Our classic gift set includes 4.5oz of shaving soap in a handthrown pottery bowl created by local potter, Erin Ellis Pottery, a 2oz bottle of our Natural Man Beard Oil (you choose scent), and a natural boar bristle shave brush, packaged in a natural burlap bag with mesh window (so you can see contents). Bowls are glazed in blues and browns. 
 
We're thrilled to introduce this classic men's grooming essential to our regular lineup! We talk about beauty rituals for women all the time, but shaving is, by far, one of the most important grooming rituals for men. The exceptional quality of a wet shave may be overlooked and long forgotten by most, but rekindling the timeless wisdome of this essential self-care ritual is well worth it.  Shaving should be one of the most invigorating parts of your day - cherish these simple moments and boldly reclaim this traditional practice. 
 
A high quality shaving soap is far superior to those canned chemical concoctions that are so popular these days. Shaving purists know this and true shave soap remains in high esteem with shavers who savor the traditional aspect of the wet shaving experience, and with men who appreciate having a bit more control over one of the most important products used in a shaving regimen. It also happens to be long lasting, a good value, and no more difficult to use than canned shaving gels or creams.
 
Our traditional formula contains a high level of fat and glycerin to ensure a super smooth, moisturizing shave. Our shave soap softens the beard and leaves the skin smooth and moisturized while creating an effective barrier between the blade and your skin. Our ultra creamy, richly lathering formula offers ample lubrication and protection for the skin during the shaving process so that the blade glides over the surface of the skin without irritating or nicking it.
 
The traditional wet shaving soap grooming ritual for a masterful shave:
Water is the star of the show (hence "wet" shaving!) Splash your face with warm water or commence your shaving routine straight out of the shower. Some shavers prefer a pre-shave oil or lotion for a super-slick shave. Try a squirt or two of our beard oil and see how your shave performance improves.
 Wet your brush under running hot water or stick your brush in a bowl of hot water for a minute to soak up as much moisture as possible. This will allow the moisture to soften your beard and open the pores to prep for shaving.
Lather up the soap using circular motions directly in the container. At first the bubbles will be large but within a handful of seconds you'll see a rich, thick lather.  If not, add a little more water, a few drops or so at a time, until you get the ideal consistency, like whipped cream. 
Apply the lather with the brush, massaging gently into your skin and beard in circular motions. This will also increase the density of the lather, soften your whiskers, and allow them to stand up, allowing the razor to sit close to the base of the hair follicle. This will also offer light exfoliation that will prevent any nicks. The longer you whisk, the richer the lather, the smoother the shave and the more your skin will be protected.
Moving in the same direction as the natural grain of your hair, glide the razor along your face. A double edge safety razor is safer than a straight blade, but for a a true "old school" shave purists recommend learning the ways of the straight blade. Razors are one of the best ways to physically exfoliate surface skin cells and remove impurities from open blackheads. Conversely, improper shaving can lead to inflammation, reddening, irritation and nicks and cuts. 
Take the time to shave carefully in short strokes, especially around scars, moles, pimples, and your chin/nose area. In addition, re-lather faithfully between passes.If a second or third pass is required, a dab more water will provide the necessary lather.
Rinse brush well and empty any standing water from the shave soap container, allowing it to air dry as much as possible. 
End your shave with a splash of cool water to remove any soap residue, followed by a pore-tightening aftershave. If you have sensitive skin, you might prefer a balm or lotion rather than a traditional alcohol-based splash.
 
Approx     oz bar
Handcrafted soap will continue to evaporate water and lose weight over time. This makes for a finer, harder, and longer lasting bar. 
 
Ingredients: 
Distilled water, Stearic acid, Saponified oils of: Coconut oil, Kokum butter, Shea butter & Castor oil; Glycerin, Potassium hydroxide, Sodium hydroxide, Sodium lactate & Fragrance