"I received this as a sample (thanks, Nathan) so this is based on only one shave. I'm a soap user and maybe this cream is unsuited to straight razors, but it gave me an only average shave. First impression is the smell: medicinal. Took me straight back to primary school and the doctor's waiting room. I can't place it but it's a slightly herbal scent I associate with minor injuries. Not unpleasant, but not what I want to accompany my morning shave. The cream lathers okay on the face but needed a little more water than just a wet face (as per instructions). Using a brush is a huge improvement over fingers. The critical bit for something called Super Close Shave Formula: how was the shave? Nothing special, especially given the price. Lots of lubrication, no pulling and smooth glide, but it just the razor just didn't want to cut as well as it does with Proraso. If it was named Average Shave and cost $10 I'd let it go, but it's not. Finally, clean up was a little messy (it seemed to get everywhere) and left my face slightly "soapy", a little like the lubricating strips on cartridge razors do, requiring a wash where I'm used to wiping off with a towel. Summing up: nothing special at this price. Maybe it would work okay for someone with a less coarse beard and a safety razor but I cannot recommend it."

"Can lather this with my hands and it gives good razor slip and texture. I have a tough beard and sensitive skin and I have been more than happy with this."