 6 months. 20 seconds in a Microwave fits it to any size shaving mug! Minimal light scent (almost none) which is fresh without being artificial. Ladies seem to like it!
• This shaving soap is a notch above other shaving products. With minimal all-natural ingredients, it has no artificial color or fragrance, and contains nothing you can’t pronounce!
• 100% Satisfaction Money Back Guarantee. Click on the add to cart button, up and to the right on this page, NOW!

Unlike other shaving soaps on the market, the Henry Cavendish Himalaya Shaving Soap  is designed to last a longer period of time at a fraction of the average cost.

In fact, this shaving soap is so efficient it can take a whole six months to require a refill.

The lather is long lasting, unlike certain shaving foams that can dry out quickly, even shortly after application.

For storage, pop the product in a microwave for 20 seconds so that it is slightly runny, then pour it into your preferred container or mug for future use.

One key feature of this product is its coconut oil and Shea butter.

Unless you’ve been living on another planet, you’ll likely already know that coconut oil is the holy grail of optimal skin care. Its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, ultra-nourishing properties work wonders on any skin type.

Shea butter is luxuriously soft, with a natural aroma and gentle healing power.

The shave soap is so natural that it boasts zero artificial chemicals or unpronounceable preservatives.

Why not pair it up with a badger hair shaving brush to create the ultimate pampering experience?

In terms of the fragrance, this soap is better suited to those who prefer a less obvious scent.

It’s so subtle and fresh that it envelops a natural, crisp vibe which is great for any modest men about town.

What’s to love?

• Lasts a long time
• Contains natural soothing ingredients
• No preservatives
• Subtle scent

Arko Shaving Soap Stick, White, ( Pack Of 12 )

Features

• Its creamy formula provides easy and comfortable shave
• 12 sticks come in this package
• Each stick is individually paper wrapped

Fancy a gold standard shaving soap with a bit of an edge?

These quirky little Turkish soap sticks are individually wrapped and perfect for anyone on the go.

With an intensely creamy formula, they promote a close, comfortable shave with the ease of use unparalleled elsewhere. In fact, barbers all over the world use this product on their customers, making it arguably more trustworthy than its competitors.

Each stick can be rubbed directly onto the skin (think of it as a male lipstick), so there’s little need for a shaving brush.

The lemony scent (courtesy of the citronella) has a fresh fruity tang, and the thick creamy lather makes shaving comfortable and easy.

What could be not to love? Due to the compact packaging and individual wrapping, the Arko Shaving Cream Soap Sticks could be handy if you travel regularly for work and are tired of using whatever paint-stripper the hotel gives you.

Although these sticks are rather small (8cm tall in fact), they do last a while and are not finished after just one or two uses.

This does depend, of course, on how much beard you have, and how much you need to shave off.

What’s to love?

• Recommended by barbers
• Individually wrapped bars
• Zesty lemon scent
• Good travel companion

Hudson Made – Beard & Shave Soap (Original White)

Features

• The Original White Beard & Shave Soap is lightly scented with essential oils of petitgrain, cedarwood, juniper needle, myrrh and black pepper — perfect for a reviving and refreshing morning grooming ritual, whether your beard is nurtured or nullified.
• For the bearded man and his clean-shaven brother, this multi-purpose disc generates a lather that acts as both a gentle beard shampoo and an exceptional shaving cream.
• Our exclusive formula rinses away debris while leaving behind the natural oils of your beard and skin. For the razor wielders out there, get a fine finish and smooth jawline with our Beard and Shave Soap’s extraordinary slip.
• Whether you’re cultivating a beard, or shaving it off on the daily, this American-made soap will give your routine a rugged boost. Its formula produces a rich, creamy lather that serves equally well as a beard shampoo and shave cream— formulated to balance the skin with essential oils of myrrh, juniper, cedarwod, petitgrain, and black pepper.
• How to use it; For beard cleansing, work the bar into your damp scruff to produce a healthy lather, then gently massage before rinsing. For shaving, use your hands to build up a generous amount of lather, then massage it into your stubble before shaving as usual.

If you’re looking for the perfect combination between a shampoo and a shaving cream, this beard & shave soap could be the answer to your prayers.

Its unique formula is said to wash away dirt while retaining the natural oils that live within the hair. This means a natural looking beard with absolutely no traces of last night’s dinner.

Hudson Made are not a typical men’s grooming manufacturer. They maintain pride in making high-quality products and take care over every element of its creation.

Their philosophy involves supporting regional and sustainable production sources, so if you find yourself sick of overly-commercial international brands, this could be the shaving soap for you.

This particular product is free from parabens, artificial chemicals, animal-cruelty and synthetic dyes. In fact, it couldn’t be more natural if it tried.

The list of essential oils that are packed into this small bar is about a mile long.

To name a few, there’s uplifting Bergamot, healing Petitgrain, invigorating White Grapefruit, balancing Neroli, grounding Vetiver and relaxing Myrrh.

The combination of such potent oils could have resulted in a terribly smelly beard. But actually, the woody aromas are highly complementary, meaning that there’s no need for aftershave.

