Synthetic Brush Choices

The Semogue C7 Alchemy 1 is specifically marketed as a synth that can deal with hard soaps. In my opinion, for face lathering, you need to have robust skin. I sold mine as I personally didn‘t enjoy it for this purpose.

I have had many synthetics over the years and the only one still in my rotation is a Wald A1. It had not occurred to me to try it on a hard soap as I have badger brushes for that. But I actually don’t think it would have any difficulty creating a rich lather. A synthetic needs very little soap to perform. Maybe if the soap is bloomed for a few minutes prior to loading. I may try it out just to be sure.

Other synthetics to consider:
Plissoft noir; Omega Evo; Mühle XL

The Semogue C7 Alchemy 1 is specifically marketed as a synth that can deal with hard soaps. In my opinion, for face lathering, you need to have robust skin. I sold mine as I personally didn‘t enjoy it for this purpose.

I have had many synthetics over the years and the only one still in my rotation is a Wald A1. It had not occurred to me to try it on a hard soap as I have badger brushes for that. But I actually don’t think it would have any difficulty creating a rich lather. A synthetic needs very little soap to perform. Maybe if the soap is bloomed for a few minutes prior to loading. I may try it out just to be sure.

Other synthetics to consider:
Plissoft noir; Omega Evo; Mühle XL

I second the idea about blooming hard soaps. It always makes loading easier, even with a boar bristle brush. As a bonus you can use the bloom water as an effective pre-shave.

StephenG , may I inquire as to why you are interested in a synthetic brush for use with hard soaps and face lathering?

Either of those uses are known challenges for synthetics compared to boar brushes, and together are a double whammy. Travel maybe?

Just curious.

For the record, I own hard soaps and face lather and have never had problems getting a wonderful lather. I like synthetic, boar as well as badger.

Agreed. My synthetics perform just fine. It all depends on what you're looking for, and unfortunately, it's hard to know until you've tried a few. The Bruce is fine. I actually prefer Razorock's black synthetic that you can get in the 400 style handles though.

I have really have been enjoying the MiG from AP Shave Co. I would say it is worth checking out.

Hard soap sample of Triple Milled Martin de Candre Fougere in a bowl (NOT Bloomed) with a 26mm Synbad Knot (Very Soft)
Pre shave and soap load pic, then after a 15-20 second load with a slightly damp brush and then post shave pic showing soap sample left. I only loaded the brush and then face Lathered. I could have done more than the 3 passes I did.(Forgive the lousy lighting etc of the cheap cell phone pics please)

For whatever it is worth, I have never had success with a synthetic brush and a triple milled hard puck. I haven't even had success with a triple milled puck and a badger brush.

Just wouldn't load in any reasonable amount of time. They were done building lather before they were fully loaded!

The Big Bruce did a great job with Stirling.

Excellent choice!