1. Why is my lather thin, airy, or disappearing during my shave?
This is the most common first-time hurdle, and it's usually a water issue—not a soap issue. Proraso's semi-solid soap performs best with a wet brush, a 30–45 second load time, and water added gradually until the lather becomes rich and creamy rather than airy or foamy. Boar brushes tend to work especially well with this soap. If you're still having trouble after a few tries, Proraso's Shaving Cream in a Tube offers the same signature scent with an easier, more forgiving lather.
2. What's the best way to store my shaving soap?
Always let the tub sit with the lid off or loosely resting for an hour or two after your shave so any lingering moisture can evaporate. Closing a soaking wet tub immediately can trap excess water, softening the soap prematurely and degrading the fragrance over time. Once dry to the touch, snap the lid closed.
3. How long will a jar of the Shaving Soap in a Bowl last?
A little goes a long way, so the Shaving Soap in a Bowl is an exceptional value. It's highly concentrated, so one bowl typically lasts 4 to 6 months with regular use, depending on how often you shave and how much soap you load onto your brush.
4. Do I need a separate shaving bowl, or can I lather right in the container (or on my face)?
It's up to you. Proraso Shaving Soap works well with all three methods. You can build your lather directly in the container, in a separate shaving bowl, or on your face depending on your shaving routine and personal preference. Some users prefer transferring a small scoop into a warmed bowl for a fluffier lather, but it's optional, not necessary.
5. What's the difference between the Shaving Cream Tube and the Shaving Soap in a Jar?
This might surprise you, but the formula is the same (!) and they both result in a rich, dense lather. The difference is in the cooling process during production and how much water evaporates during that process. Proraso's Shaving Cream in a Tube and Soap in a Jar are both made using a saponification, or "hot soap" method. After mixing, the soap is poured into large vats to cool, or "cure", during which time the water evaporates and the formula becomes more concentrated. The cream in a tube cures for about 5 days and the soap in a jar cures for about 10, the latter resulting in a semi-solid texture versus a softer, creamy texture. The Cream in a Tube can be used either with hands or a brush, while the Soap in a Jar requires a shaving brush. Which you choose comes down to personal preference.
6. Is the Refreshing formula heavily scented?
The Refreshing formula features our signature eucalyptus and menthol fragrance for a clean, invigorating shave. While the scent is noticeable, especially right when you open the lid and during use, it mellows once lathered and fades after shaving. Most people find it refreshing rather than overwhelming.
7. Will this help reduce razor burn?
Our Shaving Soap creates a rich, creamy lather that helps reduce friction for a smooth, comfortable shave. Pairing it with Proraso Pre-Shave Cream adds an extra layer of comfort, especially if you're prone to razor burn.