What you might love about this product is that, if you have the occasional day when you don’t want to shave, it can still be used as a luxury beard shampoo for the shower.

What’s to love?

• No preservatives or artificial chemicals
• Ethically sourced ingredients
• Appealing scent
• Doubles up as a shampoo

Mitchell’s Wool Fat Shaving Soap in Dish

Features

• Made in Bradford, England
• Contains lanolin and other organic ingredients
• 4.4 oz soap
• Comes in a ceramic bowl with lid

Mitchell’s Wool Fat Shaving Soap is a saponified oil soap.

This means that at least one component of the soap is a fat of some sort (and in this case, wool fat).

If you’re wondering what ‘wool fat’ is, don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s actually a greasy substance (also known as ‘lanolin’) which is extracted from wool and frequently put into cosmetic and household products. It also is recommended by dermatologists to soothe irritated or angry skin conditions.

Please be aware, however, that some people are allergic to lanolin, so if you notice any itching or redness after use, it’s probably best to discontinue.

Unlike some of its natural organic competitors, this gimmick-free shaving soap doesn’t shy away from a few friendly chemicals. Sodium tallowate, sodium cocoate and potassium cocoate might sound a little scary, but when you realise what they’re for, there’s a lot less stigma.

Sodium tallowate essentially lifts dirt from your face and beard hair through the creation of thick foam, allowing you to wash away the grime of the day with minimal effort.

Sodium cocoate is lubricating, and actually contains coconut oil which works wonders on bushy, wiry beard hair, so if you want to retain a bit of goatee, at least it’ll be silky smooth making for an easier shave.

Finally potassium cocoate separates dirt from the essential beard oils.

While this product is made in England, it’s highly popular around the world.

It contains a 4.4 ounce soap, which is enough to last a couple of months depending on how much facial hair you have and how often you shave. The lidded ceramic bowl makes storage easy, and blends well into any bathroom design.

For those of you who detest floral, woody or nutty smells, this shaving soap could be perfect.

There is no fancy fragrance added into this product. It has a mild soapy aroma which is pleasant on the nose, but also subtle enough to forget about once the shave is over.

So, once your stubble is swiped clean, simply place the soap back into the bowl, wipe your face and go about your day without any fuss or fluff.

What’s to love?

• Effective at cleaning
• Subtle scent, no frills
• Very thick lather
• A little goes a long way

Premium Shaving Soap for Men by Sir Hare – Barbershop Fragrance – Shave Soap That Smells Great and Provides a Smooth Shave

Features

• Tallow based shaving soap creates a protective and cushy lather and lubricates any razor for a smooth and irritation free shave. Leaves you with the closest shave ever. This soft soap/cream can be used with any razor and your favorite brush.
• You get a full 4 ounces of shaving soap in an 8 ounce container. That’s enough soap to last for more than 100 shaves. We put it in an 8 ounce container so that you can use it without a shaving bowl, and it saves you from making a mess.
• Each Shaving Soap is handcrafted and hand poured into the containers, leaving an uneven surface. This is perfectly normal and results in a high quality product made especially for you. Hand Made and hand poured in the U.S. in small batches for the best quality. Great for all skin types including sensitive skin. Reduced friction helps reduces chance for razor bumps or rashes while shaving
• Old fashioned barbershop scent that is Fresh and Clean with hints of Bergamot, Oakmoss, Sandalwood, and Cedarwood.
• Shaving should be an experience and not a chore. You should UPGRADE your shave today and buy with confidence with our no hassle money back guarantee. Support our small family business by clicking on the add to cart up and to the right and you’ll be glad you did. Sir Hare prides itself on quality mens care.

If you enjoy classy, traditional grooming products, this triple-milled (meaning it’s been processed three times for smoothness) could be ideal for you.

Served up in a sophisticated mahogany bowl, this sold soap looks attractive in any gentleman’s bathroom and eliminates the need for a separate shaving cup.

The woody, masculine fragrance is rich and dominant, meaning you may have a lovely lingering scent for the rest of the day.

To use, simply pick up your favorite shaving brush, add a sprinkle of water to the soap and use your brush to lather up the amount you require. The lather on this particular soap is impressive due to its thorough triple-milled manufacturing process.

Due to the substantiality of the lather, the Marlborough Shaving Soap is bound to last a good few months.

There are also a number of refills to choose from, so if you’re in the mood for calming almond or soothing lavender, these scents are available for you to mix and match.

Unlike its organic competitors, this shaving soap is more occupied with a luxury lather than using less effective natural alternatives.

However, all chemicals used are user-friendly and dermatologically tested, meaning you’re likely to have a comfortable shave with no rash or razor burn.

What’s to love?

• Lots of lather
• Lasts a long time
• Variety of refills to choose from
• Stylish soap bowl included

The Blades Grim Gold Luxury Shaving Soap.

Features

• All Natural – No harsh chemicals for reduced irritation
• Thick Lather – For perfect glide with any razor
• Long Lasting – Save money and get a superior shave all at the same time
• Screw Top Lid – Securely protects your soap from outside contaminates
• American Hand Made – Supports the U.S. economy wall promoting fair Labor & product quality standards

Are you a suave gentleman? Do you love traditional grooming products that encompass the simplicity of the ‘good old days’?

