A close shave can be tough to master. If you’ve tried everything from a single-edged safety razor to the classic five-blade disposable variety and are still experiencing razor burn, nicks, and the occasional ingrown hair, it may be time to reassess the supporting members of your grooming arsenal. Rather than throwing in the (ideally hot) towel, try a good quality shaving cream. Although the drugstore varietals often come with an impressive ability to foam and froth up, they often fall short on where it matters; ensuring a smooth shave. On the other hand, a good shaving cream for men will work to reduce friction, allowing your blade of choice to pass easily over the skin, allowing for a close, nick-free shave. Plus, the upper echelon of shaving creams for men also serve to nourish the skin, preventing post-shave itch.
For a smooth shave, take your pick from our edit of the best shaving creams for men.
1. Proraso Shaving Cream
An ultra-rich, creamy shaving cream, the Proraso Shaving Cream is ideal for proponents of the old-school shave. The iteration in the white tube is designed for those with sensitive skin, and boasts a fresh, uplifting fragrance of lime and apple. Best used with a shaving brush, it lathers up to provide an easy shave, with the addition of lactic acid working to gentle exfoliate skin while oatmeal and green tea soothe.
2. Jack The Barber Sandalwood Shaving Cream
Inspired by barbershop traditions, the Jack The Barber Sandalwood Shaving Cream is best applied with a shaving brush to form an impressive lather. A velvety-smooth formula, it ensures a smooth, comfortable shave, leaving skin feeling nourished and moisturised after. Plus, the classically masculine sandalwood scent is one you’ll want to carry with you throughout the day.
3. D.R.Harris Lavender Shaving Cream
Made with coconut oil and glycerin, the D.R.Harris Lavender Shaving Cream ensures a well-moisturised shave. Best worked on with a brush, a little goes a long way with this one. Plus, the lavender scent is the perfect relaxing fragrance for nighttime shavers.
4. Bulldog Original Shaving Gel
If a gel formula is more your speed, the Bulldog Original Shaving Gel is the way to go. Though the formula doesn’t foam up, the gel spreads easily over the skin and provides light hydration, allowing for a slick shave and effortless razor glide. Made with aloe vera, camelina oil, and green tea, it’s soothing and moisturising, working to nullify any residual redness and calm your post-shave skin.
5. Jack Black Supreme Cream Shave Lather
Combining a nourishing plant oils macadamia and soybean with hydrating glycerin, the Jack Black Supreme Cream Shave Lather allows for a supremely close shave free from nicks and cuts. Easy to use, it can be applied with your fingers or a shaving brush.
Words by Theo Rosen
Feature image courtesy of Cristiano Miretti
