Narrowing down soap selection

[iamcam]

Like many of you, I don’t have any local options for trying scents before purchasing. I’m a once or twice-weekly shaver, so product lasts a long time. I’m looking for some guidance in a couple scent families.

I have a couple samples in my cart from Maggard and eyeing a few containers elsewhere.

I really love the idea of the outdoors, forest, trees, nature, warm, and woody spice notes, but without smelling like a lumber yard.

I usually don’t mind light florals (I even tried of TOBS Rose - it was nice), and spice (B&M Bay rum was my first - it grew on me). Citrus can be quite nice.

I’m not sure about earthy or musky scents (tobacco, leather,?)- I’ve not tried any yet, but have some samples picked out. My wife also really doesn’t like the idea of smelling tobacco on me (neither of us smoke, but it’s more triggering for her).

I’m not a fan of classic barbershop scents - especially those with the slightly medicinal citrus (eg most of the “standard” TOBS scents like Eton College or B&M Seville). Not a fan of cooking/menthols.

Based on a couple of aquatic fragrances I sampled at the mall, I don’t think they are what I’m looking for.

- I’ve liked the TOBS citrus scents - some I almost wanted to eat!
- TOBS Royal Forest was quite nice, though slightly cloying.
- B&M bay rum took a while to grow on me and I would definitely consider another good option. I’d consider buying again except that I like
Variety and trying new things.
- Wholly Kaw fougere bouquet - I’m mixed in the scent. I use the splash daily and it’s just nice to have something complex linger for a little bit, but I’m not sure what the fougere family holds beyond this example.

On my short list to try… (most of these are samplers in my Magards cart, except Elysian which they don’t carry)

- Ariana and Evans - Sylvan Fog - not sure - no reviews
- chiseled face - summer storm
- Chiseled face - jarnvior - reads nice, zero reviews
-


- Wholly Kaw - King of Oud - not sure if this is going to be present tobacco too much
- chiseled face - ghost town barber - same, but it seems to be a crowd favorite


- Elysian Olympus
- Elysian - limoncello
- A&E Cuban highball
- A&E St Barts
- chiseled - Bay Rum
- chiseled face - Santa Paula
- Noble Otter - noir et vanille
- NO - Monoi de Tahiti
- NO - firefighter
- NO - Rawr

I have a few bay rum aftershave samples that I’ve seen highly recommended here also loaded in the cart. (Warm, spice)

Most of these are $3 samples, except the Elysian, which have to be purchased as a whole tub. I did similar samples with TOBS a couple years ago and found out I didn’t really care for most, so this is a lower cost trial and error without having to blindly commit.

Are any on this list standing out as “steer away from” based on what I think I’m steering toward? I’m not scent-smart, so it’s all challenging to read a label and have a man idea what it’s going to be like IRL.

Anyhow, thanks in advance!

 

[Lane101]

Like many of you, I don’t have any local options for trying scents before purchasing. I’m a once or twice-weekly shaver, so product lasts a long time. I’m looking for some guidance in a couple scent families.

I have a couple samples in my cart from Maggard and eyeing a few containers elsewhere.

I really love the idea of the outdoors, forest, trees, nature, warm, and woody spice notes, but without smelling like a lumber yard.

I usually don’t mind light florals (I even tried of TOBS Rose - it was nice), and spice (B&M Bay rum was my first - it grew on me). Citrus can be quite nice.

I’m not sure about earthy or musky scents (tobacco, leather,?)- I’ve not tried any yet, but have some samples picked out. My wife also really doesn’t like the idea of smelling tobacco on me (neither of us smoke, but it’s more triggering for her).

I’m not a fan of classic barbershop scents - especially those with the slightly medicinal citrus (eg most of the “standard” TOBS scents like Eton College or B&M Seville). Not a fan of cooking/menthols.

Based on a couple of aquatic fragrances I sampled at the mall, I don’t think they are what I’m looking for.

- I’ve liked the TOBS citrus scents - some I almost wanted to eat!
- TOBS Royal Forest was quite nice, though slightly cloying.
- B&M bay rum took a while to grow on me and I would definitely consider another good option. I’d consider buying again except that I like
Variety and trying new things.
- Wholly Kaw fougere bouquet - I’m mixed in the scent. I use the splash daily and it’s just nice to have something complex linger for a little bit, but I’m not sure what the fougere family holds beyond this example.

