A tough beard and sensitive skin are the most vulnerable to cuts, nicks, irritation, redness, and scrapes.
The best razors and shave creams are essentials for shaving, but what complements both shaving products is the best pre-shave oil. Though it is considered non-essential, it still brings a world of difference for the hair and skin types.
The primary job of the pre-shave oil is to hydrate the skin, soften the tough beards, and create a lubricated base so that the razor can glide easily on the face.
In our opinion, The Art of Shaving Pre-Shave Oil is one of the best beard care products on the list since it contains natural ingredients, works well on all body types, and delivers an irritation-free shave, irrespective of razor types.
Besides, the list contains several pre-shave oils that cater to specific skin, hair, and razor types. The article also contains a buying guide to help you in sorting out the suitable pre-shave oil. Lastly, the method to use will wrap up the article.
So, let’s get started.
Table Of Content
- Quick Comparison of 10 Best Pre Shave Oil
- Proraso Pre-Shave Cream
- Baxter of California Shave Tonic for Men
- Taylor of Old Bond Street Pre-Shave Oil
- Vikings Blade Pre Shave Oil
- Shaveology Pre-Shave Oil
- The Art of Shaving Pre-Shave Oil
- Badger Navigator Class Pre Shave Oil
- Taconic Shave Pre Shave Oil
- eShave Pre-Shave Oil
- Shave Secret Pre-Shave Oil
- Buyer’s Guide
- How To Use Pre Shave Oil?
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Quick Comparison of 10 Best Pre Shave Oil
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Proraso Pre-Shave Cream
Proraso is an Italian men’s grooming company serving the industry since 1908. Ever since its inception, the company has developed new and innovative products for bearded men around the world.
Proraso Pre-Shave Cream is an innovative men’s product that works amazingly well. The key ingredients are menthol, oats, eucalyptus, and green tea extracts.
Of all the ingredients, menthol and eucalyptus soothe your skin post-shaving and offer a pain-free shave. On the other hand, oats moisturize the skin, and green tea extracts contain anti-aging properties.
Another benefit you get from using this pre-shave oil is it neither clogs your skin pores nor your razor. Moreover, the pre-shave cream provides a slick and lubricated base for shaving cream and razors.
Apart from this, the pre-shave cream contains a blend of Tea-Tree oil that offers a strong and masculine scent. The strong fragrance relieves men suffering from sinus.
The pre-shave cream softens beard hair and prepares it for shaving. It does not irritate the skin while shaving.
Tip: Apply Proraso pre-shave cream on wet skin for a lubricated and cushiony lather from shaving cream.
- No Paraben, Silicones, or Mineral Oils
- Hydrates & Moisturizes the Skin
- Easy Gliding of Razor
- No Clogging Issues
- Budget-friendly
- Not Travel-friendly product
- Strong scent
Verdict
No matter if you have sensitive or irritated skin, this pre-shave cream will deliver irritation-free results. However, the product isn’t travel-friendly as it exceeds the Transport & Security Administration (TSA’s) size requirement. you must always consider this one in your post-shaving kit.
Baxter of California Shave Tonic for Men
Baxter of California has been serving the men’s grooming industry since 1965. The company believes in making a wide range of quality men’s grooming products so that no man has to wander anywhere in search of products.
Unlike other pre-shave oils, this Shave Tonic from Baxter of California is a unique and all-natural formula. It not only prepares your skin pre-shaving but also soothes you from post-shaving hassles.
All thanks to vital ingredients that include soothing menthol, camphor, eucalyptus, rosemary, and spearmint. Also, it has aloe vera extracts and Vitamins, A, D, and E, which provide essential nutrients and moisture to the skin.
Most barbers use this elixir as the natural formula prevents ingrown hairs and razor bumps. As said, it helps in post-shaving hassle; you can even apply once you are done with shaving to complement your aftershave balm or lotion.
The special ingredients Aloe extracts and Vitamin A, D, and E cleanse your clogged skin pores and remove all the dirt for any skin type.
Tip: It is advisable to spray this Shave Tonic on a warm towel to apply on the face. Spraying directly on the face can get into your eyes as well.
- Thin Liquid Tonic
- Remove impurities from skin pores
- Pre and post-shave application
- Contains Parabens & Alcohol
- Not a travel-friendly product
- Strong fragrance
Verdict
If you are stepping into the grooming world with modern electric razors, this shave tonic will be a boon for you. Also, it is one of the best pre-shave oils for ingrown hairs.
