Best Shaving Cream for Men – Sensitive, Budget, and Luxury (Buying Guide)

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In this article, we will look at the best shaving creams for men and the importance a good shaving cream have in getting a great wet shaving experience.

In the world we live in today, grooming is everything. The internet and mainstream media are filled with images of young men who are well dressed and groomed. Their hair is well trimmed, and they have an enviable close and smooth shave.

Sure some look good with scruffy beards, but this look is certainly for the minority of modern men.

Best Shaving Cream at a Glance

Preview	Product	Rating
	The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Shaving Cream for Men - Mens Beard Care, Protects Against Irritation...		Check Price
	Proraso Shaving Cream for Men, Refreshing and Toning with Menthol and Eucalyptus Oil, 5.2 Ounce		Check Price
	Proraso Shaving Cream for Men, Sensitive Skin Formula with Green Tea and Oatmeal, 5.2 Oz		Check Price
	Proraso Pre-Shave Conditioning Cream for Men, Sensitive Skin Formula with Oatmeal and Green Tea, 3.6...		Check Price
	Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl, 5.3-Ounce		Check Price
	Truefitt & Hill Shaving Cream Bowl - Trafalgar | Smooth Glide for Incredibly Close, Yet Comfortable...		Check Price
	Jack Black Beard Lube Conditioning Shave, 6 Fl Oz		Check Price
	Cremo Original Shave Cream, Astonishingly Superior Smooth Shaving Cream Fights Nicks, Cuts And Razor...		Check Price
	Billy Jealousy Hydroplane Super Slick Shave Cream, 8 Fl Oz		Check Price
	Pacific Shaving Company Caffeinated Shaving Cream - Helps Reduce Appearance of Redness, With Safe,...		Check Price

Last update on 2022-06-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Celebrities and TV commercials sell the story that getting a close and clean shave is easy and anyone can do it when they command it to be so. While there is some truth in that, you should also note that you play the leading role in getting the best shave possible.

That said, getting a close, smooth shave boils down to two crucial tools; your shave cream and a good razor. Yes, there are several other factors including your brush, hair texture, technique, and your attention span, but all these are secondary to your razor and your choice in shaving cream.

We have already looked at the importance of the best blades for safety razors in another article, and the razors themselves play in getting you a close shave. In this piece, we shall look at the best shaving creams. We also will review some of the best options on the market this year. The reviews will give you an easy time picking the right one for your needs. We start with our choice of the best shaving cream – The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Shaving Cream.

Things You Should Consider before Buying a Shave Cream (What Separates a Good One from the Rest)

When I mentioned the reviews would help you have an easy time when choosing a shaving cream you probably raised your eyebrow and wondered what in the world I was talking about. But before you laugh at me, please understand one thing. The market is flooded with all kinds of options of shaving creams – all of which claim to be the best shaving creams in the industry. But despite their claims, they are all different and excel on different levels.

So yes, the process of choosing the best shaving creams is not easy. In addition to considering the price and packaging, there are other factors you need to consider. Below is a shortlist to get you started.

1. Important: Determine What Is Your Skin Type?

Before you purchase any shaving cream, the first step should be to determine your skin type. There are three types of skin, namely dry, oily and sensitive. If you are one with sensitive skin, you should stay away from products that are harsh on the face. However, if you have oily skin, astringents in the cream will help to reduce the oiliness of your skin and keep your pores from getting clogged.

2. Ingredients in the Shave Cream You Should Avoid

The components that shave creams contain are also critical. This is because they make the product what it is. They give it its efficiency, scent, and color. While all the ingredients listed in this section are approved by the relevant authorities, it is advisable that you understand and probably avoid them as much as you can.

