Nothing wrong with having an opinion. I've used a handful of "artisan" soaps over the years, + Arko sticks, + Proraso Green. Arko provides the best lather by far - just thick enough and very slick. Also the longest lasting and cheapest. But, it does tend to dry up skin, not everyone likes its citronella scent, and face-lathering with a stick is extra work. Proraso - at least in my opinion - is a step behind Arko in lather quality and also in scent. But, it's still a very good soap and a whole lot easier to use. The artisan soaps beat both in scent and presentation by a mile, but very few came even close to Arko's lather quality.
The problem I have is the fact that for me…..slickness is lacking compared to Stirling and Cella. Not to mention the sent. Maybe I got a bad batch? I don’t know. As of now, the jar I have pretty much has zero slickness.
The only thing I don't like about Arko is the dryness and itchy face I'm left with after using it. Even using a balm doesn't keep it away so I don't use Arko anymore.
I've used Arko (stick bowl pressed) for many years. I just slice a stick up and press it into my favorite ceramic bowl and puck lather with one of my Boar brushes. It is very slick, hydrating, thick long lasting lather. I like the scent but as in most soaps, scent doesn't last much longer after the rinse and applying aftershave. Also a box of 12 is great on the budget minded
Arko is very much a ymmv thing. Some love it, some hate it and some are totally indifferent about it. So you don't like it? PIF it along and pick something else for yourself. At least it didn't cost you an arm and a leg. I hope.
