Got some new gear lately and always wanted to try the Proraso Red soap-new tub(I have the Proraso red A.S), when you first open the tub it has a weird fragrance but what I did was scoop some into the lather bowl the night before and boy does it smell close to the Prorazo Red Aftershave but not as strong by the morning. Proraso Red lathers reasonable well with my new Yaki tuxedo knot.(i'm spoiled with nice shave gear lately) Razor: Gem Damaskeene open comb, MFG-1912-15 (very nice lower mid aggressive razor) Blade : Gem Personna SS PTFE (3) Soap; Proraso red Sandal wood Brush: Yaki tuxedo 24 mm (soft with good back bone) Pre-shave: warm wet face cloth on face for 40 seconds X 2 + Aloe vera gel Post shave: Alum block + Cold water rinse Post shave: Proraso red sandal wood lotion + witch hazel+ Nivea balm Results: CCS,DFS,BBS + Alum indicated no irritation= Have some great shaves!