Martin de Candre

If you're looking for a shaving experience unlike any other, then the name Martin de Candre surely rings a bell. A brand that never compromises on quality and inspires with its refined French finesse.

From France with Love

The story of Martin de Candre begins in 1974, when a family of artisans in Provence set out to create the ultimate shaving soap — using only natural ingredients and age-old soapmaking techniques.

✔️ The result? A product with a rich, creamy lather and an aroma of pure refinement.

"We don’t just make soap. We revive a lost craft, exactly as our grandparents taught us."

– The Dauge Family

The Story Behind the Legend

The story of Martin de Candre unfolds like an old, authentic French tale filled with aromas, knowledge, and passion. It all began in the early 1970s in the tranquil countryside of the Loire Valley, when Dominique and Rosine Dauge decided to breathe new life into a family farm. Their search for a creative endeavor beyond agriculture led them to André Chapuis — a passionate chemist from Cher, with a deep expertise in soapmaking.

What started as an experiment quickly turned into an art. Rosine devoted herself fully to the craft, researching, refining, and mastering every stage of the soapmaking process. It took years of dedication to achieve the standard of excellence that today is recognized around the world. The first workshop was established within the family home and soon became a benchmark for traditional soapmaking techniques.

Today, the legacy continues through their daughter, Hélène Dauge, who now leads the company with the same authenticity and dedication. Martin de Candre remains a 100% family-owned and handcrafted business, with a long-standing mission: to deliver exceptional products that respect both people and nature while preserving traditional know-how.

The company's contribution to preserving this rare artisanal heritage has not gone unnoticed. In 2000, Martin de Candre’s soap workshop received the official designation “Loire Valley World Heritage” by UNESCO, recognizing not just a business, but a cultural legacy with international significance.

Martin de Candre is not just the story of a brand. It’s the story of a revived tradition that continues to inspire fans of authenticity, craftsmanship, and quality all over the world.

"A proper shave isn’t a rush. It’s a ritual. And every ritual needs the right tools."

– Devoted MdC User

Traditional Craftsmanship & Premium Ingredients

Martin de Candre is one of the few companies in the world that still follows the traditional “hot process” method of soapmaking — a handcrafted, time-consuming technique originating from Marseille that dates back centuries.

The production begins with the careful selection of top-quality vegetable oils like olive and palm. These are precisely measured and heated in old copper cauldrons, where saponification takes place through the addition of lye. The entire process is managed manually, with no machines or automation involved.

After saponification, the soap paste is poured into wooden molds and left to cure for weeks — even months. This natural drying phase allows the soap to harden properly and extend its shelf life. The final product is incredibly dense, low in moisture, and can last for years without spoiling.

Each batch is made and supervised by a small team of 10 artisans at the Fontevraud workshop, who master every step of the process. Quantities are limited, and no compromises are made — only a relentless pursuit of perfection in every single jar.

Importantly, all scents are made from 100% natural essential oils, resins, and beeswax. There are no parabens, dyes, or synthetic preservatives. Even the color of each soap is naturally derived — so the lavender soap is not purple, and the rose-scented one isn’t pink. Nothing is made to “look pretty,” only to deliver results.

The palm oil used is always RSPO-certified (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil), reinforcing the brand’s commitment to ecological responsibility and ethical sourcing.

The philosophy behind Martin de Candre is clear: less is more. Fewer ingredients, purer formulas, perfect balance. The result? A timeless product that performs at the highest level — every single time. This is the art of soapmaking, at its finest.

The Shaving Experience with Martin de Candre

Among the many products offered by the brand, the Martin de Candre (MdC) shaving soap has become a global reference point. It's no coincidence that those who try it often place it at the top of their personal list. Why? The lather it creates is unmatched.

Just a light swirl with a quality brush dipped in warm water is enough to activate the natural ingredients in the soap. The resulting lather is rich, stable, and incredibly protective. It cushions the skin and hair, providing excellent glide while reducing irritation. Ideal for sensitive skin, daily use, and traditional wet shaving enthusiasts.

