Mama Bear Soaps pt 2

[AJS]

Today was my first day using any type of shaving soap (had the L'occitane and Floris for a while but haven't used them yet) and I have a few observations that I would like to share.
Firstly the MB soaps themselves smell very nice. Given the widespread consternation my gushing over the Nancy Boy products caused I will be more restrained here, but I do like the olfactory experience these soaps provided.
Given that I have only received them today, I haven't got much beyond smelling most of the different varieties but as far as the scents go I would say that the real standout quality of these soaps is the combination of different fragrances and the way they combine. The scents are expertly layered and it is this dynamic interplay of different aromas that makes them special. The Elements of Bamboo soap is the weakest smelling of the four I ordered (still nice though) but the other three are STRONG. Christmas Forest Frgarance almost made my eyes water (in a good way) and Dragons Blood and Celestial Waters are both first rate. The soaps themselves represent excellent value for money and even with shipping to the UK I only paid $35 for the four soaps, the cost being roughly the same as the CADE shave soap (maybe slightly less) They come in a standard plastic tub, but each has a different graphic on the tub representing the various fragrances, not as nice as the CADE metal bowl, but given the value of these soaps there are no grounds for complaint.
Onto the shave, this was my first time using a soap, for a fair assessment I will need a lot more time to try them with different brushes and different techniques. With that said, for a first time experience I got good results from these soaps. I am still using my beleaguered BK4 (for those who advised me to send it back, I thankyou for the advice, and I am sure that a more sensible person would have followed it, but I am an idiot. I will stick to this brush until my Superior and Shavemac brushes arrive and I also have a PJ so there will be more to choose from soon) and I didn't think that the Kent, being so soft, would be ideally suited to soaps, but the Celestial Waters lathered very nicely. The lather itself was much less cushioning than I am used to, but there was definitely much more slip than with a cream so the shave was still smooth. The use of a soap allowed me to get a much better shave with the Slant Bar, but without the added protection of a cream I should have been more delicate than I was. Still, there were no nicks and cuts, and certainly no loss of blood, and any fault can be traced back to my technique (or lack thereof.)
Still, given that this was my first time using a soap the results were very encouraging, and I am certain that the quality of the soaps themselves played a huge role in how positive an experience this was.
As for the Celestial Waters, it has a perfumed, floral scent. I would have expected something slightly lighter and slightly more fresh given the name, but this is what I would describe as a Meadow scent, the balance of wildflowers is nice with the honeysuckle scent coming to the fore. It has considerable staying power too and I like it a lot. It's moisturising qualities obviously aren't the same as a cream, but my skin is reassuringly soft and given the havoc the Nancy Boy Facial Cleanser has been playing with my skin the results could have been a lot worse.
Before I can give a definitive review of these soaps I will need to spend more time with them, and on improving my techniques. But overall, the initial results are promising, for my continued use of soaps in general and Mama Bear in particular.
Warm regards,
Alex

[Kyle]

Nicely done, AJS. Thanks for the info.

[roughrider]

Thanks for the info. Keep us updated.

[RWelch76]

I guess this thread is as good as any to weigh in on my Mama Bear experience :eek:

After reading all the grand reviews, I just had to try some of this stuff. So, I ordered the Hydrogen, Rosemary Mint and Sandlewood. Sue emailed me, stating the Sandlewood wouldn't ship until next week and if I wanted to wait to ship all 3, or ship the other 2 now and the SW next week. At this point, I simply asked her to substitute the SW with another, similar fragrance. After giving her a few details of my skin type and such, I even gave her carte blanche as to the substitute, as I like a surprise :tongue_sm

Her response was: "Hmmmmmm. Why don't I go into the kitchen and create a new scent just for you?" :w00t: :w00t: :lol: :lol:

I must say that I can't really recall EVER getting this level of customer service and attention. Dealing with Sue has just been great and she now has a customer for life! To top it all off, 2 soaps arrived TODAY.........and all this took place 2 days ago!! She went ahead and shipped the Hydrogen and RM and is experimenting with my other scent now.

If you haven't ordered any of these fine soaps yet, please don't hesitate any longer. You'll not find a better deal and will be hard-pressed to find an equal to her level of customer service. Bravo!!!!

