Shaving Cream, Gel, Soap or Foam – Why Use Them? The Complete Guide
Why Use Shaving Cream?
There are several reasons why it is a good idea for you to use shaving cream, gel, soap or foam when using a wet shave razor:
Whilst using shaving cream or similar lubricant is essential when using a razor, electric shavers are most often used dry.
However, there are also cordless electric shavers that can be used wet or dry, and are suitable for shaving creams should you wish.
Can I use my Usual Soap for Shaving?
Although it is possible to use your regular soap for shaving, I would not advise it and recommend that you opt instead for a dedicated shaving soap.
Your regular bath-time soap is intrinsically for getting you clean, whilst the primary aim of shaving soap is to lubricate, so that your razor blade glides effortlessly across the skin.
Shaving soaps are specially formulated to create a really good, lasting lather and therefore contain high levels of fat and glycerin.
Whilst some regular soaps can leave your skin feeling dry, a good shaving soap will reduce the risk of irritation and razor burn, whilst leaving your skin feeling soft and hydrated.
Which is Best? - Shaving Foam, Gel, Cream or Soap?
The answer to this question is pretty subjective, but there are a few things to consider when deciding which you prefer to use:
Shaving Foam
Shaving foam comes in aerosol cans and comes out ready to use.
Simply dampen your skin and then shake the can well, dispense into your palm and apply a thick layer to the beard before shaving.
You may well find that it evaporates on the skin before you have finished, in which case you will just need to apply a bit more.
Pros of Shaving Foam
- Convenient - just shake the can and use, if you are short on time, a can of foam is a quick and easy choice with no need to spend time creating a lather
- Low Cost - can be inexpensive, although a can will not last as long as the other options
Cons of Shaving Foam
- Effectiveness - the foam dissipates relatively quickly and provides a thinner layer of protection against razor burn and irritation than gels, creams and soaps
- Environment - aerosol cans are known to be harmful to the environment
Shaving Gel
Shaving gel sometimes comes in cans with a pump, or in tubes or tubs. Some may be in aerosol cans, but we would always suggest avoiding them for environmental reasons.
Pros of Shaving Gel
- Transparent - easier to see what you are doing, good for shaping facial hair
- Effective Barrier - gels are good for sensitive skin - they maintain moisture and help the blade glide smoothly
Cons of Shaving Gel
- Clogging - razor can become clogged up with gel so you need to rinse regularly during shave
Shaving Cream
Shaving creams can come in tubes or tubs and some need to be used with a brush to create a lather, whilst others are applied directly to the face.
Creams and soaps made for shaving give a really good, thick layer of protection and contain moisturizing oils to aid glide and hydration.
Pros of Shaving Cream
- Good Protection - provides a thick, oil rich barrier against razor burn and irritation that is lasting
- Hydrating - and moisturizing, leaves skin soft and smooth, good for sensitive skin
Cons of Shaving Cream
- Cost - can be expensive, although a little goes a long way
- Time - a few minutes are required to work up a lather
Shaving Soap
Shaving soaps require a shaving brush and bowl for you to whip up a good lather prior to use.
Pros of Shaving Soap
- Effective - provides a very effective barrier
- Moisturizing - maintains water to leave skin hydrated and smooth, good for sensitive skin
Cons of Shaving Soap
- Time - you need to take a little time to work up a lather with brush and water
- Cost - a good shaving soap can be a bit pricey, but should last a while
Choosing the Right Shaving Cream for you
In general I think gels, creams and soaps trump shaving foam for their effectiveness and moisturizing qualities and I am not really a fan of using aerosol cans.
However, if you are in a hurry and value time over all other considerations, shaving foam is convenient. Our choice is one for sensitive skin with no alcohol content.
Our Choice
Shaving foam specially formulated to give a good glide and avoid irritation of sensitive skin. Contains no alcohol. Value for money at $8.50 for a good sized, 200ml can.
Shaving gel is a good choice if you want to sculpt your facial hair as it tends to be clear so that you can see better what you are doing.
It is also good for sensitive skin as it locks in moisture and provides a good glide.
Our Choice
Oil based, clear non foam shaving gel for a waterless shave. Oil enhances blade glide - no water required, comes in a 6oz tub for around $12.
I think the advantage shaving creams have over soaps is that they can provide a good, lasting lather with or without using a brush.
Our choice is one that is simply spread over wet skin and massaged to form the lather.
Our Choice
Shaving cream containing natural ingredients including soothing Aloe. Paraben free, no animal testing. Value for money at $12 for two 6 oz tubes.
A good shaving soap is undoubtedly my favourite - used with a brush to form a thick, creamy, slick lather which, when applied with the brush in circular movements, helps to raise up the hairs and soften them ready for the perfect close shave.
Our Choice
Tallow based soap, handcrafted and hand poured in the US. 4oz in an over-sized jar so no separate shave bowl needed. Light, barbershop scent. Long lasting for $15
Top Shaving Tips
In addition to the above, you may wish to use a pre-shave oil, especially if you have sensitive skin, to provide a further barrier between skin and blade and increase the glide.
An alum block is ideal for applying to any nicks and cuts.