The MdC shaving soap is available in three signature versions:

• Original: A balanced scent of lavender, mint, and rosemary. Elegant and fresh.
• Nature: Completely unscented. Perfect for those with allergies or who prefer a neutral product.
• Fougère: Inspired by classic fougère notes — green, woody, and bold in personality.

Each soap comes in a luxurious 200g glass jar. Despite its premium price, it’s considered one of the most cost-effective products in its category. With daily use, a single jar can last over 12 months without losing its freshness or strength. It doesn’t dry out or degrade.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned traditional shaver, MdC shaving soap will instantly elevate your routine. It transforms shaving into a ritual — a moment of self-care and luxury.

"When quality is real, there’s no need for words. The lather speaks for itself."

– Customer Review

Beyond Shaving: Liquid Soaps & Everyday Skincare

Martin de Candre doesn’t stop at traditional shaving. The brand’s line of liquid soaps has also gained loyal fans, thanks to its simplicity, purity, and performance. These soaps are made from 100% plant-based oils — primarily olive and coconut — with no artificial additives or harsh cleansers.

They are available with or without fragrance and are suitable for both hand washing and use in the shower. The aromatic profiles are subtle and pleasant, based solely on essential oils such as lavender, bergamot, lemon, and resins.

Ideal for people avoiding synthetic skincare, the liquid soaps come in practical PET pump bottles. They do not dry out the skin, rinse off easily, and leave a clean, refreshed feeling — without the tightness that conventional soaps often cause.

Overall, Martin de Candre’s products don’t try to impress with flashy ingredients or gimmicks. The philosophy is clear: return to essence, tradition, and a product that truly works — whether it’s for shaving or cleansing.

Customer Opinions & Enthusiastic Feedback

The most reliable proof of a product’s quality isn’t advertising — it’s the voice of its customers. Martin de Candre has built a global fanbase of shaving enthusiasts who share their experiences online with genuine passion.

From Reddit and shaving forums like Badger & Blade to YouTube reviews and Instagram posts, users often say:

• "The best shaving soap I’ve ever used — and I’ve tried over 50."
• "My face feels like I had a spa treatment after every shave."
• "It’s expensive, but I’ve been using the same jar for 14 months. Incredible value."

Many compare it to top-tier Italian and British brands, noting that MdC’s longevity and performance are unmatched. Even those with very sensitive or reactive skin claim this soap transformed their daily routine.

This enthusiasm isn’t a trend — it’s the result of consistent quality and attention to detail. That’s something Hélène Dauge and her team never compromise on.

"Shaving care begins with purity — and ends with luxury."

How to Create the Perfect Lather with Martin de Candre

To enjoy the full potential of Martin de Candre’s shaving soap, it’s important to know the proper technique for building lather. Although it's easier to use than most soaps, following the steps below will help you achieve flawless results every time:

1. Soak the brush: Let your shaving brush soak in warm water for 1–2 minutes to soften the bristles.
2. Shake off excess water: Gently flick the brush — it should be damp, not dripping wet.
3. Load the soap: Swirl the brush in the soap jar for 20–30 seconds until a thick layer forms on the bristles.
4. Build the lather: Use a bowl or face-lather directly. Gradually add drops of water until the lather becomes creamy and dense — not bubbly.
5. Apply: Spread evenly across the face and enjoy a smooth, comfortable shave.

This technique, paired with MdC’s pure ingredients, guarantees a luxurious lather with minimal product. A 200g jar can last for hundreds of shaves while maintaining top-notch performance.

✨ “Shave like a French aristocrat — every single day!”

✂️ Quick Guide: How to Use Martin de Candre Shaving Soap

• Step 1: Soak your shaving brush in warm water to soften it.
• Step 2: Swirl the brush in the soap for 10–15 seconds.
• Step 3: Build lather either in a bowl or directly on your face.
• Step 4: Apply evenly and enjoy a close, luxurious shave.

✨ What You Should Remember

• ✔️ Martin de Candre delivers an authentic French traditional shaving experience.
• ✔️ Their soaps stand out for their rich lather and elegant, natural aromas.
• ✔️ Every step of the shaving ritual is part of the luxury — not just a routine.
• ✔️ The result: smooth, irritation-free, refined skin — every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

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