Taylor of Old Bond Street Pre-Shave Oil
Taylor of Old Bond Street is a company that maintains its spot in any of our product reviews. Recently, we reviewed shaving cream from its product line, and now we have Pre-shave oil on the list.
A few years back, when men used to go to barbershops- they were in love with the smell and ambiance. The pre-shave oil is built considering the aroma so that men can enjoy a barbershop-like shaving process at home.
Thanks to the Sandalwood scent that reminds its users of a classic barbershop. Unlike other pre-shave oils, it dissipates immediately after application. Other ingredients are Castor Seed Oil, Witch Hazel, and Aloe Vera Leaf Juice.
The astringent and anti-inflammatory properties of the ingredients prevent you from razor bumps and ingrown hairs.
The oil comes in a 1.6-ounce bottle, making it a good pre-shave oil for use on the go. However, the bottle does come with a stopper, which means the oil comes with a risk of spillage. Though it has a thicker consistency, it won’t clog your electric or cartridge razors.
- Offer a clean & smooth shave
- Protects from ingrown hairs and irritation
- Thicker texture lasts long
- Risk of spilling
- Quite expensive
Verdict
The all-natural formula contains natural ingredients, and the refreshing fragrance reminds us of the barbershop. It requires less amount to coat your facial hair.
Vikings Blade Pre Shave Oil
Vikings blade is a revolutionizing company that listens to its customer’s suggestions. That’s the reason you see how they have built this innovative pre-shave oil.
It contains 100% organic oils, which makes the consistency thinner and liquidy. The natural oils include rosemary oil, tocopheryl, and olive oil. These ingredients are versatile since all of them work amazingly well with all skin types.
Besides, the Western Red Cedar and Sandalwood scent offers a light and pleasant fragrance that does not even clash with cologne or perfumes.
As said, the company listens to customers’ suggestions, and that’s why all the bottles of pre-shave oils come with a dropper cap. It saves from spilling and leakage.
No matter what shaving tools you use, it pairs with every grooming tool. It is the biggest USP of Vikings Blade Pre Shave oil.
- Softens beard hair
- Protects from irritation
- No risk of spillage or leakage
- Works on all skin and hair type
- High price
- Plastic bottle
- No protection from UV rays
Verdict
In our opinion, it is one of the best pre-shaving oils that has everything essential and vital for its users. Plus, it offers a traditional shave-like experience.
Shaveology Pre-Shave Oil
Shaveology is a new entrant in the grooming industry, but it doesn’t compromise on quality. The company is known for delivering durable products and grooming accessories.
One of the products from its product line is pre-shave oil. It contains natural oils that are safflower oil, avocado oil, walnut oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E. The combination complements the shave creams, lubricates the skin, and lifts the flat-lying hairs. Though it contains all-natural and botanical oils, it still leaves no greasy residue. Also, it helps the razor to glide easily onto the skin without applying pressure.
No matter how tough beards you have, the ingredients will help to soften your skin and prepare them for shaving. Besides, it even prevents razor burn, bumps, skin irritation, and ingrown hairs.
According to our research, it is one of the best pre-shave oils for safety razors. However, it doesn’t work with electric razors. The company offers a small bottle that contains 2-fluid ounces, which makes it a travel-friendly product. The bottle lasts for almost 6-months of shaving.
Still, if you are not satisfied, the company offers a 100% Money-back guarantee to its customers.
Tip: apply pre-shave oil after washing your face with warm water. Massage oil and move against the grain to lift the flat-lying hairs. Let the oil soak into the skin, and then apply shaving cream.
- Moisturize the skin
- Prevents razor burn
- Soothes & condition skin
- Lifts-flat lying hairs
- Easy for a safety razor to glide
- Long-lasting and affordable
- Thick consistency
- Not good for electric razors
Verdict
In our opinion, it is one of the best pre-shave oils for beginners. The natural and botanical ingredients soothe particularly sensitive skin and offer a comfortable shave.
The Art of Shaving Pre-Shave Oil
Just like Taylor of Old Bond Street, the Art of Shaving also fixes its spot on our product reviews. The product quality and high demand are the two reasons we consider this company in our product reviews.
The unscented version of the Art of Shaving pre-shave oil is the best for sensitive skin. Besides, it even works with other skin types.
The Art of Shaving’s pre-shave oil contains botanical ingredients, natural essential oils, and extracts from natural origins. On the other hand, shave oil is free from alcohol, synthetics dyes, and parabens that cause skin irritation.