[Rik]

I guess this thread is as good as any to weigh in on my Mama Bear experience :eek:

After reading all the grand reviews, I just had to try some of this stuff. So, I ordered the Hydrogen, Rosemary Mint and Sandlewood. Sue emailed me, stating the Sandlewood wouldn't ship until next week and if I wanted to wait to ship all 3, or ship the other 2 now and the SW next week. At this point, I simply asked her to substitute the SW with another, similar fragrance. After giving her a few details of my skin type and such, I even gave her carte blanche as to the substitute, as I like a surprise :tongue_sm

Her response was: "Hmmmmmm. Why don't I go into the kitchen and create a new scent just for you?" :w00t: :w00t: :lol: :lol:

I must say that I can't really recall EVER getting this level of customer service and attention. Dealing with Sue has just been great and she now has a customer for life! To top it all off, 2 soaps arrived TODAY.........and all this took place 2 days ago!! She went ahead and shipped the Hydrogen and RM and is experimenting with my other scent now.

If you haven't ordered any of these fine soaps yet, please don't hesitate any longer. You'll not find a better deal and will be hard-pressed to find an equal to her level of customer service. Bravo!!!!
It's a shame more companies aren't able to do this. Thanks for sharing!

[rtaylor61]

Rik,

Based on your last order, aren't you now the majority stock holder in Sue's company? :lol:

Randy

[Rik]

Rik,

Based on your last order, aren't you now the majority stock holder in Sue's company? :lol:

Randy
:lol: I never thought of it like that. It's like shaving with gold. I'm rich! I'm rich! Oh wait a minute, it just went down the drain. Ah such is life. Life's too short to not stop and take a wiff of the shaving products. :smile:

[rtaylor61]

:lol: I never thought of it like that. It's like shaving with gold. I'm rich! I'm rich! Oh wait a minute, it just went down the drain. Ah such is life. Life's too short to not stop and take a wiff of the shaving products. :smile:

I know what you mean. Life is too short not to stop and smell the roses, and the rosemary mint, and the patchouli, and the vetiver...

Randy

[Clark]

I am getting ready to make an order and was going to purchase more QED soaps but after reading this thread I am thinking of going with Mamma. How does mamma stack up against QED?

[AJS]

My second day with Mama Bear soaps I decided to go with Dragon's Blood. As far as performance goes this provided the same amount of incredibly lubricating lather as the Celestial Water's (in other words it is an excellent performer.) Unfortunately for me, this stuff burns with the intensity of a thousand suns:cursing: I don't think I have ever experienced quite so much pain from a grooming product in my life. I have seen a couple of reports of bad reactions to this particular scent so I guess one of the ingredients just doesn't agree with us sensitive skinned types. Still, it is a very good soap and the smell is out of this world. It is an exotic and intense perfume, the Vanilla really stands out, and the staying power is amazing. I shaved with this yesterday and the scent lingered on my hands and face all day . Waking up this morning it was still present and whats more, my brush, my towel, in fact my whole house absolutely reeks of this incredible aroma. If you like staying power in your scents then this is the one to go for.
Warm regards,
Alex

[soulshine]

i'm sorry to hear of your burning sensation! i had a similar experince last week with some soap from the gentlemen's quarter. the scent was outstanding, my wife commented numerous times about it & i was dumb enough to give it a second try thinking a scrub caused the problem. day two sans scrub and it was even worse than the day before!

s~s

gotta get on the mama bear train soon.

[Rik]

My second day with Mama Bear soaps I decided to go with Dragon's Blood. As far as performance goes this provided the same amount of incredibly lubricating lather as the Celestial Water's (in other words it is an excellent performer.) Unfortunately for me, this stuff burns with the intensity of a thousand suns:cursing: I don't think I have ever experienced quite so much pain from a grooming product in my life. I have seen a couple of reports of bad reactions to this particular scent so I guess one of the ingredients just doesn't agree with us sensitive skinned types. Still, it is a very good soap and the smell is out of this world. It is an exotic and intense perfume, the Vanilla really stands out, and the staying power is amazing. I shaved with this yesterday and the scent lingered on my hands and face all day . Waking up this morning it was still present and whats more, my brush, my towel, in fact my whole house absolutely reeks of this incredible aroma. If you like staying power in your scents then this is the one to go for.
Warm regards,
Alex
Sorry to hear that Alex. Unfortunately products with natural and not synthetic essential oils can cause an allergic reaction. I have the same reaction to e-shave's cucumber which is really frustrating as it smells so good. I'd give Sue a call to see if she may know what EO you're allergic to and what other products have the same ingredients so you don't end up with a similar reaction. If there's another MB fragrance you would like to trade for, let me know.

[joel]

I am getting ready to make an order and was going to purchase more QED soaps but after reading this thread I am thinking of going with Mamma. How does mamma stack up against QED?

