Subtle Art Soap Co. LLC

We have always been big proponents of small business. Whether it be a farmer’s market, farm stands, craft fairs or local retailers, we try to support the small businesses as much as possible. We’d much rather spend a couple more dollars buying from an artisan at a farmers’ market, craft fair, or a local shop, then buy from a big box store. Buying from small business gives you a more personalized experience. You get an opportunity to really get to know the business, it’s owners, and the products.

So Why Soap?

Like most small business, ours started as a hobby, or in our case, as a curiosity.

It all started with shave soaps. Having sensitive skin, I’ve always struggled with shaving. For years I bought into whatever multi-blade razor, and “sensitive skin” shave cream that was offered. One day a friend suggested I switch to a safety razor and real shave soaps. I was very apprehensive at first, thinking I would be riddled with cuts and razor burn. I decided, why not give it a shot. Within days of switching, I noticed a big difference in my skin, and I had no irritation after shaving. Realizing that my previous way of shaving with commercial canned shaving cream was likely the cause of my skin issues, I started researching real handmade soap. What I found out was incredible. The products I had been using contained harsh detergents and additives, even in “sensitive skin” formulas. Real handmade soap contained none of these things. Being the inquisitive person I am, I decided to try making my own shave soap. It was not easy. Lots of trial and error, and I quickly learned there are certain nuances to making shave soap that differ significantly from bath soap. However, these “failures” were not in vain. We realized we had produced some great bath soaps. Having experienced the benefits of real shave soap, we started using the bath soaps we had made. Within days we noticed our skin wasn’t dry and it was softer and smoother. Suddenly, what started as a hobby became a passion that we wanted to share. As for the shave soap, I kept at it and did eventually create a recipe that checked off all the boxes. It provides slickness and cushion for the razor, gives me a great shave with no irritation, and leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth. We started giving both our shave and bath soaps away to family and friends until one day we got that comment, the comment that started the wheels turning, “you should sell this.” Now, here we are, running a soap business.

Why the name Subtle Art Soap? Soaping has been referred to as an art, which we agree with wholeheartedly. So many different styles, fragrances, and colors. The options are endless. We wanted to keep it simple and make soap we would buy, and use. We’re not interested in “decorative” soaps. Ironic I know, especially with a name like Subtle Art Soap. The last thing we want is for you to decorate your bathroom shelf with our soap. We do try to make our soaps appealing to the eye, but what we really want is for you to experience all the great skin nourishing benefits real handmade soap has to offer. What we came up with are soaps that contain quality ingredients, are functional, and appealing. You could say our soaps are somewhat complex and, at the same time, understated. In other words, soaps that are…subtle.

So, there you have it, the origins of Subtle Art Soap Co. LLC. We appreciate you taking the time to read our story. We’re glad we could share it, and our love of soaping, with you.