Pre-Shave Oils, Gels & Soaps
A pre-shave product is applied before your
shaving soap, cream or gel to prepare the skin and hair for a closer, more comfortable shave. At Shaving Time we stock a range of pre-shave oils, gels and soaps designed to soften bristles, lubricate the skin and create a smoother surface for the razor to glide over. Whether you shave with a
safety razor, straight razor or cartridge razor, adding a pre-shave step to your routine can help reduce drag and irritation, particularly if you have sensitive skin or coarse facial hair.
The Role of a Pre-Shave in Your Routine
A pre-shave step comes before your main lathering product, whether that's a traditional shaving soap or cream. Applying a pre-shave oil, gel or soap first helps to soften the hair shaft and can leave a thin protective layer on the skin.
This extra layer reduces friction between the blade and your skin, which can make a noticeable difference if you have sensitive skin, coarse or wiry facial hair, or you're prone to razor burn and irritation.
Pre-Shave Formats Explained
Pre-Shave Oils
Oils are applied to damp skin before your shaving soap or cream and lather. They sit on the surface of the skin to help the razor glide more easily, which is particularly useful for anyone shaving with a safety or straight razor.
Pre-Shave Gels
Gels are typically massaged into damp skin and used as directed by the individual product, helping to soften the bristles and prepare the skin surface before lathering.
Pre-Shave Soaps
Pre-shave soaps are worked into a light lather on their own, before your main shaving soap or cream, to cleanse the skin and begin softening the hair ahead of the main shave.
Who Benefits Most from a Pre-Shave Step
Not every shaver needs a pre-shave product, but it's a useful addition for those with sensitive skin, tougher beard growth, or anyone shaving close with a double edge safety razor or straight razor who wants an extra layer of glide and protection.
Pre-Shave Oils
Applied to damp skin before lathering, oils help the razor glide more easily across the skin.
Pre-Shave Gels
Massaged into damp skin to help soften bristles and prepare the skin surface before your main shaving product.
Pre-Shave Soaps
Lathered on their own before your main shaving soap or cream to cleanse the skin and begin softening the hair.
Key Features
- Available in oil, gel and soap formats
- Applied before your main shaving soap, cream or gel
- Designed to soften facial hair and help lubricate the skin
- Suitable for use alongside safety razors, straight razors and cartridge razors
Fragrance Profile
Fragrance varies across the individual products within this range, from unscented options to scented oils, gels and soaps. Check each product listing for specific scent details.
How to Use
- Wash your face with warm water to open the pores and soften the hair.
- Apply a small amount of your chosen pre-shave oil, gel or soap to damp skin.
- Follow the instructions on the individual product, then apply your shaving soap or cream and build your lather as normal.
- Shave as usual with your safety razor, straight razor or cartridge razor.
- Rinse with cool water and apply an aftershave or balm afterwards if you wish.
For help with the next steps, read our guide to using shaving soap and building better lather and our shaving brush technique and care guide.
Care & Maintenance
Store pre-shave oils, gels and soaps in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to help maintain their quality between uses.
Who Is It For?
- Traditional wet shavers using safety or straight razors
- Shavers with sensitive skin or coarse facial hair
- Anyone wanting an extra layer of protection before lathering
- Beginners building a full wet shaving routine
Related Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use a pre-shave product?
A pre-shave step isn't essential for everyone, but it can help soften the hair and protect the skin, particularly if you have sensitive skin or coarse facial hair.
Can I use a pre-shave product with any razor?
Yes, pre-shave oils, gels and soaps can be used as part of your preparation before shaving with a safety razor, straight razor or cartridge razor.
Should I rinse off a pre-shave product before shaving?
This depends on the individual product, as some are designed to be rinsed off while others are left on. Always check the instructions for the specific oil, gel or soap you're using.
What's the difference between a pre-shave oil and a pre-shave soap?
A pre-shave oil is applied to damp skin to help the razor glide, while a pre-shave soap is lathered on its own to cleanse the skin and begin softening the hair before your main shaving product.
Pre-shave oils, gels and soaps are an optional but useful addition to a traditional wet shaving routine, applied before your main shaving soap or cream to help soften the hair and prepare the skin. They're worth considering if you have sensitive skin, coarse facial hair, or simply want an extra layer of comfort before you pick up your razor.
Sold out