QED soap is some world class stuff.... that said - I wouldn't say Mamma's is leaps and bounds superior, but I personally find Mamma Bear's soap to provide superior lubrication - however QED's offers a touch more protection. If push came to shove, I would choose Mamma Bear's over QED soap, as I think it shaves closer, smells much better, is less expensive, and I like the jar this comes in and the fact that it is a cake - not molded to the bowl. (When you get low on QED soap the bottom of the cake is worn out to the plastic, however most of the sides have a fair amount of soap left - so to use it, you have to melt it, and you always will have a little ring around the far edges, as due to the shape of the shaving brush, and how hard it is to get the bristle to the very edge of the tub - you will always wear the center of the cake down first. The Mamma Bear's soap you can wear down to the bottom without a problem as there is pleanty of room around the soap - and the soap stays put where you place it after the first shave, and gives you so "breathing room" around the cake of soap to generate lather - which enables you to create an outstanding lather with ZERO mess, even with a decent sized brush... outstanding tubs for travel!)

[LX_Emergency]

My second day with Mama Bear soaps I decided to go with Dragon's Blood. As far as performance goes this provided the same amount of incredibly lubricating lather as the Celestial Water's (in other words it is an excellent performer.) Unfortunately for me, this stuff burns with the intensity of a thousand suns:cursing: I don't think I have ever experienced quite so much pain from a grooming product in my life. I have seen a couple of reports of bad reactions to this particular scent so I guess one of the ingredients just doesn't agree with us sensitive skinned types. Still, it is a very good soap and the smell is out of this world. It is an exotic and intense perfume, the Vanilla really stands out, and the staying power is amazing. I shaved with this yesterday and the scent lingered on my hands and face all day . Waking up this morning it was still present and whats more, my brush, my towel, in fact my whole house absolutely reeks of this incredible aroma. If you like staying power in your scents then this is the one to go for.
Warm regards,
Alex

Same here, exact same actually. And since I'm poor I can't afford to buy a new one at the moment. I think I'll trade it away though. That's a good idea.

[finegelernt]

After all these posts I would like to try a few Mama Bear soaps but how do I choose among 500 different ones.

Should I go with the ones that only contain essential oils ?

While I love a great smell of shaving soap as much as the next guy and aromatherapy ranks high on my list I would like to know if the ingredients in the soap actually have some medicinal value and are not just there for the great smell.

Do you think that eucalyptus or peppermint actually does something positive to my skin ? Any recommendations in that regard?

[Rik]

After all these posts I would like to try a few Mama Bear soaps but how do I choose among 500 different ones.

Should I go with the ones that only contain essential oils ?

While I love a great smell of shaving soap as much as the next guy and aromatherapy ranks high on my list I would like to know if the ingredients in the soap actually have some medicinal value and are not just there for the great smell.

Do you think that eucalyptus or peppermint actually does something positive to my skin ? Any recommendations in that regard?
I highly recommend you call Mama Bear (Sue) directly. She is very knowledgeable about the ingredients of her soaps and their properties. A couple of out of this world fragrances are Rosemary Mint and Hydrogen but I don't think you can go wrong with any of her products.

[HlSheppard]

DAMN -

You all just made me order more stuff!!! :001_rolle :biggrin:

(six soaps headed my way)

[Clark]

QED soap is some world class stuff.... that said - I wouldn't say Mamma's is leaps and bounds superior, but I personally find Mamma Bear's soap to provide superior lubrication - however QED's offers a touch more protection. If push came to shove, I would choose Mamma Bear's over QED soap, as I think it shaves closer, smells much better, is less expensive, and I like the jar this comes in and the fact that it is a cake - not molded to the bowl. (When you get low on QED soap the bottom of the cake is worn out to the plastic, however most of the sides have a fair amount of soap left - so to use it, you have to melt it, and you always will have a little ring around the far edges, as due to the shape of the shaving brush, and how hard it is to get the bristle to the very edge of the tub - you will always wear the center of the cake down first. The Mamma Bear's soap you can wear down to the bottom without a problem as there is pleanty of room around the soap - and the soap stays put where you place it after the first shave, and gives you so "breathing room" around the cake of soap to generate lather - which enables you to create an outstanding lather with ZERO mess, even with a decent sized brush... outstanding tubs for travel!)

Thanks Joel appreciate your feedback!

[Rik]

DAMN -

You all just made me order more stuff!!! :001_rolle :biggrin:

(six soaps headed my way)
Whatcha get? Whatcha get? Whatcha get? :jump:

[joel]

I highly recommend you call Mama Bear (Sue) directly. She is very knowledgeable about the ingredients of her soaps and their properties. A couple of out of this world fragrances are Rosemary Mint and Hydrogen but I don't think you can go wrong with any of her products.

Rik,
What do you think of the sweetgrass? This is one I have heard no buzz about... but I keep finding myself with my nose burried in the tub! Maybe it is just me... but the sweetgrass is one of the cleanest scent I have ever experienced. It was superb at first - but it keeps growing on me exponentially!