On my short list to try… (most of these are samplers in my Magards cart, except Elysian which they don’t carry)

- Ariana and Evans - Sylvan Fog - not sure - no reviews
- chiseled face - summer storm
- Chiseled face - jarnvior - reads nice, zero reviews
-


- Wholly Kaw - King of Oud - not sure if this is going to be present tobacco too much
- chiseled face - ghost town barber - same, but it seems to be a crowd favorite


- Elysian Olympus
- Elysian - limoncello
- A&E Cuban highball
- A&E St Barts
- chiseled - Bay Rum
- chiseled face - Santa Paula
- Noble Otter - noir et vanille
- NO - Monoi de Tahiti
- NO - firefighter
- NO - Rawr

I have a few bay rum aftershave samples that I’ve seen highly recommended here also loaded in the cart. (Warm, spice)

Most of these are $3 samples, except the Elysian, which have to be purchased as a whole tub. I did similar samples with TOBS a couple years ago and found out I didn’t really care for most, so this is a lower cost trial and error without having to blindly commit.

Are any on this list standing out as “steer away from” based on what I think I’m steering toward? I’m not scent-smart, so it’s all challenging to read a label and have a man idea what it’s going to be like IRL.

Anyhow, thanks in advance!

If you like an outdoor scent two options to consider, that are also available via black Friday sales are Pre de Provence (PdP) Bergamot and Thyme ($11.40 on Amazon) and Razorock What-the-Puck Green shaving stick for $2.49 on Italian Barber as a budget option. These are both vegan hard quad/triple milled soaps. Both are great with PdP having the more sophisticated scent and additional slickness.

Link to a current PdP review thread below, see my post on using it towards the end. It works really well with my "mug shaving soap" technique.

If you prefer a more floral scent Cyril R. Salter shaving soap pucks are excellent. These are tallow based and have an excellent scent that includes lavender. You can get these via Connaught Shaving in the U.K. for 4.50 British pounds each. Likely need to buy two or three or combine with another item or two to amortize the shipping. This soap uses the same base as D.R. Harris.

Link to PdP Thread:

Pre de Provence -- a short review

I purchased this hard soap at a local boutique-like shop, for a few dollars over the Amazon price (usually sold at a reasonable $15). The scent of the PDP No. 63 was what drew me in, as well as the forum's praise of the product. This soap will do the job, and it will do it quite well. But, it is...

www.badgerandblade.com

 

[iamcam]

Ah yes - I do like the Cyril R Salter citrus and Rose - I accidentally conflated those with TOBS.

The PdP sounded familiar - I have that scent in the balm. It’s nice - not my fav - but reminds of tending to my garden or cooking a savory meal.

 

[Markdad2]

May I suggest MdC Vetiver or Fougere? You will have a tub for about 4 years if you only shave twice a week!!!

 

[Lockback]

Since you like outdoor scents, you might try Coniferous and/or Evergreen Forest from Stirling Soap Company. Samples are, like, $4.25.

 

[NorthernSoul]

Here's a thought, get a soap with a very light, neutral scent or even unscented. Pair it up with an aftershave or cologne to get the scents you want. If you only shave twice a week, one soap is going to last you a long, long time. You might be tired of the scent before you finish it, but with a lightly scented soap it won't matter very much.

Shaving soap scents are really only supposed to last long enough to shave, and then fade away.

 

[iamcam]

Here's a thought, get a soap with a very light, neutral scent or even unscented. Pair it up with an aftershave or cologne to get the scents you want. If you only shave twice a week, one soap is going to last you a long, long time. You might be tired of the scent before you finish it, but with a lightly scented soap it won't matter very much.

Shaving soap scents are really only supposed to last long enough to shave, and then fade away.

I think that’s a good point. Generally I don’t mind a scent that doesn’t last long, and my after shave splashes and balms have been just enough to smell nice for a little while. It’s a nice compromise for my wife who is much more sensitive and usually doesn’t like anything extra.

Between the various samples I want to try, I’m sure to pick up an after shave based on how I like the corresponding soap.

 

[Jonn]

I have used about 25 or so soaps, mostly full jars, and some samples. My favorites are MDC and SV. They both lather easily (especially MDC), and produce a nice lather which is both structured and slick. Nothing wrong with the American artisan soaps you are considering, I just like these better.

 

[DesertIguana]

I like buying, SAMPLERS.

