Lanolin in Shave Soaps? Yes or No

[tania@lupusrex]

I'm currently working on a new shave soap recipe but undecided on adding anhydrous lanolin.

I have read mixed reviews on the benefits of lanolin, so just wondering what everyone's opinion is on lanolin in shave soap and if it's popular or not.

 

[SpeedyPC]

Yes and No. YMMV

Yes, it great for the skin.

No, because, most men and women can be allergic to lanolin which can cause skin irritation.

 

[tania@lupusrex]

Yes, it's the FLA (Free Lanolin Alcohols) that are mainly responsible for skin sensitising and irritation. Wondering if a hypoallergenic lanolin was used then by reducing/eliminating the irritation components could just be all upside in a shave soap.

 

[TomG]

My 2 cents worth - I love lanolin in many shaving soaps, creams, emulsions.
It works wonderfully well for me.

 

[Nanook]

I'm a big fan of lanolin in shave soaps. it helps create a silky feel to the leather and softens the skin.

 

[Gargravarr]

Lanolin works great in Stirling and Mystic Water soaps (among others). But yes, it can cause irritation for some people.

 

[Nanook]

Lard is another additive that gives the lather a silky feel. My wife uses it in most of her soaps that she makes.

 

[tania@lupusrex]

@Nanook - agreed. I have used lard in my mechanics soap but not in shave soap. I think I will test batch a hypoallergenic lanolin shave soap just to see what it's like.
If anyone is interested in trying some once it is ready let me know and I can post some out to you.

 

[Pbgoose]

Yes to lanolin.

 

[Razor Burn]

I don't mind lanolin so a yes from me!