[HlSheppard]

Whatcha get? Whatcha get? Whatcha get? :jump:

Wellsir - let me tell ya. (They'll all be en route tomorrow save one).

- Rosemary Mint
- Spellbound Woods (backorder)
- Hydrogen
- Sweetgrass
- Dragon's Blood
- Christmas Forest

Decent starter pack?? I actually had the Cedarwood and Lemon ordered initially, but since that was on back order as well - I had Sue (who is great, BTW) substitute it for the Hydrygen.

Combined with an order of Musgo "stuff" coming from Lee this week, pluss the "forum brush" and the "new" injector. I'm officially off the wagon again! :blushing:

[Rik]

Rik,
What do you think of the sweetgrass? This is one I have heard no buzz about... but I keep finding myself with my nose burried in the tub! Maybe it is just me... but the sweetgrass is one of the cleanest scent I have ever experienced. It was superb at first - but it keeps growing on me exponentially!
I find it has a very calming effect similar to Trumpers coconut albeit more complex. The combination of this soap with a fine str8t provides exceptional end to the day.

[Rik]

Wellsir - let me tell ya. (They'll all be en route tomorrow save one).

- Rosemary Mint
- Spellbound Woods (backorder)
- Hydrogen
- Sweetgrass
- Dragon's Blood
- Christmas Forest

Decent starter pack?? I actually had the Cedarwood and Lemon ordered initially, but since that was on back order as well - I had Sue (who is great, BTW) substitute it for the Hydrygen.

Combined with an order of Musgo "stuff" coming from Lee this week, pluss the "forum brush" and the "new" injector. I'm officially off the wagon again! :blushing:
I'd say you did well. This combination is going to provide a very broad spectrum of fragrance. A couple of those (Rosemary & Christmas) will immediately fill the room with fragrance when opened. Be ready for some intensely aromatic shaves. :biggrin:

[soulshine]

has anyone here tried the vanilla musk or vanilla/sandalwood? i'm on the fence on these.

i emailed sue this weekend regarding the possibility of a black pepper blend expecting a reply in a few days. about 1 hour later we had sent back and forth a few more. after some discussions she had finally mentioned it most likely not too good for shaving with.

s~s

[guenron]

has anyone here tried the vanilla musk or vanilla/sandalwood? i'm on the fence on these.

i emailed sue this weekend regarding the possibility of a black pepper blend expecting a reply in a few days. about 1 hour later we had sent back and forth a few more. after some discussions she had finally mentioned it most likely not too good for shaving with.

s~s
Black pepper contains oleo resin capsicum like its red and green cousins.. Bad stuff unless you are looking for a lacrimator. :thumbdown

[soulshine]

i was looking for a scent similiar to the molton brown black pepper wash. would you think the oleo resin capsicum is OK for the body but not the face OR does molton brown use something synthetic?

this is much more interesting than doing actual work at the office....

s~s

[letterk]

this is much more interesting than doing actual work at the office....

You're doing this at the office? <gasp!>

[soulshine]

shhhhhhhh....don't tell anyone - got it? we'll just keep it a little secret.

s~s

[Cutthroat]

soulshine

i'm sure a peppery smell would be interesting. Listen to Ron though. In my line of work Oleoresin Capsicum is simply refered to as O.C. and it is a wonderful skin irritant. Its the active ingredient in the pepper spray cops use. Talk about a burn. I know its in a much greater concentration but shows you how hot the stuff can be.

[soulshine]

that would be a miserable morning experience - no doubt. i cannot imagine anything burning worse than the soap i used from the gentlemen's quarter. yikes!

s~s

[soulshine]

another update...

in the latest email from sue, she mentions that the process by which molton brown acquires the scent is to soak black pepper corns in oil to infuse the scent. sue is not sure she can do it (yet) and i asked if i should send some down for her to sample.

can anyone else think of another person who would take this time to reply & investigate outside of the two sue's?

s~s

[guenron]

another update...

in the latest email from sue, she mentions that the process by which molton brown acquires the scent is to soak black pepper corns in oil to infuse the scent. sue is not sure she can do it (yet) and i asked if i should send some down for her to sample.

can anyone else think of another person who would take this time to reply & investigate outside of the two sue's?

s~s
Yes.

[Cutthroat]

You guys are killing me, cant wait any longer, must pull the trigger. I was thinking about the coconut lemongrass, energy, and frankensence and myrrh. Anyone try these yet? If so, any comments on scent?

[Kyle]

Yes.
Wow! You are helpful.:tongue:

[mrob]

Yes.

How DO you do it?!?:biggrin:

[rtaylor61]

You guys are killing me, cant wait any longer, must pull the trigger. I was thinking about the coconut lemongrass, energy, and frankensence and myrrh. Anyone try these yet? If so, any comments on scent?