 

[BurnFree]

It really comes down to Buy & Try, but since we share some preferences, my ramblings are below...

The only fougeres I have tried:
1)Shannon's Forest City Fern - not sure how to describe, but I like it. Smells like Grandpa in a good way. Moderate persistence & projection for a shaving soap (not a cologne).
2)Razorock What the Puck Black label - Aramis...nope, not for me!
3)Stirling Varen (mutton) - I think it's a fougere?, grassy & bold. Pretty much as-described on website. I am a long-time user of unscented Sheep and tried some scented versions for variety. I appreciate Varen for what it is, it is just too much for me.

4)I recently coughed for an MdC Fougere sample and entered Fougere Nirvana. Wow! MdC scents always sounded good; wish I had tried them sooner. I wholeheartedly 2nd @Markdad2 's suggestion.

Unfortunately I'm lukewarm on the soap's performance after two shaves. You may be different, as-is the majority of those who have tried MdC. It is still early and I have a few things to try, but can't justify the acquisition cost unless it is going to become a daily driver. You can bet there will be more scents arriving if it works out. SV soaps have been the opposite problem, giving wonderful shaves with overly "complex" cologne scents (2). I stopped using Felce, but will finish Morado seasonally.

Stirling? A Coniferous shaving sample and full-size bath bar were indeed a little "lumberyardy." I liked it, but the family did not, and the oakmoss presumably caused some mild face irritation.

Scots Pine (sheep) scent is also okay, but smells like it is covering up the sheep tallow...because it is. The bath bar soap (presumably with less tallow) smells better. Evergreen Forest was pretty strong, "synthetic," and reminded me more of Christmas yankee candles than a douglass fir stand in the pacific northwest. Mountain Man was fresh-floral, but strong and received a Spousal Veto. British Leather was also strong & mostly as-described, except for an after-scent that seemed a little off. Also Vetoed. Electric Sheep will keep the mosquitos away all summer if you are okay with a citronella bomb. It was $5 for 1oz of seasonal fun and the spouse is going to have to pick other battles! You might be interested in their bay rum and citrus stuff, but keep in mind that most Stirling scents aren't "subtle."

It's been very tempting to try Mike's woody or lavender options, both for the reputed base & scents. Hungarian Lavender is in stock right now at Maggards

Moon keeps coming up.
Mystic Water
Sudsy Soapery
...all seem enticing...none have samples...too many options & not enough time or money

Haslinger is on my eventual Hit List when there is reason to make a purchase, but the desired flavor (or several) have always been out of stock during sales or when placing another order. I refuse to pay full US price + shipping solely for a 2oz puck (hard as it may be) with other good soaps available...at least until the itch becomes too strong.

Ghost Town Barber smells like gunpowder and something else strange. It is not a typical barbershop (if there is such a thing). Not offensive, but not mild or pleasant, and it immediately burned my face. It hand-lathered nicely though. Most of the scent options seem to be on the adventurous side, but at least there are samples. Stirling Barbersharp is my idea of Barbershop, but with too much baby powder.

I enjoy many Shannons scents and think the soap is good enough for frequent use. This year's 25% price hike on her base soaps makes them less enticing though, either for taking a chance on an entire tub, or to restock something fun that only gets used once in a while. Samples are often out of stock, but Lavender Lemongrass, Black Magic, and Aussie Ice are all nicely done IMO. She's got a tobacco scent in the better Chupacabra base that others have commented favorably on - that or Zingari's version (which is probably stronger) would be my entry point into the genre. Have not tried any tobacco scents myself, but I think the smell of most pipe tobacco is far more pleasant than smoke & cigarettes.

Zingari Man is definitely worth a sample. It would not be a blind buy for me due to the scents. NB: Nomad is discontinued even though the sample is still avaible. I have Explorer (discontinued) and a sample of Socialite that is frigid and smells like a gin factory as advertised.

Don't forget about Proraso or Bigelow! The current formula is excellent IMO, tub or cream, and it's a right of passage. Green has a unique scent that you'll love or hate, but it's gone in a couple hours. Blue is more persistent on my skin, but mild...kind of an aqua cologne thingy, which is not my typical cup of tea but does not offend anyone either. It is cheap to try an entire tube plus samples (soap only) @ Maggards. If anyone enjoyed the scents but not the performance 10 years ago, it is worth trying again.