If so, this tallow based shaving soap might be for you. With a combination of versatile ingredients, this product is totally natural and preservative free, so you can feel assured of a smooth shave with little irritation.

Shea and mango butter are packed with vitamin A, B and C, making it great for sensitive skin and especially tough hair. It’s bound to untangle and tame even the wildest manes and leave your face feeling fresh and vibrant.

One of these 4-ounce soaps promises at least 100 shaves. That means that even if you shave every day, you can expect this shaving soap to last at least 3 months.

The ‘barbershop fragrance’ is exactly how you’d imagine it to be. Applying this aromatic oakmoss product to your face will bring up flashbacks of relaxing in a traditional barber’s chair being pampered by a professional.

The packaging is fun, refined and friendly, with good old Sir Hare on the front to remind you that only the most sophisticated folk use this shaving soap. To make the container even more unique, the label is entirely waterproof, meaning Sir Hare will stay in place for the full 100+ shaves.

For an optimal, effortless experience, why not pair it up with a Sir Hare Gramps Ole Shaving Brush.

What’s to love?

• All natural ingredients including shea and mango butter
• Waterproof stylish packaging
• Nostalgic barbershop scent
• Lasts at least 100 shaves

Col. Conk Shave Soap 2.25 Ounces (Variety 4 Pack)

Features

• Col. Conk Famous Shave Soaps
• Variety Pack of 4
• Each Cake is 2 oz
• Made in USA

This warm and succulent luxury shaving soap is not only thick and creamy but has a compact list of top quality ingredients.

The zesty orange peel and mandarin adds a citrusy tang to the overall scent.

The coriander leaves, while normally spicing up a curry, work wonders on acne prone skin.

Star anise is an (almost) magic cure for wrinkles and lines, as is Venezuela Tonka beans, a traditional anti-aging tonic. Simply put, this fresh formulation of natural goodness is a foodie’s fantasy. Simply add a touch of water to your beard and lather this beauty up with your shaving brush.

The scent truly does encompass the Great Underworld, with deep musky vanilla tones and a lingering spice that lasts the whole day.

In fact, you may not even want to apply your regular man-perfume due to the potency of the shaving soap aroma. If you really want to have the full grim reaper experience, why not pair this product up with the Smoulder Aftershave?

Don’t be put off by the Grim Reaper lurking on the packaging. It’s just a reminder that this is a warm, fierce shaving soap for only the most hardcore blade-swipers.

What’s to love?

• Fierce and original scent
• Anti ageing anti wrinkle ingredients
• All natural
• Cool packaging

Are you the type of person who wakes up each morning with a different ‘vibe’ for the day? If so, why not enjoy a variety of shaving soaps, each with a different scent, to match your mood to your morning routine?

The Col Conk Shave Soap Variety Pack consists of four miniature 2.25-ounce soaps.

The BayRum soap (the red one) has a funky deep rum aroma. The Amber soap is the most subtle and gentle of the four. The Almond flavor (yellow) has a pleasing sweetness that develops as you use it, and the lime is for those days you’re feeling energetic, sharp and adventurous.

Each of the products contains avocado, which is famously friendly towards sensitive skin, as well as vitamin E for a healthy glow.

The lather from this glycerine-based soap is softer than most alternatives on the market. Unlike triple milled competitors, glycerine soap wears down much quicker when using a shaving brush, meaning a bigger and frothier lather in half the time.

This could be a great starter-kit for those who haven’t quite found their man-scent yet. This way you can have a go with all of the options before committing to one in particular.

If you’re wondering who Col. Conk is, don’t worry, he got a little lost in history. In fact, he was a famous barber back in 1866, who graciously traveled around the old west giving shavings grooming opportunities to those who were less fortunate.

His legend has lived on through the American barber community ever since, and he is now featured ever so proudly on the front of the Col Conk Shave Soap 4 Pack.

What’s to love?

• Four fantastic scents to choose from
• Contains avocado for sensitive skin
• Cool history attached to the product
• Quick and easy lather

In Closing

​The shaving soap you choose depends on your skin and hair type, as well as personal shaving preferences.

There are so many varieties to choose from; you may want to experiment with a few before settling.It’s good to consider whether you value smaller, self-sustaining grooming companies or are happier with globally recognized favorites.

It’s also important to know what type of shaving soap works best for you, whether it be triple milled, semi-hard or cream based soaps.

These top 11 best shaving soaps demonstrate the wide range of options available on the market, all of which pack a traditional punch and can be enjoyed by men of all facial hair types.

You may be wondering what our pick is for the best shaving soap.

Here’s our top 3 picks for the best shaving soaps.​

Our top choice for the best shaving soaps

Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce

• Amazing Ingredients
• Awesome Lather
• Fantastic Price
• Superb Skin Care

A close second for the title of the best shaving soap

Our final choice for the best shaving soap

• Fantastic scents
• Excellent ingredients
• Great Lather

Loved the article? Why not check out more of our shaving articles or if you want, you can see more from shaving creams and shaving soaps