I was originally using soaps exclusively--Mitchell's Wool Fat and Tabac primarily. However, once I found the Santa Maria Novella cream, I just seem to always reach for it first! It is simply wonderful and the best I have ever used! It is pricey, around $55, but the tub lasts for 10-12 months depending on how you use it! Don't get me wrong though, the Mitchell's and Tabac are both great products as well. (Especially the Wool Fat Soap.) But my beard seems to respond to creams much better for the most part, as they soften my beard quickly and don't tend to dry out the way soaps sometimes can. In the end though, I love both soaps and creams and see the benefits of each. (Try the SMN cream though if you get the chance, you won't regret it!)