06/17/2026
While on vacation in Topsail Island, NC, I stumbled upon a local shop full of soaps, candles, lotions, scrubs, oils, and more — and met an incredibly talented woman who makes her own shave soaps along with all of those other products. I’ve never met an artisan in person who specifically makes soaps for shaving, so it was a real treat to talk wet shaving, shave soap, and even turning shave brushes.
I picked up her Bay Rum shave soap and couldn’t wait to try it.
I have 5 criteria for a great shave soap:
1. Ease of creating lather
2. Quality of lather
3. Scent after lathering
4. Slickness
5. Post-shave feel
This soap absolutely delivered on all 5.
It loads easily, loves water, and builds a creamy, thick lather. The Bay Rum scent is fantastic — balanced, not overpowering, and full of character. The slickness is excellent, the shave is comfortable, and my skin feels great afterward.
It honestly feels like I just walked out of an old-school barber shop.
Support local. Support small businesses. Support artisans who care deeply about their craft.
