What does a shaving foam do?

Shaving is a crucial part of grooming for many people, and it’s important to understand the tools and techniques involved in achieving a clean and smooth shave. One of the many tools available in the shaving ‘locker’ is a lather or foam. Though not essential, a good lather can play a vital role in ensuring a comfortable and effective shave. 

In this blog piece, we will discuss the role of a lather in shaving and why it’s a great tool to have in your shaving arsenal. 

What is a lather?

A lather is a mixture of shaving cream or soap and water that is applied to the face or body before shaving. It is created by mixing the soap or cream with water and then whisking it into a frothy foam using a shaving brush. This can either be done in a shaving soap bowl or directly on to the skin. Personally, when using Pure Shave I prefer lathering up directly onto the skin. This way the active ingredients have a longer time to work on the stubble, making them easier to cut.  

Firstly lets smash a myth!! 

The idea that a foam or lather helps the stubble “stand up” to be shaved is a common myth. The hair on our bodies grows at different angles and directions, and the direction of hair growth is largely determined by genetics. The angle of the hair follicle is also predetermined, and a lather cannot change this.

Why is a lather useful for shaving?

While it is true that the main function of a lather is to act as a lubricant and soften the hair, there are several reasons why lathering up a shaving cream or soap can be beneficial for achieving a smooth and comfortable shave.

Coverage

A lather provides better coverage and adherence to the skin than a cream or soap alone. The foam created by a lather helps to spread the shaving cream evenly over the skin and adhere to the hair, ensuring that each hair is thoroughly coated and softened. This can help to reduce the risk of missed spots and uneven cutting, leading to a more even and precise shave.

Barrier

Lather or foam can help to create a barrier between the skin and the razor blade, reducing friction and irritation. This can be especially important for those with sensitive skin or prone to razor burn, as the cushioning effect of the lather can help to protect the skin from damage and irritation.

Enjoyment!

Creating a lather can be an enjoyable and relaxing part of the shaving process. The act of creating a rich, creamy lather with a shaving brush can be a calming and meditative experience, and many people enjoy the tactile sensation of the brush on their skin. The Pure Shave brush is excellent at this and creates such a thick lather – click HERE for more info 

Soften

Finally and personally I think the most important, a lather can also help to soften the hair and make it easier to cut (especially if you are using Pure Shave Shaving cream). That being said I think this has more to do with a shaving cream or soap formula than the foam itself, so make sure you use an excellent one to start with. This can help to prevent ingrown hairs and other issues that can arise from a rough or uneven shave.

Finally, Economy!

Using a lather can help to extend the life of your shaving cream or soap. By whisking a small amount of cream or soap into a lather, you can create a much larger volume of product that will last longer and provide a better shave.

In summary,

While a cream or soap alone can provide lubrication and soften the hair, lathering up a shaving cream or soap can provide better coverage and adherence, create a barrier between the skin and the razor blade, be an enjoyable part of the shaving process, and help to extend the life of your shaving product.

How do you create a good lather? Check out our blog on How to use a shaving brush. 

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