AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO BEST SHAVING CREAMS FOR MEN

The search for a perfect shaving cream is essential in achieving a smooth, comfortable and elevated shave.  From combating irritation to minimizing razor burn, the right shaving cream is key in elevating your shaving experience from just ok to magnificent. With a plethora of options available, it's important to choose a shaving cream for men that suits your skin type and addresses your specific grooming concerns.

Shaving creams are one of the most popular options among shave lubricants because they're effective and easy to use. Whether you're combating dryness, oiliness, or seeking relief for sensitive skin, there is a men’s shaving cream for you with those essential concerns in mind.

Lather vs. No-Lather Shaving Creams

There’s an ongoing debate between lather vs. no-lather shaving creams among men's grooming enthusiasts. Some favor the traditional richness of lathered shaving creams, others like the convenience and simplicity of no-lather options. There are advantages and drawbacks of each option but it depends on your preferences and shaving ritual.

men's shave cream in bowl with shave brush, urth

Lather Shaving Creams

Lather shaving creams are a staple in traditional grooming routines, prized for their ability to create a rich, luxurious foam when whipped with a shaving brush. The creamy lather helps  soften and lift facial hair, allowing for a smoother, closer shave while hydrating and protecting the skin. The lathering to some is a ritualistic part of the shaving regimen, invigorating the senses and preparing the skin for the blade. Lathering shave creams are offered in a wide range of scents and formulations and cater to the preferences of men who appreciate the art of wet shaving. 

No-Lather Shaving Creams

No-lather shaving creams offer a modern option to traditional lather-based products, formulated for those seeking convenience without sacrificing performance. These innovative formulas come in gels, lotions, or creams that can be applied directly onto the skin without the need for a shaving brush or lathering process. Despite their lack of foam, no-lather shaving creams provide excellent lubrication and protection, allowing the razor to glide smoothly over the skin for a comfortable shave. Ideal for busy individuals or those with sensitive skin, these products offer a fuss-free solution to a close, irritation-free shave with less effort.  

Once you’ve decided on lather vs. no lather options. The next step is to determine the best formulations that works best with your skin type.

Skin Type

Characteristics

Recommended Shaving Cream

Dry Skin

Tends to feel tight, flaky, or rough. May experience discomfort after shaving.

Choose shaving creams enriched with moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin, shea butter, or coconut oil. These hydrating agents help replenish moisture levels, leaving the skin feeling soft and nourished after shaving. Look for formulations that also contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera or oat extract to alleviate dryness and reduce irritation.

Oily Skin

Prone to excess sebum production, resulting in shine, enlarged pores, and a predisposition to acne.

Choose lightweight, oil-free shaving creams with mattifying properties to control excess sebum production and minimize shine. Look for ingredients like witch hazel, tea tree oil, or salicylic acid, which help regulate oiliness and unclog pores without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Avoid heavy, greasy formulations that may exacerbate oiliness and lead to breakouts.

Sensitive Skin

Easily irritated, with redness, itching, or burning sensations, particularly after shaving.

Opt for fragrance-free or hypoallergenic shaving creams specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for gentle, non-irritating ingredients such as chamomile, aloe vera, or green tea extract, which help calm inflammation and soothe irritation. Avoid products containing alcohol, artificial fragrances, or harsh chemicals that may trigger sensitivity reactions.

Normal Skin

Balanced, with minimal sensitivity and no excessive oiliness or dryness.

Choose the versatility of men’s shaving cream formulated for normal skin, which typically offer a balanced blend of moisturizing and soothing ingredients. Look for formulations enriched with hydrating agents like glycerin or shea butter to maintain skin hydration, along with botanical extracts such as chamomile or calendula to soothe and refresh the skin. Look for a lightweight texture that absorbs easily without leaving a greasy residue.

 

man with shaving cream on face, urth

urth’s Shave Formula - an enriched & nourishing men’s🪒shave cream softens facial hair, lifts hair up and away from the skin and forms a protective cushion between your face and razor, allowing for a smooth close shave. This plant powered shaving cream for men can be used with or without a shave brush and is infused with chamomile, green tea, ginseng and pure essential oils to hydrate, soothe, reduce razor burns, razor bumps and ingrown hairs. Perfect for all skin types - including men with sensitive, dry, combo, and oily skin.