The natural and organic ingredients soften your tough beard hair for a close and smooth shave. Also, it protects against razor burn and is suitable for all beard types. And not only facial hair, but it also works amazingly well on body hair.
Unlike other shaving oils on the list, the Art of shaving pre-shave oil from the Art of Shaving misses out on offering a dropper. It increases the risk of spilling and wastage. Additionally, the thicker consistency does not make it versatile when it comes to using an electric razor.
Tip: Pair this pre-shave oil with the same company’s shaving cream to get a closer and smoother shave.
- Softens facial hair
- Protects against skin irritation & razor burn
- Clinically tested for sensitive skin
- Works on facial and body hair
- No dropper
- Difficult washing
Verdict
If you are looking for full-body pre-shave oil and a versatile product, this is the right pre-shave oil for you.
Badger Navigator Class Pre Shave Oil
Badger Navigator company is known for using all-natural ingredients to make grooming products qualitative and authentic. Besides, quality products uplift the grooming routine, which enhances your morning shave.
The essential ingredients include Olive Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Baobab Oil, Sandalwood Oil, Cardamom Oil, Vetivert Root Oil, Black Pepper Oil, Vitamin E, Vanilla, and RoseHip Extracts.
The Antioxidants protect from razor burn, while the Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Baobab oil creates a lubricated base, enhancing the shaving experience. It helps in easy gliding of the razor, eliminating skin irritation, and offering a comfortable shave experience.
Other ingredients like Seabuckthorn, Black Pepper, and Rosehip prepare the skin and offer a decent shave. It also offers a subtle manly fragrance.
Another feature of this pre-shave oil is it is cruelty-free, which will attract vegan users as well. Besides, it doesn’t contain artificial fragrances, dyes, parabens, and GMOs.
There is no alteration with the ingredients, nor are they grown with the help of chemicals, which is why the shave oil has got a USDA certificate.
- Vegan-friendly
- Uplifts shaving process
- Delivers comfortable shave
- Contain natural ingredients
- No dropper
- Difficult to dispense
- Pricey product
Verdict
The pre-shave oil from Badger Navigator is for the ones who want every single ingredient to be natural and organic. Plus, it is one of the best shave oils for men that do not undergo animal testing.
Taconic Shave Pre Shave Oil
Taconic believes in making premium quality men’s grooming products that contain quality ingredients. The key ingredients of this shave oil this pre-shave oil are:
- Vitamin E Oil
- Safflower Seed Oil
- Grapeseed Oil
- Lime Oil
- Castor Oil
Castor oil contains lower viscosity and is less likely to clog cartridge razors. However, it can make your skin oily. On the other hand, Vitamin E offers ample skincare benefits, yet there is no scientific evidence to it.
A combination of all the ingredients creates extra lubrication, which makes the beard softer and smoother, allowing the razor to glide easily and offer a closer shave. Besides, it protects from razor burns, bumps, and irritation.
Another benefit is that shave oil not only works well with any traditional razors but also shave creams.
The liquid solution comes in a spray cap bottle that eliminates the risk of spilling. The application process is simple and straightforward. However, too much oil application leaves a greasy residue. Moreover, sensitive skin guys or prone to allergies can also use this pre-shave oil since it is fragrance-free.
Tip: pour only a few drops or pea-sized amounts of oil into your palms. Rub both palms together to evenly distribute the oil and massage in a circular motion on your facial hair.
- No allergic reactions
- Softer and smoother facial hair
- Smoother and closer shave
- No scents
- Leaves greasy residue
- No Amber glass bottle
Verdict
In our opinion, it is one of the best pre-shave oils that will never clog your razors, nor will it clog pores. Also, it is compatible with all types of razors. Lastly, it works on all skin and hair types.
eShave Pre-Shave Oil
eShave is a company that makes grooming products out of natural ingredients. These ingredients prepare the skin by creating an ultra-slick lather or a layer of protection. Due to this, you will be able to glide your traditional or modern razor easily.
Besides, the shave oil contains an effective formulation that moisturizes dry skin, reduces irritation, and delivers a clean shave. The natural ingredients are as follows:
- Grapeseed Oil: Tightens skin pores
- Almond Oil: Hydrates skin and Soften hair
- Safflower Oil: Nourishes skin
- Cottonseed Oil: Hydrates deeply
- Castor Oil: Soothe redness
- Vitamin A & E: Antioxidants and skin protection
Moreover, eShave pre-shave oil contains white tea that offers a manly and pleasant scent. Other scents are verbena lime and orange sandalwood. Lastly, the pre-shave oil is vegan, paraben, and sulfate-free.