• Parabens – There are no two ways about it. Parabens are synonymous with trouble. There is nothing else one can say about a product that has been linked to different health issues in the past including allergies and asthma. Parabens are one of the active ingredients in most skincare products. They are used to help prevent the growth of bacteria. But you can get a close shave without this ingredient.
• SLS – The acronym sounds like one you would hear in a James Bond movie right? Well, while it has a nice ring to it, SLS stands for Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. Its full name is shocking, right? I know, it knocks you back to reality. SLS is included to help in cleaning the skin before shaving. While it does a good job in what it was designed for, it also works to strip the skin of its natural oils. Even worse, professionals state that the compound stays in the body for up to 5 days.
• SLES – This is yet another ingredient contained in most shaving creams. It is added to try and counter the effects of some petroleum-based products used on the skin. It does, however, come with its fair share of side effects as well. These side effects include organ toxicity.
• Fragrance – Today, almost all beauty, and skincare products contain an aroma factor. To differentiate their product and increase sales, companies are increasingly using ‘fragrance-free’ or ‘no scent’ phrases to lure people into buying their products. We have identified that it can be slightly difficult to avoid these ingredients. But that does not mean just simply giving up. No. Also, note that all ‘smells’ are not the same. The term is used to refer to over 3000 different chemicals in the industry. You should try as much as you can to make intelligent choices.

3. Ingredients to Include in Your Shaving Cream

We have looked at the ingredients you should try and stay away from. On the other side of the rainbow, there are some ingredients you want your shaving cream to include. These are nature’s gifts such as almonds, jojoba, sandalwood, and the like. These ingredients (natural ingredients) prove to be great for the skin, usually are not oily, and maybe most important of all – they evaporate fast from the skin.

In addition to this, you should be on the prowl for a product that includes eucalyptus, sandalwood, rose, and lavender. They have proven to be gentle on the skin and leave a sweet natural smell on your face.

Now that you know what to be on the lookout for when choosing the best pick for your needs, let’s proceed and have a look at our reviews of some of the top shaving creams available today.

Best Men’s Shaving Creams

1. The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Shaving Cream for Men – Best Shaving Cream (slightly expensive, but worth it)

On average, every shaving male stands in front of a mirror over 20,000 times. Yes, this is too many times. But then again, it is a lifetime, probably between 70 and 100 years. And with so many hours spent shaving (collectively), it is only logical that one may get a little complacent. With complacency comes sloppiness and accidents. The Art of Shaving (the company presenting this one-of-a-kind shaving cream) does not want this to be your story.

When creating The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Shaving Cream, they envision a product that would provide a superior shaving experience. To them, the process of getting an enviable close shave includes ample preparation and lathering as well as shaving and moisturizing. One can achieve all these four steps with great ease using the Sandalwood Cream. The cream creates a foamy lather that protects you from skin irritation. Additionally, it works to nourish and moisturize the skin.

In its list of ingredients are essential oils, coconut oils, and glycerin. One of the essential oils is Sandalwood which provides the cream with a subtle scent that remains with you all day long without getting allergies.

The Sandalwood oil also doubles up as an antiseptic agent which helps in healing nicks and spots on the skin, slowing down aging and relieving inflammation.

For a shaving cream company that is fairly new in the industry, this unit is pretty badass. That said, it should be noted that it is costlier than most shaving creams. But on the bright side, you only need to use a small amount of lather for every shaving session.

Related: Best Shaving Creams for Straight Razors

2. Proraso Shaving Cream, Refreshing, and Toning – Classic Italian Barber Cream

Proraso – the legendary barber cream from Italy! This shaving cream is a product presented to us by an Italian company that has been around for close to a century. It, however, developed its very first pre-shave cream back in 1948.

While the Proraso shaving cream comes in many versions (lines), in this review we shall focus our sights on the Proraso Green Line Shaving Cream version. It is the general use of shave cream. It also comes highly recommended for those who are new to wet shaving or have just discovered the brand.

As for its features, the Proraso comes with Menthol and Eucalyptus. These two ingredients work to refresh and revitalize the face. I should point out that the menthol smell is rather strong. When you open the cream, you will not fail to notice it the good news being that its effects dissipate quickly.

Proraso is designed to provide a super-rich and thick cream which protects and provides great comfort while getting a close shave. And not only is the lather formed thick but it also foams and lathers fast.

The shaving cream works with all bladed razors whether straight edge, safety, or cartridge razors. Formulated with vegetable oils and natural ingredients. In the list of ingredients, it is important to note it is free of silicones, parabens, and artificial colors.

3. Proraso Shaving Cream, Sensitive Skin – Best Shaving Cream for Sensitive Skin

Proraso is an Italian brand dedicated to providing high-quality shaving creams. It has been in business for close to a decade. Over the years, it has amassed a great deal of knowledge on how to create saving creams that solve user problems. This much is clear with its product line. Courtesy of its extensive knowledge and experience, many have fallen in love with it. Today it is used by men in homes and in barbershops – it doesn’t get any better than that.

