Ingredient Deep Dives: What’s Really in Your Shaving Products?

When it comes to wet shaving, most men focus on razors, blades, and brushes—but what about the actual ingredients in your shaving soap, cream, or aftershave? At Shaving Time, we believe great grooming starts with knowledge. Understanding what’s inside your products helps you choose the best shaving supplies for your skin type—and avoid ingredients that may cause irritation.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients in quality men's grooming supplies, and highlight a few top-tier products—including some of our favorites from Stirling Soap Co.

1. Glycerin – The Moisture Magnet

Glycerin is a humectant that draws water into the skin. It helps create a slick, protective lather that minimizes irritation and razor burn, while locking in hydration.

 Top Picks:

• Stirling Soap Co. Aftershave Splash – Executive Man
• Luxuriously scented and packed with glycerin and witch hazel to hydrate and refresh your skin post-shave.
• NSC Aftershave Splash – Juniper
• Soothes with glycerin, aloe, and witch hazel.

2. Tallow – The Traditional Powerhouse

Tallow is a rich base for shaving soaps that creates a thick, cushioning lather. It’s beloved for its performance and post-shave feel.

 Try This:

• Stirling Soap Co. Shave Soap – Barbershop
• A classic, tallow-based soap with an old-school scent and incredible slickness.
• Stirling Soap Co. Shave Soap – Sandpiper
• Smooth, masculine scent with the glide only tallow can provide.

3. Plant Butters – Skin-Softening Superstars

Butters like shea, kokum, cupuaçu, and murumuru hydrate deeply and help create a luxurious, protective lather—ideal for sensitive skin.

 Must-Try:

• Nordic Shaving Company Natural Unscented Soap
• Packed with 7 natural butters and jojoba oil for a butter-rich, non-irritating shave.
• Stirling Soap Co. Unscented with Beeswax
• Perfect for sensitive skin, with shea butter and beeswax for cushion and protection.

4. Witch Hazel – Nature’s Astringent

Witch hazel reduces redness, tightens pores, and calms post-shave irritation. It’s a must-have for many aftershave formulas.

 Best Choices:

• Stirling Soap Co. Aftershave Splash – Sharp Dressed Man
• A gentleman’s scent meets the toning power of witch hazel and alcohol.
• NSC Aftershave Splash – Birch
• Crisp, clean scent and packed with natural astringents.
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5. Aloe Vera – The Calming Hero

Aloe vera is known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a staple in top-tier post-shave products.

 Top Picks:

• Stirling Soap Co. Aftershave Balm – Margaritas in the Arctic
• Aloe, menthol, and nourishing oils deliver a cool, calm post-shave experience.
• NSC Aftershave Splash – Citrus & Ginger
• Calms and hydrates with aloe and glycerin in a zesty scent.

6. Essential Oils – Scent with Benefits

Essential oils like juniper, citrus, and ginger not only smell great—they offer antibacterial and calming effects, too. But be mindful if you have sensitive skin.

 Great Options:

• Stirling Soap Co. Shave Soap – Orange Chill
• Essential orange oil paired with menthol—invigorating and naturally uplifting.
• NSC Soap – Juniper or Grapefruit
• Scented with real fruit oils and packed with nourishing plant-based ingredients.

Why It Matters

Knowing your ingredients empowers you to make better grooming choices. Whether you're exploring online shaving supplies, shopping from a men's grooming supplies store near you, or just refining your daily ritual, quality ingredients matter.

At Shaving Time, we stock only the best: artisan soaps, natural aftershaves, precision razors, and ingredient-rich products from the world’s best brands—including Stirling Soap Co.

Build Your Ingredient-Smart Shave Kit

Looking for the best shaving supplies for men? Shop premium shave supply brands like:

• Stirling Soap Co. – for unbeatable value and performance
• NSC – vegan, butter-based excellence from Finland
• Tatara Razors – precision Portuguese razors for the perfect shave
• PAA – innovative soaps and splashes with serious style

 Explore our full range of men's grooming supplies here and take your shaving ritual to the next level—with smarter ingredients and superior products.