The Gentle Guide to Shaving: History, Habits, and How We Do It at Friendly Soap
Welcome to a little chat about something we all do, but rarely talk about with much joy: shaving. It’s a daily ritual for many of us, yet the process is often focused on using foam. The average aerosol cream includes denatured alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfate, isobutane, and synthetic preservatives. Along with a canister and plastic lid as waste. Let’s change that narrative. Here at Friendly Soap, we believe self-care should be simple, sustainable, and kind to your skin.
A History: Why Do We Shave?
Our relationship with body hair goes back thousands of years. In the Stone Age, people used clam shells to pluck hair, while ancient Egyptians saw hairlessness as a symbol of purity for both men and women. For Greeks and Romans, it was practical - a clean-shaven face meant helmets fit better in battle! Back then, barbershops were social hubs, much like pubs are today.
Everything changed in the early 20th century when King Camp Gillette introduced the disposable razor. Suddenly, shaving moved from the barber to the bathroom, but this shift came with a catch. After WWI, companies needed new markets, so they began targeting women, framing natural body hair as “unattractive.” This marketing push created a massive industry built on insecurity. Women were pressured to maintain hairless skin.
Razors, Foams, Wax… Where Do I Start?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Skin types vary wildly. Some of us deal with sensitive skin, ingrown hairs, or razor burn; others glide through life with zero issues.
Many love waxing for its longevity - it’s quicker in the moment and lasts longer, which suits busy lifestyles or frequent travellers. But if you prefer shaving, let’s make sure you’re doing it in the kindest way possible.
Top Picks for a Kind Shave:
Shaving Gels & Bars: Yes, they can cost slightly more than basic body wash, but a dedicated shaving product acts as a hydrating lubricant. It protects your skin, prevents cuts, and gives you visibility so you don’t miss spots. Plus, many conventional foams are packed with irritants. Our Shaving Bar? Just plant-based oils and botanicals. Simple. Effective. Safe.
Best Practices for a Smooth, Soothing Shave
Let’s walk through how to transform shaving from a chore into a calming ritual.
- Prep Is Everything (Skip the Dry Shave!)
Always shave in the shower. Warm water softens hair and opens pores, making for a cleaner, gentler cut. If you’re rushing? Please, don’t dry shave. Wet the area with a towel or sit by the bath and splash water on first. It takes an extra minute, but it saves you from bumps, redness, and pain - Exfoliate Gently
Exfoliate every time. For sensitive skin, it’s non-negotiable. It removes dead skin cells, evens tone, unclogs pores, and primes your skin for moisture. Use a mild scrub - something with natural scents and gentle grains. Think of it as clearing the path for a smooth ride. - Lather Up with Care
This is where Friendly Soap’s Shaving Bar shines. It lathers beautifully, whether your skin is wet or dry, cleansing and soothing simultaneously. Apply generously to create a cushion between blade and skin.
Pro Tip: Always shave with the grain (in the direction hair grows). Going against it might feel closer initially, but it dramatically increases the risk of cuts and in-growths. Need a second pass? Rinse, re-lather, and go again only where needed.
In-a-Pinch Hack: Ran out of shaving product? Hair conditioner works wonders! It’s slippery, moisturising, and designed to coat hair gently. Not ideal long-term, but a lifesaver in emergencies. - Moisturise Deeply
Once you’re done and dried off, seal everything in with an organic body butter or rich moisturiser. This rebuilds your skin’s natural barrier, locks in hydration, and calms any residual redness. Your skin will thank you - and your skin will go from rough and dry to soft and hydrated.
Final Thoughts: Shave on Your Terms
You don’t need ten products, complicated routines, or guilt-tripping ads to feel confident. You just need what works for you. At Friendly Soap, we’re here to support you with ingredients that respect your body and the earth. No nasties, no waste, no nonsense.
So next time you step into the shower, take a breath. Enjoy the warmth. Choose kindness - for yourself, and for the world outside your door.
