Shaving cream for men: how to choose and use it

Which shaving cream should you choose?

Start with your skin and shaving method, rather than a particular brand. Cream and gel both belong in a wet shave, so the bathroom shelf does not need to host a format debate. A dry shave with an electric razor does not require water or shaving cream.4

• For very dry or sensitive skin, look for a shaving cream labelled for sensitive skin.
• For recurring ingrown hairs, choose fragrance free shaving cream and give the hair time to soften before shaving.
• For wet shaving, use shaving cream or gel rather than relying on soap and water, which can dry your skin and leave hair catching in the razor.
• For irritated skin after shaving, choose a moisturizer without fragrance or alcohol rather than an irritating aftershave.

What does shaving cream actually do?

Shaving cream moisturizes skin, softens hair so it is easier to cut, and adds a protective layer between the blade and skin. Shaving creams are generally more moisturizing and less irritating than soap. The cream supports the shave; the razor still removes the hair. A clean shave depends on preparation and technique as well as the product, so the cream does not get to take all the credit.14

How to use shaving cream

1. 1Wet your skin and facial hair with warm water. Shave just after a shower, or use a warm, wet washcloth beforehand. Warm, moist skin and softened hair make a better starting point than a dry face.
2. 2Apply shaving cream or gel to the area you want to shave. Leave it on for 2 to 3 minutes before starting so it can further soften the hair.
3. 3Use a sharp razor and shave in the direction your hair grows. Follow the growth pattern in each area rather than assuming your cheeks and neck need identical strokes.
4. 4Use light, short strokes without rushing. Try to shave each area once rather than repeatedly passing the blade over it. Do not press down hard or pull the skin taut.
5. 5Rinse the razor after each swipe to remove hair and shaving cream. A clogged blade is not a reason to push harder.
6. 6Rinse away the remaining cream thoroughly. For recurring ingrown hairs, rinse with lukewarm water, gently pat dry with a clean towel, and leave your skin slightly damp before applying moisturizer.

A brush can help lift the hairs and coat them with shaving cream, but it is an applicator, not an admission ticket to shaving.4

What if you keep getting razor bumps?

Razor bumps are ingrown hairs: short, curly hairs turn back into the skin instead of growing outward. They can also appear during the stubble phase or after beard trimming. Stopping shaving or trimming is one option. If you continue, soften the hair at the end of a shower, apply a pre shave gel for about 30 seconds, then apply fragrance free shaving cream for 2 to 3 minutes. Shave with the grain without stretching the skin or pressing the razor down.3

Going against the grain can give a closer shave, but it increases the risk of ingrown hairs and irritation. If bumps are the problem you are trying to solve, a closer shave is not the better trade. Rinse off both the gel and cream completely, because residue can irritate your skin.13

How should you shave if you have acne?

Shaving can irritate skin and make acne worse. Try an electric razor or a disposable blade razor to see which works better for you. With a blade razor, use a sharp blade and shave lightly to avoid nicks. Never try to shave off a spot. If bumps keep returning, see a dermatologist: what looks like acne can be ingrown hairs or another skin problem, and changing shaving cream alone will not identify the cause.23

What should you apply after shaving?

Apply moisturizer after rinsing to rehydrate your skin and help prevent irritation or flaking. If your skin is dry and irritated, avoid products containing fragrance, alcohol or other irritants. Shaving also makes skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when going outside, and reapply after swimming or sweating. Ideally, wait 24 hours before extended sun exposure after shaving.1

When should you replace the razor?

Change the blade or discard a disposable razor after 5 to 7 shaves. Replace it sooner if you notice rust, cracks or chips, more tugging, or a need for extra pressure to get a clean shave. Between uses, let the razor dry completely and store it somewhere dry. Do not leave it in the shower or on a wet sink, where bacteria can grow.12

How often should you use shaving cream?

Use shaving cream or gel each time you wet shave. The smoothing effect comes from cutting hair at skin level, and hair can reappear within hours or a few days. Many men shave daily to stay clean shaven, but stop shaving irritated areas until they recover. Shaving does not make hair grow back thicker: the cut hair has a blunt tip, which can look thicker and feel stiffer than an uncut tip.4

When should you stop shaving and get help?

Razor burn usually looks like a blotchy rash and can cause burning, stinging, itching or tenderness. Razor bumps look more like small pimples. For irritation after shaving, stop shaving the affected area, use a cool washcloth, and apply moisturizer. Razor burn commonly lasts a few hours to a few days. Contact a healthcare professional if the rash does not improve within a few days, looks infected, or keeps returning. Severe ingrown hair problems also need medical care.5