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Kind of a newbie question, but since i been on here, i always here the word Glycerin tossed around and never really understood what its used for or its benefit. I know its an active ingredient in some creams and soaps, but do you guys buy it and actually incorporate into your lathers? If so id like to give it a whirl, no pun intended, what kind should i buy there seems to be a variety of choices. How much should i use per batch of lather? thank you
It is mostly used for two reasons that I remember, it adds lubrication, and hydration. One of the great things about this as a hobby is that you can experimet to find things that work better for you, so try it out if you like. I don't use it with williams, but have used 4 drops with VDH with some improvment. I got some from a pharmacy, iirc it was just labled as Glycerin.
Jonathan
I use it to make uberlather in my scuttle. I use it when straight shaving because it slows drying giving me longer face time before I need to relather or rehydrate. I get mine in the cosmetics section of CVS pharmacy in 177 ml drop dispensing bottles labeled Pure Glycerin, USP. It is also available in the medical section at greater cost in smaller single use containers.
HTH
Glycerin softens, conditions and protects the skin. Your skin will also feel smoother after the shave.
In a case where you can't get enough lather, a couple of drops will bubble things right up. I keep a bar of cheap glycerin soap at my sink, and if things are going slowly, a pass of that on the brush helps quite a bit.
That's some great info guys once again thanks I do enjoy experimenting so ill pick some up and give it a shot also received in the mail today some tabac shaving cream and virgin island rum after shave goin to have a great shave soon can't wait!
I have been told the main reason is hydration. To echo the other posts.
I add about 8 drops to my scuttle for every shave. It seems to make the cream creamier, the lather peaks taller and the shave smoother! YMMV