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Why so many shaving creams and gels still contain soap instead of syndet?
Are soaps superior to synthetic surfactants for shaving applications in any way?
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4 Replies
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I was curious about this and I went a little way to try synthetic surfactants and yes, I made an adequate shaving cream first try. It was basically a carbomer gel with sodium cocoamphoacetate and CAPB.
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As per my understanding based on the preferences of two men who I know and who prefer “old fashioned” shaving soaps, soaps are less slippery which allows the better (closer?) “connection” between the skin and the razor (razor doesn’t slip over and there is no need to shave the same area several times). At least that’s how they explained it to me.
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I don’t know the answer but perhaps synthetic surfactants haven’t provided a significant benefit over the most popular product.
On the other hand, this popular brand here in the US uses Stearic Acid and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. https://barbasol.com/collections/shaving-cream/products/barbasol-original-thick-rich-shaving-cream-7-oz-pack-of-6
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I’ve seen it argued that the alkaline pH of soaps helps soften the hair prior to shaving; however, as I have very thick, coarse, product-resistant facial hair I can’t personally confirm or deny this
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