Review (5/5): First impressions and real review
First Impressions: I purchased this particular product because I am a sucker for OUD scents, I have to tell you, you put OUD anywhere on anything for me , and hey you got yourself a sale. On the other hand my weakness didn't lead me to this soap only because of its scent. I know this company and its owner for a while and I have given this specific product a pre test run. Yes this review is after I got this container the second time. I wanted to write a review that is clear, descriptive and lives to the expectations to anyone that respects this way of life ( wet shaving with straights and DE razors).
Hands down, Douglas Smyth ( the owner of this company) does handmade miracles when it comes to wet shaving. And I am happy that when he knew about my interest in OUD not only he made this scent but came out with another 6 OUD inspired soaps after this. However you might ask me.... "why review this product?" Well out of all the OUD scents that are present under his belt this one is my favorite. This scent is sandalwood and OUD; my first ever purchase of a shaving soap ever was The Art of Shaving sandalwood soap, and sorry but I have to say that it's the best sandalwood shaving soap in the market and will always be. The scent is powdery and woodsy, and what a man should smell like. There are many SW inspired soaps out there by countless makers , the art of shaving is the top in that scent.
Which brings me to the Sangre De Draco !
I remember the first time I opened this container my eyes teared, in joy! The sandalwood in this soap has the same spirit as the art of shaving but the difference here it's stronger and with OUD wood on top of it. The only perfumes out there can think of that can be paired with this is the Aqua Di Parma OUD or the art of shaving sandal wood cologne. I would literally spend hours sniffing this puck and just smile all day. ( I always sniff this container just by entering the den)
Experience: people might say sorry man the smell isn't strong : well hold your horses most shaving soaps are lightly scented when dry. The smell explodes once bloomed , lathered , or when you're shaving . This happened to me although the scent came off as light before I added water to it I knew that scent was going to be a joy once I am shaving.
The container advises to load the brush for 10 seconds. Sorry I load all my shaving soaps a good 30 second. That's what works for me, and I find it easier to dial the water with that strategy to get the best quality lather.
The lather holds a rich white sheen, very slick even if you're not using a preshave. ( you can use the bloom water as a preshave with this product it will put a smile on your face!)
The lather once on the face doesn't dissipate or dries off, I know this because I have used a shavvette, straight razor and a DE razor with this soap. When using shavettes I would like to take my time with my shave in order not to end up slashing myself and causing a blood bath. With some soaps out there I might have to re apply my opposite side of my face to ensure face protection and fresh soap cushion, this was not the case with this soap.
Not only this is a good performing, smelling, and protecting soap , but the feel of slickness I get after rinsing my face off when I finish my shave is amazing. When I use this product I don't waste a drop of lather, bloom water or even a bubbly foam. I use it all on my face because there is something in the artisan way it's created that just makes you feel your face is dying of thirst for it. Try it and you and your face will thank me.
Ps . Unfortunately the aftershave of this product is not available on Amazon. I kindly urge you if you have the interest of this product to purchase the splash and lotion from the owner of this product through his website. I have the balm and it's amazing. Great feel , the smell is carried with you for a long time, and you know your skin is safe and sound. Shave on!