Sue sent a sample of the Coconut/Lemon Grass, both of which I was not sure I would like. Now I'm sure I like!

Randy

[Cutthroat]

A couple were out of stock. I ended up going with Energy, Pure Lavender, and Black Code on Sue's recomendation.

[Drew]

I tried the spicey lime for the first time this morning, and it is really amazing! A great scent, that could probably also be called bay rum and lime. It's a nice spicy/sweet lime scent. It smells really good and provides a great shave. Finished it off with Dominica bay rum and lime aftershave... it was very pleasant.

Drew

[CraigK]

I tried the spicey lime for the first time this morning, and it is really amazing! A great scent, that could probably also be called bay rum and lime. It's a nice spicy/sweet lime scent. It smells really good and provides a great shave. Finished it off with Dominica bay rum and lime aftershave... it was very pleasant.

Drew

I also tried it out this morning. Excellent soap and gave me a great shave. I echo your comments about the bay rum, it smells just like Dominica Bay Rum Lime.

CraigK

[Rog]

A couple were out of stock. I ended up going with Energy, Pure Lavender, and Black Code on Sue's recomendation.


How is the Lavender? Like Yardley Lavender soap I get from CVS or walgreens? Or like Thayers Lavender Witch Hazel?

[Cutthroat]

Dont know. Just ordered it.

[gundog]

After reading about the Mamma Bear soap I was forced into the position of having to order one to try. I received today Mamma Bear's English Leather scented soap. The postman most have had the soap I ordered sitting in the direct sunlight next to a window in the vehicle as it arrived in a somewhat melted state. I immediately retrieved the mail after delivery so it was not in the mailbox for any length of time. I brought in inside and let it harden somewhat then gave it a try. Could not wait, so had my second shave of the day. Reading all the comments on the various forums on this soap, I was a little skeptical, but after having tried it, I'm now a believer, This soap is absolutely the best I have tried to date. As it stands now, this soap is at the top of my list and beats anything I have tried thus far including all the creams. The scent is fantastic, the lather is excellent, and the shave is exceptional. Now I wish I had ordered addtional scents to try.
.

Bud.

[Rik]

After reading about the Mamma Bear soap I was forced into the position of having to order one to try. I received today Mamma Bear's English Leather scented soap. The postman most have had the soap I ordered sitting in the direct sunlight next to a window in the vehicle as it arrived in a somewhat melted state. I immediately retrieved the mail after delivery so it was not in the mailbox for any length of time. I brought in inside and let it harden somewhat then gave it a try. Could not wait, so had my second shave of the day. Reading all the comments on the varius forums on this soap, I was a little skeptical, but after having tried it, I'm now a believer, This soap is absolutely the best I have tried to date. As it stands now, this soap is at the top of my list and beats anything I have tried thus far including all the creams. The scent is fantastic, the lather is excellent, and the shave is exceptional. Now I wish I had ordered addtional scents to try.
.

Bud.
Greetings Bud,
If you like the English Leather, I would highly recommend you get your hands on Dragon's Blood and Black Code. Exceptional scents!

[gundog]

Rik,

I will have to take your advise and place another order. I really love the one I have tried thus far. I need to start shaving twice a day now just to use up my stock of creams and soap in order to justify any further orders so as the SWMBO does not have me committed.

Bud

[joel]

Just wanted to let you fellas know - after 3+ years of coaxing I finally got my dad to try brush shaving... and now he's hooked! I've offered him any soap/cream from my arsenal and he's tried several (Arko, Taylors, Coate's, QED, etc) and his favorite by a long shot it.... Mamma Bears! He's holdin' onto that cake of "elements of bamboo" like it's made of gold!

He really has no idea what he is doing - but has had superb results with Sue's soaps, and find them the easiest of all the products he has tried to get good, consistent, and fast results.

Bottom line - for fellas just getting started - and long time veterans... Sue's Mamma Bear Soaps are superb!

[Rik]

Very cool!

[Kyle]

Just wanted to let you fellas know - after 3+ years of coaxing I finally got my dad to try brush shaving... and now he's hooked! I've offered him any soap/cream from my arsenal and he's tried several (Arko, Taylors, Coate's, QED, etc) and his favorite by a long shot it.... Mamma Bears! He's holdin' onto that cake of "elements of bamboo" like it's made of gold!

He really has no idea what he is doing - but has had superb results with Sue's soaps, and find them the easiest of all the products he has tried to get good, consistent, and fast results.

