Face Lathering Revisited
Prep: Hot shower
Pre: Proraso preshave - sensitive
Soap: Stirling Black Cumin & Orange
Brush: MÜHLE Kosmo silvertip synthetic
Razor: Weber + Bulldog
Blade: Rapira SS (2)
After: Aqua Velva Musk AS. ASB non needed
I've tried face lathering before with lackluster results. The lather always seemed to run out during the third pass. With the recent forum talk about face lathering I thought I'd give it a go again; and I'm really glad I did. Here's why...
Stirling always give me a bit of jip getting it to explode in the bowl but with some work it comes out nicely moussey. Today, not too long loading from the soap then straight to the face.
One reason I'm not keen on face lathering is that amount of swirling on the face can make the skin feel sore but using these synthetic soft bristles this is not an issue. I can mash the brush onto my face and the bristles splay nicely to a really good effect.
The lather grew easily, not very thick like in the bowl but just the right combination of slide and protection, perfect for the job. Stirling has more oil content to it and this allows the brush to hold more product and I had no problem with enough soap throughout all 3 passes. Another advantage for face lathering Stirling is that it enforces the scent which previously I'd found a problem with this product.
I'm thinking this Rapira blade my even top the Sputnik as best Weber combination, but it's a close call.
Result smooth, easy close shave and for once no need for ASB.
If anyone has put their Stirling at the back of their bathroom manbinet I'd urge them to give face lathering a go.
I'm sure there was something else to do today... oh yeah, Xmas shopping.
