The perfect smooth, close shave is desirable, but often unattainable without the right tools and products. A good shaving cream should work double duty to protect your skin and reduce irritation or razor burn while also moisturizing and softening your hair and skin. Finding the best men’s shaving cream you can use daily can be tough. The process usually involves buying and wasting money on multiple products and brands through trial and error. But a good shave cream can make all the difference in your daily shaving experience.
Personal grooming is not a new concept – both men and women have taken the time to look and feel their best for centuries. A survey of 1,000 men and 1,000 women looking at the differences in how the genders care for their hygiene reveals that on average, women put one more hour a week into caring for their hygiene. In all, the average woman spends 10 hours showering, shaving, moisturizing, etc., while men spend 9 hours doing the same.
Though women traditionally spend more time on grooming than men, you might be surprised about just how concerned men actually are about their body hair! A survey of 2,000 men found that 55 percent of American men are ashamed or embarrassed about their body hair. Many avoid certain activities like swimming or the gym because of their body hair. A total of 60 percent of participants said they have put off shaving their face out of “dread” or simple laziness, with 63 percent saying their appearance suffered from the lack of grooming.
No matter what your own unique grooming habits are, StudyFinds is here to help! We’ve put together a list of the best men’s shaving cream made up of the top recommendations across 10 expert websites. Already have a favorite shaving cream of your own? Let us know which one in the comments below!
The List: Best Men’s Shaving Cream, According to Experts
1. Kiehl’s Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream − White Eagle
You don’t even need any water when using this brushless shave cream. All you need is your razor. According to Observer, “This shave cream provides a slick and smooth surface for your razor when applied to a dry face.” This product is suitable for all skin types, and should leave you feeling cool and smooth after a quick rinse.
“Even a small amount of this hand-applied preparation creates super-smooth results and a clean and energizing feeling, thanks to the added menthol and camphor,” adds Ape to Gentleman. The added cooling effect can be a welcome wakeup call if used in the morning.
“Kiehls is a slightly more expensive brand, but then again, investing in good skincare is worth it. The Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream White Eagle is a firm favorite and one of Kiehl’s most popular products,” says The Trend Spotter.
2. Proraso Shaving Cream
Proraso has been around for 70 years and is perfect for those who want a simple, no frills shave cream with great protection and a traditional scent. Men’s Health explains that “a thicker cream will help protect your face from nicks and cuts.” This cream is thicker and works better paired with straight razors so your razor doesn’t become clogged.
The Proraso shaving cream is packed with skin-nourishing ingredients, such as such as coconut and eucalyptus oil that will leave you feeling moisturized even after you’ve shaved. “The company’s long-time experience in the skincare market has allowed them to create a one-of-a-kind shaving cream designed for men who prefer a classic shaving routine,” says Men’s Journal.
The brand originates in Florence, Italy, which adds to the design: “The retro design of the packaging makes it an easy product to pick off the shelves; however, its Italian heritage runs deep. Known for being a choice product for men with thick hair, the formula is extremely thick and sticky until water is added,” explains Observer.
3. Nivea Men Sensitive Shaving Gel
If you have sensitive skin Nivea also makes a great gel formula that soothes skin and prevents irritation. You can easily use this with any type of razor by applying it to a wet face and lathering up.“It is formulated with chamomile, witch hazel extracts, and vitamin E, making it a soothing and nourishing gel that is fast-absorbing and great for a close and comfortable shave,” adds The Trend Spotter.
A bottle of this gel will run you only about $4-$5 per bottle, so you can enjoy a smooth shave at drugstore prices. The formula is also free of dyes or alcohol that might irritate skin. San Diego Magazine writes “Nivea blends chamomile extract and witch hazel to calm down stressed skin and cut down on irritation. The vitamin E also locks in moisture to ensure refreshed skin.”
“Nivea for Men promises a smooth and clean shave with its no-itch gel formulated for sensitive skin. Stubble is softened instantly with the gel, and your razor should glide effortlessly across the skin,” adds Observer.
4. Cremo Original Shave Cream
Enjoy more of a premium shave experience with a cream that comes in several deluxe scents like Sage & Citrus or Silver Water & Birch. They even have a “Reserve Collection” that has even more sophisticated scents like Bright Cardamon, Dry Papyrus and Aromatic Palo Santo. NY Post says “This Cremo shave cream is truly next level. It’s ‘impossibly slick’ formula leaves skin smooth while providing you with an impeccably close, comfortable shave.”
Cremo does require mixing with water, but you can simply dampen your face and mix a dollop on the surface of your skin. A little goes a long way! “The cream will give you a close shave without leaving your cheeks and throat red or cut,” raves Men’s Gear.
According to The Trend Spotter, “You only need to use a small amount because it is concentrated, ensuring it lasts longer, around 90 days. The sage and citrus scent is fresh and masculine, adding to the overall appeal of this shave cream.”
5. Harry’s Shave Gel
Harry’s is one of the most simple and effective shaving brands for an affordable price. You can grab the gel in an aerosol can or the cream formula in a tube for around $16 per piece. Byrdie says “Harry’s is a brand that leads the pack in efficacy and accessibility, taking a no-frills approach to a reliable, close shave (not to mention, the rest of your skin and hair regimen, too).”
The simple formula also makes this shave gel a winner for those with sensitive skin. Orlando Magazine mentions “this doesn’t include pesky chemicals—just natural ingredients such as aloe vera and cucumber gel—which both calm and cool the skin, ensuring that irritation doesn’t occur.” Harry’s also includes eucalyptus and mint oils to give your skin a refreshing feeling.
“Harry’s scent is marked by a unique blend of 12 essential oils and extracts with eucalyptus and fresh mint notes. The mint leaves you with a fresh and cool feeling after every shave. This formula works best on wet skin, and it needs to sit for a few minutes to achieve the full softening effect on your facial hair,” adds Observer.
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Sources:
- Observer
- Ape to Gentleman
- Men’s Health
- Men’s Journal
- The Trend Spotter
- San Diego Magazine
- NY Post
- Men’s Gear
- Orlando Magazine
- Byrdie
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This post may contain affiliate links.
