When it comes to shaving soap, it can be hard to choose between types, brands, and fragrances. We’re breaking down the basics of tallow and glycerin shaving soaps. Some users don’t notice too much of a difference while others find it difficult to find similarities between the two. While there are many sub-categories within the two (triple-milled, vegan, etc.), we’re looking only at the basics. Try one of each and let us know what you think!
Tallow-Based
Tallow is one of the most common and popular ingredients found in shaving soap. Taken from animals, tallow is an animal fat, more specifically a triglyceride, derived from fat in beef, sheep, and other animals. Its composition is very similar to human fat, making it a great source of nourishment for skin. Rich in natural nourishing properties, it works to lubricate and moisturize skin and is ideal for generating rich lathers.
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Glycerin-Based
Glycerin is a by product of soap derived from either tallow-based soaps or vegetable-oil based soaps. It’s also generally enhanced with alcohol and extra glycerin. These soaps are considered to be gentler on skin as they provide greater lubrication.
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Photo c/o Caswell Massey
| TALLOW | GLYCERIN | |
|---|---|---|
| SOURCE | - Animal Fat (usually from beef) | - Animal or vegetable-based |
| TEXTURE | - Semi-Hard to Hard | - Semi-Hard to Hard |
| LATHER | - Rich, creamy lather - Triple-milled versions are known to perform better | - Rich lather - Easier to generate |
| SKIN TYPE | - Suitable for all skin types | - Suitable for all skin types - Recommended for sensitive skin |
| COST | - $-$$$ | - $-$$ |
| RECOMMENDED | - Fendrihan Robusto Shaving Soap, Made in the Netherlands - Cella Almond Soft Shaving Soap, Barbershop Size 1 Kg - Van Der Lovett Shaving Soap | - Fendrihan Shaving Soap, made in the Netherlands - Col. Conk Shaving Soaps - Geo F. Trumper |
Final Thoughts
There is no winner of tallow vs glycerine. It depends on what works best with your skin. Shop all shaving soaps here!
