Can you use shaving cream with an electric razor?

Should you use shaving cream with an electric shaver?

The answer depends on whether you are dry shaving or using a permitted wet routine. An electric dry shave skips water and shaving cream, which makes the lather an unemployed extra. General advice to apply cream before shaving describes a wet routine; do not treat it as permission to use cream with your particular machine.1

What shaving cream can you use with an electric shaver?

If your razor permits shaving cream or gel, choose a moisturizing shaving product. For very dry or sensitive skin, look for a cream labelled "sensitive skin" and choose gentle products. No particular cream is identified here as compatible with your razor, so check the machine's directions before choosing one.123

In wet shaving, cream moisturizes the skin and softens hair so it is easier to cut. A cream or gel has a practical job in wet shaving: helping the razor glide, rather than providing bathroom special effects. Soap and water alone can dry the skin and cause hair to catch in the razor.14

How to prepare for a permitted wet shave

1. 1Check your electric razor's directions first. Use the following skin preparation steps only when the machine permits shaving with cream or gel.
2. 2Wash the area with a cleanser labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. Soften the hair with warm water after a shower or with a warm, damp washcloth.
3. 3Apply shaving cream or gel. General wet shaving guidance suggests leaving it on for two to three minutes to soften the hair.
4. 4Follow your machine's operating instructions. For reducing razor bumps, general shaving guidance favors shaving in the direction hair grows and avoiding repeated passes over the same area.
5. 5Rinse the cream from your skin, then use a cool, damp washcloth. Finish with moisturizer to rehydrate the skin.

What if shaving leaves bumps or irritation?

Avoid shaving irritated skin until the irritation has resolved. If you have acne, shave lightly and never try to shave off spots; shaving can make acne worse. Trying an electric razor instead of a disposable blade razor, or the reverse, can help you find the better option for your skin.13

Clean an electric razor every five to seven shaves, following its cleaning instructions. If razor bumps persist after changing your shaving habits, see a dermatologist. Untreated razor bumps can leave deep grooves or raised scars, so persistent bumps deserve more than another change of shaving cream.2