Thread: Glycerine soap as a "base" before applying shaving cream.

So I've been experimenting some more... I find that if I apply a "base" of Col Crunk's glycerine soap before applying my actual soap (Proraso), I get a much smoother shaving experience. Either one alone doesn't work as well. Anyone else do something similar to this? Is it easier/better to just drip some glycerin into the soap bowl before mixing to supplement? If so, suggestions on glycerin supplements?

I use a basic glycerin based soap I purchased from Fresh & Easy as a pre shave. Works great.

Well I'm brand new so I maybe off base here, so please keep that in mind.

It sounds like using the glycerin in this manner is doubling as a preshave lubricant as well as helping with the hydration aspects of the lather once applied. Not a bad idea but I would assume you are using alot more glycerin product to cover your face rather than just putting a few drops directly in with the cream or soap.

Razorcut - correct. I apply the glycerin soap over my entire face, then apply the shaving soap to each section just before cutting.

Try using soap, cream snd glycerin to make uberlather. Do a search and you will find heaps of suggestions.

Originally Posted by eddy79

Try using soap, cream snd glycerin to make uberlather. Do a search and you will find heaps of suggestions.

Major Dittos to that. I found the Glys at Walmart and haven't run out yet.

I put it at the base of my bowl. 3-5 drops. Add an almond size of cream. Load up the brush on the soap. And, it's spackle time.

I simply put a drop or two of my after shave balsam, you know, the white balsam, and it makes uber lather in seconds.

If you're applying soap to your face, presumably un-lathered soap, and then applying lather, you're probably getting dry lather overall. If the lather doesn't rinse off your blade with ease (no gunk left over that needs to be wiped off), the lather is too dry.

Personally, I just use water as a pre-shave. Sometimes if I'm feeling fancy, I apply lather as a "pre-shave", rise off, then re-apply for the shave.

Hair is weakest when wet. That's why when you shave, you wet your face, and then use lather to keep that moisture on your face. Glide is also a factor in lather, which is what I believe you're after, as is cushion.

Glycerin, like mentioned above, helps with water retention in the lather, however, too much will break down the lather.

A good lather should keep your face wet, provide good cushion and glide, and be stable (not dissipate or dry out). There are the typical factors that people judge a soap or cream, in addition to how easily you can actually create lather from it.

Hope that helps.

Thanks for sharing!

I've used Glycerin in my lather (up to 8 drops) and it keeps my lather from drying out.

It was also recommended by others to put a few drops of glycerin on your wet face and massage in before lathering your face. I tried it and compared it with a preshave oil and both seem helpful.

... also I made a Franken Stick of Mama Bears and Van Der Hagen that gives a great lather also.

Basically you can use your imagination and experiment with just about anything. I like experimenting with my shave creams when I am too broke to buy/try a new brand. That's what makes this a hobby.