One of the products presented to you by Proraso is the White Line shaving cream. This cream is marketed as a cream that goes out of its way to protect sensitive skin against irritation. It gets its mild and gentle nature from the oatmeal and green tea extracts it contains. The cream helps in preventing redness and above all, it leaves the skin feeling soft like a baby’s butt. In addition to this, it features a fruity smell of apple and lime. Yes, many men love this scent –it is quite refreshing.

Aside from the white shaving cream, Proraso has 3 more product lines which include blue, green (reviewed above,) and red. These product lines are marketed differently and excel on different fronts. For sensitive skin, the Proraso White Line shaving cream line is best.

Below is a detailed breakdown of what you gain with this Proraso White Shaving cream.

Scent

The scent is mild citrus accompanied by a subtly sweet note that suggests apple notes which have got everyone talking. But despite their marketing, the lime note in the scent is minimal. It seems like a mild Bergamot smell is present. Some consumers feel that this is more of a medicinal composition. However, I find it subtle, crisp, and refreshing. It is a great summer and spring smell.

Lather

This cream produces a rich lather whether you use it with a shaving brush or without. The lather is easy to make and does not have you rubbing on your face or swirling your brush on a bowl for long. It makes quick of the shaving task. This is made possible courtesy of the hot soap manufacturing process. In the process, the soap is left to mature in tiny batches for only 3 days. the result is a fine, creamy, and thick soap that lathers easily.

Ingredients

Looking at the list of ingredients listed, it is important to point out that the cream is cruelty-free. Also, 90% of the ingredients have a natural origin. What is even better, the cream is free of phthalates, parabens, mineral oils, silicones sodium laurel sulfate,e, and artificial coloring.

4. Proraso Pre-Shave Cream, Sensitive Skin – Best Pre-shave Cream

Proraso Pre-shave cream is a well-kept secret. It is not a shaving cream per see – it is a pre-and post-shaving cream, but I feel it belongs here on this list.

This is yet another product from Proraso. Like the 2 products above already reviewed by this company, the Proraso Pre-shave Cream has been used for shaving preparations by several generations of Italian barbers. It is created in Italy and is also great as a post-shave moisturizer; in that, it helps in preventing noticeable razor rashes and softens and protects the skin and beard during the shaving process.

Below is a breakdown of what this product offers. Note it is perfect for both shaving beginners and pros looking for a close shave.

Additives

While most pre-shave creams tend to be slightly pricey, this Proraso pre-post-shave white cream is justified for the price it fetches. Unlike most pre-shaving products, the Proraso white does not contain ingredients that will clog your pores. Its list of ingredients is; glycerin, water, oats, fragrance, coconut oil, and green tea. When you read the long list of ingredients the product is made up of, you will notice that it does not contain Isopropyl Myristate which tends to cause clogging of pores after continuous use.

The oats and green tea contained in this product are beneficial to sensitive skin. Green tea is rich in antioxidants which are warriors against aging effects. Oats, on the other hand, are natural exfoliators and moisturizers.

Last but not least, coconut oil treats and moisturizes sensitive skin. Overall this pre-shave product will smoothen and moisturize your skin. It will also act as a shield on your skin. When paired with high-quality shaving soap, you will easily achieve a close shave – free of irritations.

Smell

It is easy to get caught up in what this pre-shave cream can do for your skin. However, while the three ingredients listed are its strengths, it is also important to take note of its scent. It is fruity and fresh. It has hints of apple and lime which men seem to love. Note that the scent is not too overwhelming – it is just enough to be noticed. The smell lingers for a while even after you are done shaving. It gives the face a refreshing feeling.

Texture

While it is true that this product feels a little dry, it is rich and creamy. This more than makes up for its rather ‘dry’ feeling. But the beauty of it all is that the dryness can be counteracted by moistening the skin before its use. It is this rich cream that does the actual protection of the skin and beard.

5. Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl – Classic English Shaving Cream for Men

There is no way a review and buying guide of the best men’s shaving creams can be complete without featuring this bestseller – Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream. The Taylor of Old Bond Street is to some the yardstick with which to measure up against. It is the golden standard that has existed for the longest time.