Cella? Great soap (either base) with not so great scents IMO. I actually like the tallow based marzipan "Dr. Pepper" red bowl best. It does not seem to linger post-shave, and might offer cheap den variety without offending the Spouse. It is less sweet than TFS red bowl (also not lingering) or Razorock P160 (stronger, with skin reaction for me). I never got over Cella Bio's pink pepper/Axe after-scent. It was ok during the shave, but the worst notes took several hours to dissipate. A recent sample of Riserva Fresco seems to shave the same as Bio, but I disliked the stale floral scent, and it too persists. Someone else will have to try the sandlewood. Mechanically, Cella Red and Green/veggie are both excellent. Different, but excellent.

Can't help you on most of the artisans, but would certainly like to hear what you think of Noble Otter and MacDuff in particular.

Have fun!

 

[gpjoe]

May I suggest MdC Vetiver or Fougere? You will have a tub for about 4 years if you only shave twice a week!!!

Both are wonderfully simple scents that are not cologne-y. To my nose, the Vetyver has a distinct earthy note but is very nice.

I recently picked up a tin of SV Desert Vetiver, and it is also very nice, without the earthy note. Very good stuff.

...and a quick note on tobacco scents, I found the following description doing a quick search:


"Tobacco is a commonly used note in the sweeter and more intense colognes. Many people initially think that they won’t like the note of tobacco because of its reputation. However, tobacco in fragrances is the sweet, unlit kind. The note itself doesn’t give off an ash-like scent, but rather a sweet and comforting scent."


It doesn't smell like burning tobacco.

 

[Doc Dan]

If you like outdoorsy scents, B&M Taiga is really good. It is northern pine (not southern yellow or longleaf). I love Cella Red (sweet almond oil) and if I had to only have one that would be it. The scent softens as you use it and it doesn't last all day, but does last about three hours. If you order from Maggards, just get a bunch of samples this go round and see what you like.

 

[Roy]

I've tried lots of soap over my years, all prices.
However, I've decided that the best and which I'll buy using from now on are...
SV, MDC, acqua di parna any of the scents of these.
I'll also use Meußner soaps but they are currently not here in uk. All pricier products,but I find them luxurious to use, kind to my skin and with a good badger brush fabulous to face lather.

 

[kingfisher]

I don't know if LA Soap Company is still in business, but if they are, and you want to try another Fougere, their Topanga Fougere is really nice.

Edited to add that they apparently still are in business, and they still offer Topanga Fougere, as well as a scent called Blackfern, which sound like it might also be up your alley.

 

[Tomo]

I tried all sorts of products when I started looking for the perfect soap. Through that process I learned a few things.

1. There are many soaps with excellent performance.
2. Quite a few of them give me an adverse skin reaction.
3. I tend to tire of strong scents quickly and prefer lighter, neutral and more natural scents long term.
4. I don’t care for croaps

Through the process of discovery I wound up with way too much stuff. 8-12 seems to be an ideal number for me. That gives me enough variety and it means that things actually do get used up eventually. I’ve stopped searching for a magical base and I’ve narrowed down my selection by sticking to the following principles

1. I stick with European hard soaps and creams
2. I stick with brands that I know don’t react to my skin
3. I avoid international shipping costs and only order things that I can get locally.
4. I keep my selection within the 8-12 items bracket.
5. I don’t stockpile discontinued products
6. I don’t chase multiple scents of the same product.

That’s been working pretty well for me the last couple of years.

 

[Steve56]

It really comes down to Buy & Try,

Yes, but start at the top and work your way down, you’ll save money.

 

[ErkRusselReserve]

Texas on Fire sample

Worst case is you use it to layer in a bit of smoke into other soaps.

Best case is- Texas on Fire.

 

[gdawg55]

I’m going to suggest something not talked about very much…..Ogallala Bay Rum and Sweet Orange, Sage and Cedar, and or Limes and Peppercorn. These all smell wonderful, aren’t crazy strong, and reasonably priced with excellent performance. One of my favorite soap brands. I really enjoy bay rum mixed with other scents.

 

[kingfisher]

If you like citrus scents, another strong recommendation would be Ethos Bergamotto 'cream.' It's really a soft soap. Has bergamot and a fair bit of grapefruit. It smells amazing. Not cheap

 

[JimmySmooth]

Wholly Kaw King of Oud is one the greatest scents on the planet!!

Out of all the scents and soaps out there I think its my favourite if I had to chose only one.

Its a stunning fragrance and one I save for very special shaves.