Shaving Soap vs Shaving Cream: Which One to Use?

by Jay Kang | Updated on February 4th, 2023

Are you looking to get the closest shave possible? Are you curious about the difference between shaving cream and shaving soap?

If so, then this blog post is for you!

We’ll discuss the advantages of each product, plus some tips on choosing the best one for your needs.

Shaving Soap vs. Shaving Cream

Differences in Consistency

One of the major differences between shaving cream and soap is consistency. Shaving creams are softer and often contain more water, while shaving soaps are harder in texture and require a bit of work to pick up on the brush.

However, shaving soaps provide a more robust lubricating layer superior for close, comfortable shaves. Another key difference is that creams can be applied straight to the face or legs and then lathered, unlike solid shaving soaps.

Shaving cream is a softer substance, offering a paste-like consistency, and it’s typically sold in portly hand-sized tubs or tubes. On the other hand, shaving soap needs water to produce a lather, but it’s often much cheaper than cream.

Shaving Soaps Less Irritation

Shaving soap has a reputation for causing less irritation than shaving cream. This is because it does not contain artificial fragrances, dyes, or other additives that can irritate sensitive skin. It also does not leave a film on the skin, which can cause additional irritation. Additionally, its thicker lather helps to reduce razor drag and provide a smoother shave which can help to prevent nicks and cuts.

Finally, its moisturizing properties help to soften the hair and reduce tugging, which can further reduce irritation. These benefits make shaving soap an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin or prone to irritation when shaving.

Shaving Creams are Softer

Shaving creams are softer and often contain more water than shaving soap. This makes working on the skin and hair easier, softening both before having. The cushiony texture of shaving creams provides a more dynamic experience and can be applied directly onto the skin.

On the other hand, shave soaps are much harder in texture, requiring a bit of work to pick up on the brush, but they provide a more robust lubricating layer that ensures a close, comfortable shave.

Shaving Soaps Require More Work

Soap must be mixed with water and applied to the face to create a lather. This process takes more time and effort than it does when using shaving cream. However, the effort pays off as soaps provide a more robust lubricating layer when compared to their cream counterparts. This makes them superior for close and comfortable shaves.

Shaving Creams Provide Moisture

Shaving creams are often more moisturizing than shaving soap, providing a richer and creamier lather with great cushion and lubrication. This makes them especially beneficial for men with dry skin, as the lather created from shaving cream helps to maintain moisture, resulting in a more comfortable shave.

Real soap retains moisture thanks to glycerin, while synthetic, petroleum-based soap found in many commercial shaving creams can strip away the natural oils from the skin.

Shaving Creams are Easier to Work Into

Shaving creams are softer than shaving soaps, making them easier to work into a lather. They can be rubbed directly onto the skin and require less effort to whip into a foam. This makes them ideal for beginners just starting with wet shaving, as the lather is more quickly and easily produced with shaving cream.

Furthermore, the cream is lighter than soap, meaning it’s easier to produce a workable lather and is great for those looking for a quick yet comfortable shave.

Shaving Soaps Produce a More Robust Lubricating Layer

Shaving creams are more efficient and easier to use when it comes to wet shaving, but shaving soap provides a more robust lubricating layer. When applied with a shave brush, shaving soap creates a thick, rich lather that helps to provide an extra layer of lubrication between the razor and the skin.

This is especially beneficial for sensitive skin, as it helps reduce the risk of nicks and cuts. The lather created by shaving soap also helps to lift the hairs, making it easier for your razor to get a close shave.

Shaving Soaps Produce Longer Lasting Lather

Shaving soap is known for creating a longer-lasting lather than shaving cream. While shaving cream may be easier to lather, shaving soap can maintain its lather for longer. This is due to the higher fat content in the soap, which helps create a stable foam that won’t dissipate as quickly. This makes it ideal for men with thicker facial hair who need to shave more frequently.

Shaving Creams Can Be Applied Directly to the Skin

Shaving creams are a great, quick, and easy way to prepare your skin and hair for wet shaving. Unlike shaving soaps, they can be applied directly to the skin without needing a bowl and brush. So if you’re looking for a quicker and more dynamic shave, shaving creams are the way to go.

Shaving Soaps is More Cost Effective

Shaving soaps can be a great cost-effective way to get a close shave. They generally last much longer than shaving creams, and the ingredients are often natural and affordable. Since they don’t contain any water, they don’t need added preservatives or stabilizers, meaning you can get more out of each bar. In comparison, shaving creams can be expensive as they require additional ingredients to create a smooth, stable lather.

Pros and Cons of Shaving Soap

Shaving soap has many benefits, including less irritation, a longer-lasting lather, and moisturizing properties. It is also cost-effective and provides a gentle experience for the skin.

However, it requires more time to work up a lather than shaving cream, and it may not be suitable for sensitive skin as it can be more drying.

Additionally, shaving soaps generally lack the scent that shaving creams provide. Shaving soap is an excellent choice for those who want to avoid irritation and appreciate traditional wet-shaving.

Pros and Cons of Shaving Cream

Shaving cream can be an excellent choice for those new to wet shaving, as it is lighter than shaving soap and more easily creates a workable lather. In addition, it can help protect the skin from cuts and nicks due to its moisturizing properties.

On the flip side, some shaving creams may contain questionable ingredients that can irritate and may not last as long as shaving soap. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which is best for your needs: shaving cream or soap.

Conclusion: Shaving Soaps are Superior for Close, Comfortable Shaves

When it comes to a close and comfortable shave, shaving soaps are the superior choice. They offer great lubrication, which helps protect your skin from razor burn and irritation. They also come in a wide range of scents and flavors, allowing you to customize your shaving experience.

Shaving soap can be a little more time-consuming to work up a lather, but the result is worth it. So if you’re looking for a close, comfortable shave with great lubrication, shaving soap is the way to go.

Jay Kang

Just because i'm asian does not mean I don't need shaving. I always wanted to grow a beard when I was young, now I need to shave because hair growth for me is a problem. I'm going through what every man will and has gone through before.