The company was formed back in 1854 and was well known for botanical extracts which it specialized in when it started. Since then, however, the company has diversified and produced lots of other products that are fine and of high quality. It is the high quality of the products that it produces that led to such popularity and fame.

Reviewing this product, it is hard not to fall in love with it. It has so many great features to offer. Its customers stand by it.

Below are some reasons why you should buy this product.

• The consistency resembles that of lotions. However, it is significantly easier to work up a luxurious lather. It comes with a bowl made from sandalwood adding to the overall convenience of lathering the shaving cream.
• Given the time the company was formed, some might argue that its products are out of style. No one likes to be associated with a product his grandfather used making them feel out of touch and out of style with the current generation. But contrary to what trendy people believe, Taylor products are timeless and are perfect for modern men looking to have a smooth face and a great shave.
• The lather this product produces is perfect and provides ample cushioning ensuring a delightful shave. The experience with this shaving cream is comfortable. It leaves the skin moisturized and smooth. Sandalwood achieves this effect courtesy of its glycerin, one of its active ingredients. Glycerin provides ample moisture to your skin and enhances its smoothness.
• This product is best used with straight razors and double-edged safety razors. Yes, you can use it with the best electric razor for men or the best disposable razor for men, but the effect and results will not be as good. Speaking of safety razors, this shaving cream ranks among the top for use with safety razors.
• The name sheds some light on the fragrance of the product sports. Sandalwood is one of the most popular masculine scents. Sandalwood is an Indian type of wood that has been used for over 4000 years because of its great smell and has become very popular in shaving creams. Taylor combined this scent with a couple of other tones from light vanilla to cedar. However, if you feel sandalwood does not work for you (your choice), you could try different scents available from Taylor of Old Bond Street. These include coconut, almond, lavender, grapefruit, lime, lemon, rose, and peppermint.
• It is important to point out that this product fetches a higher price than most competitors. While this might cause some to shy away, you should also note that it lasts longer than most competing products. As such, in the long run, it makes for fair value.
• If you still are not convinced, you should probably watch the video below. It is a testament to the wonders this product will work on your skin.
• Please note that shaving creams from Taylor of Old Bond Streetares very thick, so it may look as if the box is not full, but the weight of it is always correct.

6. Truefitt & Hill Shave Cream – Trafalgar Scent – Great for All Skin-Types

Truefitt & Hill Shave Cream – Trafalgar Scent is quite a traditionally styled and packaged shaving cream. It has its roots in London, which as you will find out, is a great thing. But before that, we should mention that the cream has been around for more than a century providing men with a great shaving experience. And in a world where businesses rise and fall, one has to wonder – what has made the Truefitt & Hill Shaving Cream stick around for so long with such success?

Well, they must be doing a couple of things right – starting with the packaging. On the lid is a royal crest. The crest is put there because the cream is manufactured at the word of H.R.H the Duke of Edinburgh. While the Duke of Edinburgh might not be great at driving cars as he once was, he still has the looks and flawless skin for a guy who has seen as many sunsets as he has. Part of the reason why his skin is great might be because of the Truefitt & Hill Shaving Cream.

But aside from the royalty it denotes and represents, the cream is loaded with numerous features. At the top of the list is the fact that it contains glycerin. The glycerin gives the cream excellent skin hydration qualities. Moreover, the cream also provides men with smooth feeling skin. With a smooth feeling on the skin, the safety razor will glide over the face with ease and greatly reduce the chances of sustaining skin irritations and rashes. You’ll also not sustain nicks and cuts.

If you love scented creams, you will love the Trafalgar scent on this cream. And no the cream doesn’t smell like amputated arms and gun powder. What lady or man would be attracted to that scent anyway? Luckily, the scent is more of mild sandalwood with some added spiciness. But if this scent doesn’t meet your fancy, Truefitt & Hill avails extra scents you can choose from.

The only downside reported is the fact that the cream doesn’t last as long as its counterparts. Once you open it, you should use it fast before it dries up. But here’s a little trick to bypass this problem. Use a few drops of glycerin to moisten the cream every once in a while to keep it from drying up completely.

