Brush Pick

[knot on the water]

Hey guys getting ready to buy a starter set from one of two websites.

would you rec a

Rooney style 3 small silvertip

or

•Vulfix 660 Super Badger Shaving Brush

otherwise razors are the same. Which is better to start with soap or cream?

Thanks

 

[tgarza]

rooney. get a soap and a cream!

 

[andrew98]

rooney. get a soap and a cream!

+1 on the Rooney. I only use soaps because they contain, to my knowledge, fewer preservatives (parabens) and other funky chemicals, and I think they're more fun to use than creams. Although, soaps can be challenging when you're first getting started. Soaps do have a longer shelf life, and I find they last longer than creams. That's better bang for the buck, imo. I also like that soaps typically have a lighter fragrance than creams. Soaps also don't tend to irritate my skin, but creams often do. I recommend, in no particular order, La Toja shave stick, Harris Arlington, Trumper's Rose, eShave Mandarin, Mitchell's Wool Fat (great winter soap but some find it difficult to use) or Pre de Provence (also moisturizing for winter and great value... big puck in a tin). L'Occitane Cade is nice, but it can be drying and irritating. Most like it though.

I know you didn't ask, but the best, hands down, alcohol free after shave I have ever found is Provence Sante Green Tea. Just call or email John at shavingessentials.net, and he'll get you set up with that (and whatever soap/cream you need). Don't be afraid to splash out a little for a nice soap in the beginning. It'll last a long time, and you'll end up buying good stuff anyway. Might as well do it right straight from the beginning, which is what it looks like you're doing with your brush purchase.

Enjoy, and welcome to B&B!
-Andy

 

[Luc]

I didn't use any of the two brushes but I would recommend the same than the above. Buy a soap and cream. I would start with a cream and then the soap.

 

[huntmol]

Cream is a bit easier to lather than soaps, but they are both good once you learn to lather properly.

I vote Rooney 3/1! Great brush!