Although I do like the fragrance a lot, I think l’Occitane’s shaving soap is merely okay. It certainly falls short of the quality of the shaving soaps from good small producers (Catie’s Bubbles, Wholly Kaw, Declaration Grooming, and many others). But it is an okay shaving soap, and with a good synthetic brush — like the Yaqi Target Shot shown — one can get a good (and very nicely fragrant) lather that will get the job done.
And RazoRock’s Old Type does the job easily and smoothly, with remarkable efficiency. This razor always surprises me with how very good it is — amazingly good, given its low price, which varies somewhat depending on your choice of handle. Unfortunately the excellent handle shown in the photo was available only on first release, but with the superb Barber Pole handle, the razor is only US$20.
Three passes left my face smooth, and a splash (several sprays into my hand) of Cade EDT with two squirts of Grooming Dept Hydrating Gel finished the job in fine style.
The tea this morning is Murchie’s London Afternoon. “Fragrant rose petals are interwoven with smoky Lapsang Souchong, sweetened with creamy vanilla and a touch of bright bergamot to create a comforting blend perfect for the fireside.”