7. Jack Black Beard Lube Conditioning Shave – Great Lubrication

If you are looking for a shaving cream that will serve more than one purpose, then Jack Black Beard Lube Conditioning Shave cream is the product for you. Unlike most gels and foams, this product is a 3-in-1.

Its quality and versatility are just two of the number one reasons why it is popular with the masses and has made this list. Jack Black is a brand that has worked hard to make a name for itself and produces a wide variety of grooming products for men. Of the many products in its inventory, this Lube Conditioning, designed to act as a shaving cream, pre-shaving oil, and conditioner, is the best display of its innovative prowess and attention to quality.

I love this product because it does not dry the skin when applied. On the contrary, it helps to prepare your face for a great shave by penetrating the hair roots and softening. In addition, the product withholds moisture which facilitates a smooth shave. Your safety razor will glide with ease across your skin.

Last but not least, this product also works to improve your shaving experience by getting rid of skin irritation. This is the reason for often being labeled as the top option for men with sensitive skin.

This quality cream is formulated with unique ingredients which include phospholipids. Phospholipids are rich in fatty acids which help to retain moisture by binding it to your skin and at the same time supporting the foundation of the skin.

Other ingredients include jojoba oil, glycerin, and macadamia nuts. The glycerin is essential as it provides lubrication and protective cushioning for the face while you shave. With this shaving cream, nicking your chin will be a thing of the past (except for those who are excessively clumsy).

What’s more, eucalyptus, menthol and peppermint have been added to provide a revitalizing and refreshing feel after a shave. You should note that this product is alcohol-free and smell-free. It also features no colorant, is tested and approved by dermatologists,s and is created using vegan products.

The shaving cream has a ‘see-through’ texture. This characteristic allows one to see the area being shaved making for an efficient and cut-free shave. It is perfect for mustaches, sideburns, and even for head shaving with a razor.

8. Cremo Original Shave Cream – Great Against Razor Bumps & Acne Prone Skin

Cremo Original Shave Cream is a rather special product. Most have fallen in love with it for its price. It is budget-friendly, and it stomps all other shaving creams in its budget range.

This product has carved out space for itself in wet shaving. Using this product, you will notice that it does not produce a thick lather as most shaving creams do. Working with this cream, you only need to use your finger to apply it – the best shaving brush is not required.

Does its lack of lather cause it to be an inferior product? Of course not. Some argue that creams that lather easily to a thick foamy paste increase the number of air pockets and as such also increase the number of cuts, nicks,s, and general irritation when shaving. The absence of air forms a protective layer on the skin.

Instead of dead air, this product is full of molecules that ensure a close shave without causing any irritation. It is maybe the best shaving cream against razor bumps or acne-prone skin on the market. This cream features no gimmicks or games. It is straightforward and is crafted to provide the best possible grooming.

The product ingredients include Aloe, Lemon Extract, Macadamia Seed Oil, Olive Leaf Extract, and Papaya Extract.

The cream comes with a subtle citrus smell that is not too overpowering. It is free of paraben and is not tested on animals.

The Aloe Vera contained in the product works to moisturize the face after a shave. It keeps the skin from drying and flaking.

You will be pleased to note that this product works with almost all types of razors including electric, disposable and double-edge safety razors for a wet shave.

Those who prefer straight-edge razors will benefit from this cream as it provides a thin covering allowing you to concentrate on the area you are shaving and your technique.

9. Billy Jealousy Hydroplane Super Slick Shave Cream – 3-in-1

The Billy Jealousy Hydroplane Super-Slick Shave Cream prides itself on being a sophisticated option. It has one thing in common with the Jack Black Beard – it is a 3-in-1 product and is a perfect blend of a skin conditioner, shaving cream, and pre-shave oil.

This shaving cream creates a foamless lather. The lather is rich and clear. It ensures you get a clean and smooth shave. Reading the list of ingredients, most people gain confidence in this product.

It contains dimethicone as an active ingredient. This is silicone water-based oil that is designed to provide a thick barrier across the skin making it possible to get a close shave without nicking or cutting yourself. Another active ingredient is silica which has a molecular structure resembling sand. This ingredient works to reduce the chances of skin irritation, razor burn, and razor drag.