The pre-shave oil has a thicker viscosity, which is why it can create a slick base and cushion for easy shaving.
Tip: A few drops are required of eShave pre-shave oil to coat your beard hair.
The bottle will last for several months, which makes the pre-shave oil worth every penny. The bottle cap is the downside since it has snap-on closure, which can make things messy.
- Softens tough beard hairs
- Easy razor blade gliding
- Hydrates skin
- Risk of spilling
Verdict
In our opinion, it is one of the best pre-shave oils for traditional wet shaving.
Shave Secret Pre-Shave Oil
Shave Secret is a USA-based company established in 1991. The quality is top-notch since the company uses only natural ingredients. Due to this, it has become a talk of the town by many wet-shaving purists.
Despite using natural and quality ingredients, the price is pocket-friendly, which is another point to consider. The shave secret oil ingredients include a proprietary blend of multiple seeds and nuts, excluding peanuts. Moreover, it has distilled essential oils, menthol, and vanilla tea oil.
These oils replenish and nourish the skin beneath to uplift the shaving routine. Applying this pre-shave oil means no dry skin, rashes, nicks, cuts, and bumps. Also, you can use this pre-shave oil post-shaving routine to soothe razor burn as well. Lastly, you can use this oil under the shower as well. Isn’t it amazing?
Tip: Apply 1-3 drops before shaving with an electric shaver and 3-5 drops before shaving with old-school razors.
Shave Secret shaving pre-shave oil reduces razor friction, which will not tug or pull your facial hair and deliver a smoother shave. And it is believed that the fewer times a razor glides on the same spot, the fewer chances of cuts or nicks.
- Less razor passes
- Lasts long
- Creates cushiony lather
- Rinsing is easier
- Works well with any shaving creams or soaps
- Razor clogging issues
- Strong & Masculine scent
Verdict
If you are a beginner or have a fixed budget for a shaving routine, you can give Shave Secret a chance. It is one of the best pre-shave oils and would be one of the best decisions of your life.
So these are the best pre-shave oil reviews, which you can give a chance without thinking too much. All the pre-shave oils contain the factors that are essential for picking up the best shaving oils. Let’s have a look at those factors.
Buyer’s Guide
You cannot go and buy any pre-shave oil; it requires meeting some essential factors, which are as follows:
Lubrication Base
To derive a slick lubrication base, other brands use silicones while top ones stick to natural ingredients. What matters the most is how it affects the skin. Well, silicones do offer a slick shave, but they can dry your skin and clog your razors. Contrary to this, a blend of natural oils delivers an irritation-free shave and provides ample nourishment.
Ingredients
It is easy to sort out the quality pre-shave oil since it only contains vitamin e, carrier, and essential oils. You must avoid shaving pre-shave oil that contains harsh chemicals, synthetics, and artificial fragrances. Also, you must avoid ingredients ending with “cone.”For instance: silicone, dimethicone, etc.
Skin Type
Pre-shave oils complement your shaving creams and aftershave balms. Also, the application is for a shorter period, which means you don’t need to worry about your skin type. The pre-shave oil is not going to clog razors or skin pores.
Performance
Determining quality is a tricky task as it requires checking how well it lubricates and how closely it shaves without irritating the skin. An inferior quality shaving oil will irritate the skin and leave an oily residue. On the other hand, the quality shaving pre-shave oil leaves clean and soothing skin with a pleasant smell.
Bottle Size
Frequent travelers should consider this as a factor because you might want a small-size and lightweight bottle. Other users who prefer using pre-shave oil at home will only need to consider the price.
Budget
You don’t need to break the bank for buying shaving pre-shave oil. Also, it doesn’t mean that expensive shaving oils are the best. The right pre-shave will have quality ingredients and an affordable price. Don’t get tempted to buy expensive shaving oils for your shaving routine.
Razor Compatibility
It is important to check for the razor compatibility since it would not be feasible to buy a new razor post-buying a pre-shave oil. You must check whether the pre-shave oil you are interested in buying is compatible with your already bought shaving razor or not. Also, pre-shave oil’s thickness varies due to the inclusion of different ingredients. And the thickness may result in clogging your razors. We would recommend buying a thinner pre-shave oil that contains castor oil as it works amazingly well with all the razors.
