Barbasol

Overview

Barbasol is an American brand of shaving cream, aftershave, and disposable razors, recognized as a long-standing provider in the men's grooming market. Owned by Perio, Inc., it offers aerosol shaving foams and razors sold at retailers nationwide, with production in Ashland, Ohio.¹²³

History

Barbasol was created in 1919 by MIT professor Frank Shields in Indianapolis and formalized as The Barbasol Company in 1920. In the mid-1950s, it pioneered aerosol shaving cream with a barber's pole can design still in use. Pfizer acquired it in 1962, expanding variants until selling to Perio, Inc. in 2001, which streamlined and revitalized the line.²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are produced in Ashland, Ohio. Manufacturing is handled under Perio, Inc., with no details on in-house versus outsourced processes.¹³

Notable Products

• Original Shaving Cream - Thick foam in aerosol can mimicking barber's pole design, introduced post-1950s aerosol patent.
• Soothing Aloe Shaving Cream - Aloe variant developed during Pfizer ownership for added skin soothing.
• Skin Conditioner Shaving Cream - Moisturizing option consolidated under Perio, Inc.
• Sensitive Skin Shaving Cream - Formula for sensitive skin, part of current lineup.
• 6-Blade Disposable Razors - Highest blade count razor introduced later in brand history.

Reputation

Barbasol is perceived as a reliable, affordable classic by consumers, trusted for over 100 years for basic shaving needs. Enthusiasts note its heritage in aerosol innovation but criticize limited innovation compared to premium competitors. Professionals view it as a mass-market staple with strong retail presence.¹²