Men’s Shaving Oils That Give the Most Satisfying Shave

In pursuit of the perfect shave, men’s shaving oil is a must-have in your personal grooming arsenal. Whether you’re using it as a pre-shave oil or together with shaving cream, it’s your answer to combat razor burn, rashes, ingrown hairs, nicks and cuts. Plus, if you have facial hair to navigate, men’s shaving oil makes it easy to groom your beard, goatee or sideburns.

How you use shaving oil

You can use men’s shaving oil morning and evening, on its own, before shaving cream, or after your shave. Apply it to wet or dry skin to soften the toughest hairs and form a protective barrier against irritation. 

Don’t be tempted to use more than just a few drops–a little goes a long way! Gently massage the shaving oil into your skin using circular motions, making sure all your facial hair is covered. Lift your beard hair so you are able to cut it more evenly and have a closer angle. Don’t go overboard with the shaving oil as too much will clog your razor and make shaving difficult. 

“Massage the oil before shaving to prep sensitive skin and condition tough bristles. Massage right into the beard to condition the beard hair. I recommend doing this in a hot, steamy environment so the pores will be open, leaving a little bit more flexibility for the hair and softening the bristles so they don’t jar as much against the razor,” instructs Charlotte McHale, Clarins Training Manager.

Pro Tip: Never shave against the grain. Simply put, never shave in the opposite direction of your hair growth. Instead, shave with the grain, in the direction of your hair growth. 

“This technique will guarantee a more comfortable shave. While it can be tempting to shave against the grain because it helps you get much closer to the skin, it also increases the risk of skin irritation, razor bumps, or even razor burn,” says McHale.  

Is it a better shave?

Using men’s shaving oil guarantees a great shave because you’re not skipping steps. If you’re guilty of hasty shaves in the shower using a bar of soap or shampoo (we’re not judging), you’re missing out on the benefits of a truly great shave.

Shaving oil benefits for your skin

Men’s shaving oil benefits your skin in many ways. As a base applied before lathering, it protects your skin from the razor whilst softening your facial hair, allowing a close comfortable shave. It also leaves your face conditioned and moisturised.

Other benefits of using men’s shaving oil include:

Reduces ingrown hairs

If you suffer from bumpy, itchy, and painful ingrown hairs, upgrade your shaving routine with ClarinsMen’s Shave Ease Oil. This comforting oil reduces the risk of developing ingrown hairs by softening your stubble, allowing for a smooth shave that won’t cut hairs too close to the skin or at the sharp angles that cause ingrown hairs. 

No more razor burn

Common side effects of a poor shave include razor burn, redness, and itchiness. Shaving oil works as a barrier that protects skin from the razor whilst enabling a friction-free shave, as well as locking in moisture to prevent irritation.

Prevents nicks and cuts

If you’re regularly cutting yourself while shaving, you’re probably doing something wrong. Before picking up your razor, apply shaving oil to hydrate your skin, soften your facial hair, and create a slick surface over your skin to make shaving easier, ultimately preventing cuts.

Hydrates skin

Besides preventing fine lines and wrinkles (and many other benefits), keeping your skin hydrated makes for a smoother, easier shave. By using a pre-shave oil, you’re locking in all the moisture in your skin, which ensures a smooth, friction-free shave. 

Men’s shaving oils offer a natural solution

Ditch the chemicals in favour of natural, skin-loving essential oils. Many skincare products contain harmful chemicals that dehydrate and age the skin. When you use a natural pre-shave oil for men, you’re not only ensuring a smooth and comfortable shave, but you’re choosing the best long-term care for your skin too. 

Is coconut oil or baby oil just as good for shaving?

In a pinch, shaving with coconut oil or baby oil will get the job done, but using a specially formulated men’s shaving oil is much better for your skin. Oils that contain natural essential oils of rosemary, eucalyptus and mint organic drops, which guarantee a smooth shave but are low on the grease factor and won’t clog the skin pores. 

Using men’s shaving oil is one of the best ways to upgrade your skincare and grooming routine. For the most satisfying shave, follow up your routine with ClarinsMen After Shave Soother, which comforts, smooths and moisture-perfects ‘razor-stressed’ skin. You can also treat your skin to a refreshing splash of aftershave energiser, setting you up for an invigorating day.

Read next: The Modern Guide To Men’s Grooming