Fragrance or Fragrance-free
Fragrance-free pre-shave oils are the best for men with sensitive skin or allergic conditions. Since you will be shaving your beard hair minutes after the application, the fragrance should not hold that much importance.
Consider these factors before buying pre-shave oils, and we bet you will end up buying one of the pre-shave oils from the list. Now let’s know the technique to apply the pre-shave oil.
How To Use Pre-Shave Oil?
Some natural pre-shave bottles come without a dropper, while some have snap-on closure, making the use of pre-shave oil difficult. Also, if you are a beginner, you must know the technique of using it.
For better understanding, we have divided them into steps:
Step 1: Wash Your Face
We recommend washing your face prior to pre-shave oil application to ensure that skin does not dry or irritate you.
For washing, you can either take a hot water shower, apply a damp towel on your facial hair, or just splash warm water on your face.
In our opinion, taking a hot water shower is the best as it will soften your hair and make the skin pliable.
Step 2: Pour 2-3 Drops in Your Hands
Pouring drops depends on the beard length. We need to coat every beard strand for easy gliding of the razor.
You can increase the number of drops if you have a bushy beard. Also, you should avoid over-application because it can leave a greasy residue.
Besides, if you have dry skin, we recommend you also apply it post-shaving along with your aftershave to retain the moisture level.
Step 3: Massage on Your Face
Now that you have rubbed both hands and spread the oil evenly, it’s time to massage your face.
After massaging, wait for a while to completely soak into hair follicles (roots). It will soften your facial hair and prepare them for shaving.
Step 4: Apply Shaving Cream
Now apply shaving foam, gel, or cream that you would generally do before shaving. You can use shave brushes as well to create a rich lather and lift the flat-lying hairs.
Final Step: Shave With Your Razor
Lastly, use your traditional or modern razor to shave your facial mane and get a neat and clean look.
FAQs:
1. What are the best pre shave oils?
Taylor of Old Bond Street, Proraso, Lather & Wood Shaving, and The Art of shaving pre-shave oils are a few of the best shaving oils to apply before shaving.
2. What does pre-shave oil do?
Pre-shave oils easily glide the razor so that they can easily shave off the facial mane. It helps in achieving a comfortable and close shave. Besides, the ingredients nourish, protect, and moisturize your skin and soothe post-shave irritation.
3. Can you shave with coconut oil?
Yes. Using coconut oil in the grooming routine as a pre-shave oil has been proven effective. But before applying, you need to be double sure that it is natural and not a blend of chemicals.
4. Can I apply pre-shave oil to the head or body?
Yes. You can apply pre-shave oil to the head and body. It aims at softening and lifting facial hair to offer a close and smooth shave.
5. Can pre-shave oil prevent acne?
Oils that contain inferior quality ingredients are likely to clog skin pores, which becomes difficult to rinse off and deeply cleanse. That’s where it starts causing acne. Ideally, you must select a shaving oil that contains only organic ingredients.
6. Can you shave with baby oil?
There is no harm in shaving with baby oil unless it irritates your skin. You should be careful while shaving and stop your razor requires multiple passes or delivers a dull shave.
7. Can pre-shave oil prevent razor burn?
The cause of razor burn is a selection of poor shaving tools and a lack of knowledge in using shaving tools. To get a comfortable and close shave, always shave with the grain, never use dull blades, and coat your beard with shave cream. Applying pre-shave oils means adding a layer of comfort and protection between the skin and sharp razor blades.
8. Is pre-shave oil worth it?
Yes, it’s worth every penny. It adds a layer of protection and does not irritate the skin post-shaving. It softens the beard so that the razor would not require it to pass multiple times on the same spot.
9. Are beard oils and pre-shave oils the same?
Many pre-shave oils contain the same ingredients as beard oils, which often confuses many users confused between beard oil and pre-shave oil. In reality, pre-shave oil and beard oil are two different products; however, you can use them alternatively if the manufacturer recommends.
Conclusion
In our opinion, pre-shave oil should be considered as an essential grooming accessory as it not only offers a close shave but also prevents many skin-related hassles. It is mainly beneficial to sensitive skin men and those with allergic conditions.
Many pre-shave oils boast of being super-effective, but only a few succeed in winning the hearts of users across the world. The article includes the best pre-shave oils that got so much love and appreciation from its users.
You can share your shaving experience with us about which premium product (quality pre-shave oil) you find the best and how you find it. You can also tell us the problems that the pre-shave oil solves after using it.
