Top 5 Pre-Shave Products and How to Use Them
Top 5 Pre-Shave Products and How to Use Them
If you've ever experienced razor burn, dryness, or irritation after shaving, your pre-shave routine might be the missing piece. Using a quality pre-shave product helps to soften facial hair, prep the skin, and create a smoother glide for your razor — especially important for traditional wet shaving.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best pre-shave products, how they work, and how to use them for maximum benefit.
🧴 What Is a Pre-Shave Product?
A pre-shave product is designed to prepare the skin and hair before shaving. It typically hydrates the skin, softens the beard, and adds a layer of protection under your lather. Whether in the form of an oil, lotion, or soap, it helps reduce friction, leading to fewer nicks and less irritation.
⭐ Top 5 Pre-Shave Products You Can Try Today
1. Proraso Pre-Shave Cream (Eucalyptus & Menthol)
One of the most popular pre-shaves in the world. The cooling menthol and soothing eucalyptus not only wake you up but also calm the skin and soften the hair.
- Best For: Normal to oily skin
- How to Use: Apply a small amount to damp skin before lathering with shaving cream or soap.
2. Taylor of Old Bond Street Pre-Shave Herbal Gel
Lightweight, non-greasy, and perfect for sensitive skin. It forms a slick barrier that helps the blade glide easily.
- Best For: Sensitive skin and daily shaving
- How to Use: Massage into the beard area before applying shaving cream.
3. Martin de Candre Camomille & Citron Oil (45ml)
This luxurious French-made oil combines the calming properties of chamomile with the bright, refreshing scent of lemon. Rich in natural ingredients, it's ideal for softening the beard and soothing the skin pre-shave.
- Best For: All skin types, especially dry or sensitive skin
- How to Use: Warm a few drops between your hands and apply to damp skin. Let it sit for 30 seconds before applying your lather.
4. The Goodfellas' Smile Dawn of Glory Pre-Shave Gel (150ml)
This Italian-made pre-shave gel delivers powerful protection and hydration. The Dawn of Glory scent blends masculine, woody, and spicy notes, creating a bold and invigorating shaving experience.
- Best For: Men who want both performance and fragrance
- How to Use: Apply a small amount to damp skin, massage in gently, and proceed with your usual shaving cream or soap.
5. Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements ICE CUBE 2.0 Mentholated Pre-Shave Soap
This innovative pre-shave soap combines slickness, hydration, and menthol cooling in one powerful puck. With activated charcoal and aloe, it cleanses, preps, and refreshes all at once.
- Best For: Shavers who want a cooling boost and excellent glide
- How to Use: Wet the puck and rub directly on the face or lather with your hands before applying shaving soap or cream.
💡 Tips for Using Pre-Shave Products
- Less is more: You don’t need a lot — a thin, even layer is enough.
- Apply to damp skin: This helps lock in moisture and prepares the hair.
- Let it sit: Give the product 30 seconds to work before lathering.
- Use with a shaving brush: This helps mix the pre-shave with your lather for even better glide.
🪒 Do You Really Need a Pre-Shave?
If you struggle with razor burn, tugging, or dryness, a pre-shave could be a game-changer. It’s a small step with a big payoff, especially if you use a DE safety razor or straight razor.
🛍️ Ready to Upgrade Your Routine?
At Shaving Time, we stock a handpicked selection of premium pre-shave products to suit every skin type and shaving style. Explore our collection and take your wet shaving experience to the next level.