I've only used two creams in my journey, CO Bigelow and TOBS. I only use pucks now.
First I’ve heard of using bar soap to shave. I’m not brave enough to try that…lol. I do the traditional full shave routine every day. I work from home so I don’t have to get up super early to get my shave in. I can do it whenever I have time. Most days I shower and shave after I take the kids to school.
The only time I shave with bar soap,
is when I shave in the shower.
I use Ivory soap.
I soap up my face and brush my teeth.
Then I rinse off and resoap my face and wash my hair.
Then I soap my face again and shave with a Super Speed.
No brush, no mirror, it's extremely easy.
Years ago I had the same thoughts about shaving as you. As time went on I stuck with shave soap and a brush like I was taught. I have a good routine down and not much time on work week mornings. So, once out of the shower it only takes me about 15 minutes for a good shave and all that traditional stuff. I do linger a bit more on the weekends though.I have used shaving soaps, and I actually prefer the creams, but after trying a couple of over the counter, reasonably priced creams, I'm done with all of it. I started on this journey just using store bought bar soap, and I'm going back to it. Yeah, some of the soaps, and creams I bought were nice, but I am not an affictionado of any of them. Not spending $20 on a puck, or less, when I can get the same, or better shave from the bar soap sitting on my bathroom sink. Just me, and not trying to sound cheap, but I have spent a few bucks on this hobby, and although I enjoy a great shave as much as the next guy, and the ME time this style of shaving affords, I am going back to the soap I started this journey on. I hardly ever use my brush anymore, except for a weekend shave. During the week I love using my DE, in the morning, just don't use the brush that much, with the time I have. Work up a lather in my hands, wash my face, rinse, lather up again with the soap I wash my face, and I get a really close shave, that is close, not irritating, and leaves my face feeling smooth. A good rinse, and pat dry. Apply my after shave, and on my way. Time is just not on my side in the morning, and I'm not getting up 30-45 minutes earlier just to do all that traditional shaving stuff, and the clean up of the brush, and the bowl. Nice on the weekend, when time is not the enemy. Like I said, I started using bar soap when I got my first DE razor, and I am happy with it at this time. The blades I use are Wilkinson Sword from Germany, and they give me a close, comfortable shave. The Wilkie is paired with my Parker 91R, and is a great combination, with never any irritation. I love all things DE, just not for me to spend a lot of money doing this morning necessity. Possibly when I retire, I will look at this again, with more time on my hands. At this time, I am very comfortable using the soap on the sink...
I'm retired so I can usually take my time. If I'm not in a hurry, I'll use a soap/bowl/brush usually but sometimes I do opt for Cremo just because I think it's such a fantastic product. Granted, not as relaxing but slick and smooth.I alternate between soaps and creams. I've "generally" found that I get a better shave with soaps (Cremo the exception) but they are usually reserved for weekends when I have more time. I use Cremo or Barbasol pre-shower for the "quick and dirty"shaves - no need for brushes, pre-shave routine etc - just throw some hot water on face and apply cream. If I have a little bit more time, I will use a cream w/brush (post-shower) - e.g. TOBS Sandalwood with synthetic brush (no need to soak a synthetic). On a weekend, I will opt for a soap for a longer and more relaxing shave. I've found there are lots of ways to slice it (ouch, did I say slice?) so that you can basically find whatever works for your time needs while still having an enjoyable and fruitful shaving experience.
I started on this journey just using store bought bar soap, and I'm going back to it.
I don't have a problem with lubrication, and my face never feels dry after I shave. The razor glides very easily over my face, and I get DFS, doing basically one pass WTG..To each his own would be correct...If that is what you believe works best for you, then you should stick to it.
I am however of the opinion that shaving soaps and creams are formulated differently from bar soaps and that bar soap is only a poor substitute (been there, done that) that lacks the emollients and lubrication of a product that is specifically designed to be used for shaving.
You save money - I have better lubrication.
To each his own…
B.