Bottom line - for fellas just getting started - and long time veterans... Sue's Mamma Bear Soaps are superb!
Very cool. My dad actually just called me yesterday to thank me for the latest round of goodies I gave him. I've desperately been trying to feed his scad so that he might begin sending me an extra item on occasion.:biggrin:

[crackstar]

:lol: my dad, bless him is 84, and he became a wetshaver again 3 years ago and he loves it. He was using an electric for so many years, and finally he saw the light! I got him some Taylors almond, DR Harris lavender and some Wilkinson soaps, but now I want to get him away from the Sensor.

Jeff

[Queen of Blades]

Did I miss someone else's posting about Mama Bear's Dragon's Blood being discontinued?

According to her website, due to irritation to people with sensitive skin, she is discontinuing this product.

JoAnna

[Rik]

I believe you can still order it while supplies last. Hopefully this will change as it is an INCREDIBLE fragrance!

[Tye]

I ordered the Spicy Lime, Eucalyptus, Clove and Tangerine and Sandalwood last thursday and they arrived in the mail yesterday. Not only dies Sue ship fast, but these soaps smell incredible. I used the spicy Lime this morning (because it was one of the two my GF picked out, the other being the Sandalwood) and it's incredible. Super soap and a super shave. If this keeps up I'm going to be ordering more of these soon.

-Tye

[AJS]

It is very upsetting about the Dragon's Blood being discontinued. It burned me like there were a thousand fire ants eating my face, but it was worth it for the smell (BTW, just to reiterate, I am not a masochist!) Also, like all the MB soaps it lathered brilliantly and gave a first class shave.

[Mama Bear]

It is very upsetting about the Dragon's Blood being discontinued. It burned me like there were a thousand fire ants eating my face, but it was worth it for the smell (BTW, just to reiterate, I am not a masochist!) Also, like all the MB soaps it lathered brilliantly and gave a first class shave.

Alex, why would I keep selling something that burns people's faces!? It kills me to take it off the market (it is my absolute favorite sexy male smell) but it is not worth the pain! Maybe I WILL rename it masochist shaving soap....lol

I am not out to hurt anyone, I want you gents to feel GOOD! ;-)

Big Bear Hugs!

Sue

[Mama Bear]

The black code is my 2nd favorite... sometimes I go back and forth between it and the Dragon's Blood. This might make a nice alternative, but it doesn't smell the same, it is quite different, but sexy, sexy, sexy!!!! ;-)

Mama Bear

[CigarBoB]

WOOO HOOO!! First post!!

I began wetshaving only a few weeks ago and I have my first DE and Badger brush comeing from clasicshaving.com. I have been using a crap boars hair that I picked up from a local pharmacy ans some williams soap. I have been able to get a decent lather but nothing that will stick for any period of time.

On the weight of all the posts on here and SRP I ordered 4 soaps from Mama Bear. Dragons Blood, Bay Rum, Tahitian Vanilla and Beau Brummel. Oh I cant wait. They all sound so great. Also I have been emailing back and forth with Mama about the dragons blood about it causing probs with some ppl. I sure hope it doesn't with me. She is a breath of fresh air that is for sure. Such a nice lady.

I cant wait for them to arive.

[Kyle]

Welcome to B&B, CigarBob! As you will soon come to realize, there are few things more exciting (for the average member here) than receiving new shave products. It is somewhat of a sickness.

Be sure to let us know what you think of the Mama Bear soaps after you've had a chance to use them.

[AJS]

Alex, why would I keep selling something that burns people's faces!? It kills me to take it off the market (it is my absolute favorite sexy male smell) but it is not worth the pain! Maybe I WILL rename it masochist shaving soap....lol

I am not out to hurt anyone, I want you gents to feel GOOD! ;-)

Big Bear Hugs!

Sue

Hi Sue,
Do you know which particular fragrance oil in the Dragon's Blood caused the problems? If the shaving soap is going:frown: any chance of a cologne? The good thing about Dragon's Blood was that although it burned, it didn't leave my face red so no one else would be aware of any problems, just the incredible smell.

[Mama Bear]

Hi Sue,
Do you know which particular fragrance oil in the Dragon's Blood caused the problems? If the shaving soap is going:frown: any chance of a cologne? The good thing about Dragon's Blood was that although it burned, it didn't leave my face red so no one else would be aware of any problems, just the incredible smell.

Hi Alex!!

The Dragon's Blood is not an essential oil blend, it is a synthetic fragrance oil... some people have sensitivity to it.. I tend to pour my fragrance oils like I pour my homemade beer.... why do a little when you can do a lot!

That being said a percentage of people DO have reactions to the Fragrance Oils. Maybe if I did not pour so heavy....??? Alas, I have yet to find this out. So far it seems to be a bit of a crap shoot. You either have a reaction or you do not. To further complicate things, some people have reactions to some of the Fragrance oils and not others. But based on the feedback I am getting about 1 in 10 people are reacting adversly to the Dragon's Blood in particular, which kills me as the scent is so incredibly awesome.

