Though in recent years the shaving market has been dominated by creams, foams and gels, it was once simply humble soap that helped guys stay clean-cut. This method of skin protection actually dates back to the early 1800s, when James Baker Williams developed the first ever formula, the Williams Genuine Yankee soap.
Ever since, grooming brands all over have created their own take on the traditional bar. Though they may have experienced a decline in popularity over the years, they’re on the up once again – and it makes total sense.
First of all, they deliver on the value for money front. Where the average shaving gel only lasts 50 to 70 lathers – which could account for 25 to 35 shaves if you’re someone who does two passes – a 100g bar of soap could last as many as 100 shaves. For best results, you’ll want a shaving brush and bowl which you use together to create a foamy froth.
Shaving soaps are also good for your skin. Whether it’s shea butter, essential oils or aloe vera, all of our chosen soaps are enriched with nourishing ingredients which deliver hydration to your complexion rather than stripping them with nasties like parabens and sulphates (which are found in many supermarket gels and foams, by the way).
Many are also fragranced with addictive aromas, so it’s another layer that can bolster your aftershave. If you’re into Le Labo’s distinctive Santal 33, perhaps go for Truefitt & Hill’s Sandalwood soap, or if you prefer floral notes, it’s Apothecary’s rosehip oil-infused soap that should be on your wishlist.
Last but certainly not least, shaving soaps are an environmentally friendly alternative. Since most of them come wrapped in paper, they prevent single-use plastic or aerosol canisters ending up in landfills. And once you’ve got the bowl and brush, you simply need to top up with refills.
Now all you need is the razor and post-shaving balm to match.
Shop the best shaving soaps below.
Bulldog Original Shave Soap and Bamboo Bowl 100g
A brand you’ll see stocked on the shelves at Boots and most supermarkets, Bulldog is a grooming label known for its effective yet affordable formulas. This soap, for example, contains aloe vera and camelina oil for a hydrating yet luxuriously lathery finish – and it even comes in a refillable bamboo bowl.
Buy now £12.00, lookfantastic
Floris London Elite Shaving Soap in a Wooden Bowl 100g
Dating back to 1730, Floris has nearly 300 years of experience in the world of fragrance and grooming. It’s no wonder, then, that the heritage brand’s shaving range is one of the best – especially when it comes to a traditional soap. This time, it’s enriched with shea butter and an essential oil blend for a rich and creamy lather which will help the blade glide over the skin without causing any damage along the way.
Buy now £28.99, Amazon
Truefitt & Hill Sandalwood Luxury Shaving Soap
It seems sandalwood is one of the most popular fragrances among men right now, from Le Labo’s Santal 33 to Horace’s Eau de Parfum. So, why not start your shaving routine with the same notes? Enter Truefitt & HIll’s luxurious soap which comes in a hand-turned and polished wooden bowl which you can refill once you’re done. A win-win.
Buy now £34.00, Harrods
L’Occitane Cade Shaving Soap
If you’re on the lookout for fuss-free natural products which deliver time and time again, head to L’Occitane. The French retailer is an expert in skin, body and haircare as well as men’s grooming. Containing cade essential oil and shea butter, this shaving soap is rich in antioxidants and provides a purifying, nourishing and protecting addition to your shaving rituals.
Buy now £17.50, L’Occitane
Apothecary Grooming Shaving Soap & Bowl Set
M&S is fast becoming a go-to for men’s beauty. Its own brand, Apothecary, has branched out from candles and fragrances to cater for grooming needs too – shaving included. The blend of coconut oil, shea butter and soothing aloe vera in this soap will soften the skin while rosehip oil replenishes dryness. All that and it’s just £15.
Buy now £15.00, Marks & Spencer
Geo. F. Trumper Sandalwood Shaving Soap & Bowl, 80g
One for the clean-cut English gent, Geo. F. Trumper is a quintessential London-based barbershop and perfumer which has been around since the late 1800s. So, naturally, its shaving soaps leave nothing to be desired. From the deliciously addictive aroma to the smooth texture, this is a soap that will keep you coming back for more.
Buy now £22.00, Fortnum & Mason
Grüum Når Shave Bar Aloe Vera
A British label with a Scandi approach to skincare, practicality and simplicity are at the heart of Grüum’s product ranges. Rich in hydrating natural ingredients like soybean wax and kaolin, this no-nonsense shaving bar will nourish your skin while softening your stubble for a clean shave time and time again.
Buy now £9.00, Grüum
Kitsch Shave Butter 114g
An all-natural vegan formula, Kitsch’s shave butter is free from parabens, phthalates, silicones, sulphates and artificial fragrance. Instead, you can expect strengthening vitamin E and moisturising shea butter - all finished off with the delicate scent of white tea.
Buy now £8.00, Kitsch
