Thread: "Dryer

In light of Rustyblade's accolades for "dry lather" soaps, I am in the process of experimenting with a "drier" lather.

Of course, I realize one could simply use less water with any soap/cream, but I have found this works better with some than others.

I have recently taken up straight-razor shaving, so the "DE clogging" is not a concern, nor am I so concerned with the scent - this is so subjective, anyway. I am, however, concerned with the QUALITY of the lather (viz. I prefer a thick, dry, cushion).

While "slickness" is desirable, I find I, personally, get a closer shave when I DON'T use an uber-slick glycerin based soaps/creams, but I'm not inherently avoiding them, if they are the best suggestion.

So, I was wondering which particular soaps/creams (say top 3-5) you would recommend specifically for producing a "drier lather."

Thank you,

Sean

I'd say Williams is about the driest lather out there, or it can be if you are shooting for this goal. I would guess that there is a limit beyond which it becomes too dry with skipping and bleeding being the results of going past the limit.

Wildtim,

Thanks for the suggestion; I believe I have some William's soap.
Based upon some suggestions in another forum, I have placed an order for some Wool Fat and some Tabac.

I'll have to give William's another go...

Thanks again,

Sean

Williams does take work to avoid a dry thick lather, but it doesn't shave particularly well like that.

My vote is for T&H - it can make a very thick creamy lather that is still very slick and will stay shaveably wet for an entire pass.

I thought dry meant most lather for least water period. Williams made with light water certainly isn't slick. It take more water than most to give a slick lather, but it makes a thick lather very easily with very little water.

Could be, I can't really keep track of all the fads on the DE forums. But Williams shaves poorly if you make it dry - that's the cause of Williams' generally sucky reputation. It shaves great if you make a really wet lather and fluff it up a bit into a proper meringue (it's actually the only soap I know of that shaves better as a meringue).

I have never really thought about it but I guess I do get stiffer peaks when its at it best than any other soap I use. There is a lot more water in there than you would think too. I find it a perfectly good soap and even enjoy the light lemon grass scent.

If you want to go really dry, C&E Nomad's the champ.