Shave Cream and Shave Oil – The differences and how to get the best results.

Shave Cream

Shave cream is generally suitable for all skin conditions, especially sensitive or dry. You’ll definitely get the best experience if you use a shaving brush because this has the action of lifting the hairs away from the skin, making it easier to remove them with a razor. But before you even get to applying the shave cream, just make sure that you have a very sharp razor and have soaked your stubble for at least 3 minutes with hot water. Once you get underway with the razor, don’t forget to keep rinsing the blade.

This process really softens up the beard, and the effect of the hot water can increase expansion in the hair shaft up to 30%. If you have time (and we know you won’t!) get a hot damp towel and press in place over your face and chin for a couple of minutes. Set an alarm, in case you fall asleep. In fact, probably best left for a day when you don’t have to work.

Remember if your skin is sensitive, look for a product containing Aloe and/or Shea Butter, as these will help with recovery and provide superior softening and conditioning.

Shave Oil

If you want to get super accurate, shave oil is the best choice. Great for when you fancy a little topiary. Assuming you keep the oil activated with water, you’ll be able to glide your razor and easily see where it’s going. Steady though, or else you’ll end up looking like Baldrick.

Your choice of shave oil should contain silicones, this will allow the razor to hydroplane very cleanly along the surface of your skin, giving an ultra close comfortable shave.

In terms of conditioning the skin, soyabean oil is an effective ingredient as it helps to maintain the skins lipid barrier. Once compromised, this barrier can lead to problems, such as moisture loss. Moisture loss (as well as leading to cracking, dryness and scales) can then evidence itself in the lower layers of the epidermis causing poor function and weakness in the immune system of the skin.

We’ll bet you never knew there was so much to it! Anyway, we hope our quick, light little hub will make you smile, as well as giving you a better shave.

No smiles? Take a look at this topiary clip (please don't watch whilst shaving) :)