I AM willing to try this in a cologne however.... but that is not going to happen for probably another month. I have a LOT of soap orders to get out once I get home! :tongue_sm If that doesn't work I might turn to candles... the scent is to die for! :smile:

hth,

Mama Bear

[boboakalfb]

Hi Alex!!

The Dragon's Blood is not an essential oil blend, it is a synthetic fragrance oil... some people have sensitivity to it.. I tend to pour my fragrance oils like I pour my homemade beer.... why do a little when you can do a lot!

That being said a percentage of people DO have reactions to the Fragrance Oils. Maybe if I did not pour so heavy....??? Alas, I have yet to find this out. So far it seems to be a bit of a crap shoot. You either have a reaction or you do not. To further complicate things, some people have reactions to some of the Fragrance oils and not others. But based on the feedback I am getting about 1 in 10 people are reacting adversly to the Dragon's Blood in particular, which kills me as the scent is so incredibly awesome.

I AM willing to try this in a cologne however.... but that is not going to happen for probably another month. I have a LOT of soap orders to get out once I get home! :tongue_sm If that doesn't work I might turn to candles... the scent is to die for! :smile:

hth,

Mama Bear

The candle is a good idea...I was going to say yesterday since everyone agrees on how intoxicating the scent is that maybe if you could throw a wick in it and use it as a candle. (Obviously I understand that you couldn't do that...but the idea to create candles with some of the scents seems like a great idea).

[Queen of Blades]

Perhaps, Mama Bear needs a guinea pig to try out a Dragon's Blood remake. I'm sure one of the guys would be willing to subject themselves to any pain that may be involved. Of course it would have to be one of the guys that has already had a burning problem with the product.

I haven't had a chance to smell the Dragon's Blood, but I am sure a lot of the guys would miss it, if you discontinue it Sue.

Of course, guinea pigging involves some cost. But if you can make small samples of the new soap, as you reduce the oils, you could send it out first class mail fairly cheap.

Of course, that is all up to Sue, as you gents have her pretty busy already.

JoAnna

[Mama Bear]

The candle is a good idea...I was going to say yesterday since everyone agrees on how intoxicating the scent is that maybe if you could throw a wick in it and use it as a candle. (Obviously I understand that you couldn't do that...but the idea to create candles with some of the scents seems like a great idea).

Great Minds Think Alike! :001_smile

You can actually buy the FO and put diffuser reeds in it to dispurse the smell throughout a house. I used to scent my whole house with Fragrance Oils... untill it started smelling really friendly :blush: with no added effort after all the soap and cologne projects in the kitchen...

I would just put a few drops on pourporri that was placed in a glass receptacle.. I also sprinkle it or spray it on my silk plants and a couple of unstained wicker baskets. You just have to be careful when doing this using an undiluted Fragrance Oil (FO) as it will eat wood finishes and plastic. A spray here and a drop there is all it needs to scent the entire house. Much cheaper than airwick and many more fragrances. I have over 200 different FO's! :w00t:

I am working on a page on the website for the undiluted Fragrance Oils in 1 oz blue cobalt glass bottles.. You should be able to buy them in 1 oz bottles in undiluted form in the next month or so. :tongue_sm Let me know if there is any interest here in this! Some of them (including the dragons blood) are already available at my ebay store Mama Bears.... there are over 100 listed there, so it is not totally up to date..

There are some Fabulous Christmas smells... !

Bear Hugs!

Sue

[boboakalfb]

Now if I could only narrow down all of the options I can place an order...that is if Rik left anything behind...

[Mama Bear]

Now if I could only narrow down all of the options I can place an order...that is if Rik left anything behind...

Rik left very little behind! BUT, I am heading home again and will start working the stock back up again on Saturday! There will be Lots of shipments on Monday.....I will sleep then...:confused:

Mama Bear

[crackstar]

I must say that I love a rich, well-fragranced shaving soap or cream, I never really had too much sensitivity to most of them. Certain lavender type scents however could wreak havoc with my skin. One example is DR Harris lavender, that almost did my face in.

Jeff

[DEF]

Well, I've gone in for the English Leather, Elements of Bamboo, and Rosemary Mint. I can't wait to see what the buzz is about. It was hard to decide; Sue's got so many great fragrances.

Sue, if you see this -- Is it best to let the new soap cure for a while, or is it good to go right away? I would guess it's different for different kinds of soap.

Thanks!
Doug

[Mama Bear]

Sue, if you see this -- Is it best to let the new soap cure for a while, or is it good to go right away? I would guess it's different for different kinds of soap.

Thanks!
Doug

Soap that needs to be cured are the Cold Process soaps (which I LOVE in the bath but don't use on my face, well, usually :smile: ) Usually these will cure in 6-8 weeks but some like castille (100% olive oil) need a little longer. Cold Process soaps are AWESOME in the bath and have helped many people with skin problems such as exzema due to their purity. 'Soap' sold in grocery stores is not really soap, it is detergent. They call them Luxury Bars, Facial Bars, Deoderant Bars... etc, but you will notice they never call them soap. You can't buy Soap in a regular store for the most part, it is usually made by hand at home, or by maestro's such as Sue at SCS.

My shaving soaps are glycerin or melt and pour soaps that are scented using either synthetic (Fragrance oils or FO's) or natural fragrance (Essential Oils or EO's) Glycerin is a byproduct of cold process soap making. I prefer to use glycerin soaps on my face. They are very hydrating and not drying. Lime is known to dry the skin however, so some of the fragrances can be drying. Some of the Fragrance oils can cause irritation if used to strongly, which I admit that I tend to do. Most people will not be irritated by my shaving soaps and will find their faces left smooth and moist.

But to specifically answer your question.. Glycerin soaps need no cure time. They CAN be melted in your microwave to liquid form (do NOT overheat) and poured into a receptacle of your choice. The glycerin 'base' that I work with is an all natural base and I personally think it makes the perfect shave soap....

HTH,

Bear Hugs.

[Mama Bear]

Sue, if you see this -- Is it best to let the new soap cure for a while, or is it good to go right away? I would guess it's different for different kinds of soap.

Thanks!
Doug

Responsible Soapers, such as Sue at SCS, will never let a soap leave their home or shop untill they are fully cured! If you get one that is, you are not buying from someone who is responsible!

Bear Hugs!

[Rik]

Rik left very little behind! BUT, I am heading home again and will start working the stock back up again on Saturday! There will be Lots of shipments on Monday.....I will sleep then...:confused:

Mama Bear
:biggrin:

[DEF]

Responsible Soapers, such as Sue at SCS, will never let a soap leave their home or shop untill they are fully cured! If you get one that is, you are not buying from someone who is responsible!

Bear Hugs!


Sue --

Thanks very much for answering my question; I now know more about soaps than I did before.

Also, I didn't stop to think about the implications of my question; of course you wouldn't ship a product that wasn't ready, so the question was misguided to begin with. My apologies there.

Good luck with a frantic weekend of soap making. Try to take a break once in a while; we'd hate to send you screaming into retirement -- especially since you've got the Bear Haven right there already.

Cheers,
Doug

[Mama Bear]

Sue --

Thanks very much for answering my question; I now know more about soaps than I did before.

Also, I didn't stop to think about the implications of my question; of course you wouldn't ship a product that wasn't ready, so the question was misguided to begin with. My apologies there.

Good luck with a frantic weekend of soap making. Try to take a break once in a while; we'd hate to send you screaming into retirement -- especially since you've got the Bear Haven right there already.

Cheers,
Doug

No apologies needed. There are some unscrupulous people out there that WILL sell a soap before it is cured. Not often tho, thank God!

This IS my retirement........or what is left of it......:redface: lol

I am actually looking forward to this weekend believe it or not. The new fragrances are in and I am really looking forward to playing with the sandalwoods, the amber, spellbound woods and especially the bea brummel...! I need to get a life.... who was talking about 12 step programs here???? :w00t:

Thanks Doug!

Mama Bear

[Rog]

Sue --
Good luck with a frantic weekend of soap making. Try to take a break once in a while; we'd hate to send you screaming into retirement -- especially since you've got the Bear Haven right there already.

Cheers,
Doug

Hmmm, Wet Shavers convention at Bears Haven..........
ShaveCon anyone?

[crackstar]

hmmmm, count me in!

Jeff

[Mama Bear]

Works for me! :001_smile

[greenerock]

Maybe we'll all ride our motorcycles to Harley Mama Bear's and have a mini Sturgis rally. Instead of a wet t-shirt contest we can have a closest shave contest. On second thought, the wet t-shirt contest sounds more fun. :tongue_sm Doug

[Mama Bear]

Maybe we'll all ride our motorcycles to Harley Mama Bear's and have a mini Sturgis rally. Instead of a wet t-shirt contest we can have a closest shave contest. On second thought, the wet t-shirt contest sounds more fun. :tongue_sm Doug

Depends on what you are shaving! lol

[greenerock]

:w00t: :w00t: :blushing: :eek:

[Mama Bear]

Sorry 'bout that.... still giggling tho... I just couldn't bear the thought of the wet T shirt contest in my front yard and my fingers typed faster than I could think!!!

Bear Hugs!

Sue