Billy Jealousy does not contain alcohol or perfumes. You will, however, find some natural fruit oils that offer great moisturizing and a mild scent and citrus effect. Unlike most shaving creams, it does not dry up and a few drops of water are sufficient to keep it super thick throughout the shaving process.

This shaving cream features a clear texture as well. It might require some getting used to, but when you do, you will appreciate it as it helps you see the area you are working on and the progress you make.

Last but not least, you will be pleased to note that the cream does not clog the razor. A simple rinse and it flows out leaving you ready for the next stroke.

10. Pacific Shaving Company Caffeinated Shaving Cream – Affordable & All Natural Ingredients

We all love our morning coffee, right? To most of us, it gives us the much-needed jolt to kick-start our day. But before you wonder what I am doing talking about coffee in a shaving cream blog review, note that my interest is not in the coffee but the caffeine it contains. This is the magic of coffee. But what if you could get your caffeine from another source? Well, you can.

The Pacific shaving company’s shaving cream is laced with caffeine. Sure it is not the same as getting it from our morning coffee, but caffeine nonetheless. The caffeine in the product is great for the skin.

How so? Pacific Shaving Co. Caffeinated Shaving Cream comes packed with antioxidants that help to reduce the swelling and puffiness of the skin in the morning which is great for those who have had a long, seemingly unending night.

But caffeine is not the only benefit you derive from using this product. It also contains spearmint, aloe, and shea butter all of which help to nourish and protect the skin. At this point, it should be pointed out that all ingredients in this product are natural, animal testing free, and fragrance-free.

You will love the fact that with cream, less is more. It is affordable compared to most creams in its quality range.

How to Use a Shaving Cream (Like a Pro) for the Best Result

When you take the time to think about it, applying a traditional shaving cream is not exactly a complex calculus problem you need to solve. No, it is not that hard. However, there is an art to applying it.

The first step of nailing a close and clean shave is getting a high-quality product (we have already established this).

The second step is to learn the application technique. Having a great shave cream and lacking in application technique will have you missing your goal.

Below is a breakdown of the process and techniques. It is divided into two; using your hand – or using a shave brush.

Using a Shave Brush like a Pro

Ask any shaving expert, and they will say that the best cream application method is by using a shaving brush. Why is this?

• For one, when using a brush, means you will have to mix the cream in a bowl before its application. Working the cream in a bowl means that you have better control of the heat and moisture and can produce a richer lather.
• Shaving brushes lift hairs from the skin which gives the blades an easy time cutting the hair without pressing down on the razor. Consequently, you have far fewer chances of nicking, cutting, causing skin irritations, and preventing ingrown hairs.
• With shaving brushes, you also can apply the cream more uniformly

Shaving brushes vary widely and feature varied fibers including boar hair, synthetic material, badger hair, and horsehair. Horsehair is considered to be the very best of all shaving brushes. But despite this, most newbies to wet shaving love starting with synthetic brushes. Badger hairs, on the other hand, are the most popular and have different grades.

When mixing your cream in a bowl, you need to be cautious not to make it too thick or too thin. It should just be right. It may take a while to get the hang of this. After getting a rich lather, the next step is to apply room-temperature water to your face. This will help the lather retain its quality and integrity and do a great job of softening the hair follicles.

The last step involves using the brush to spread the cream on your face. Place some cream on your cheeks and then use the brush to swirl it on the area you intend to shave. You should be thorough as you want to have a smooth shave in the end. Do not apply too much as this, instead providing great cushioning will cause the hair to lie flat on the skin making it difficult to shave without applying pressure.

Using Your Hands like a Pro

Put a smallish drop of cream in both hands and rub them in circles. Add several drops of water and continue rubbing. Apply the cream to your shaving area evenly and ensure that it does not clump.

Whichever method you choose to apply shaving cream it is recommended that you do so after taking a shower. The heat and moisture will help soften the follicles and prepare your skin and hair for shaving.

Important Post-shave Rituals for a Good Result

Your post-shave ritual should include an aftershave balm – we have found that The Art of Shaving After-Shave Balm or the ProrasoAfter-Shavee Lotion does the trick here.

Shave Cream or Shaving Soap – How Are They Different?

Both of these products are designed to achieve the same goal. They, however, are different products and have some slight differences. Understanding these differences will help you achieve the best shave you can.

Soap

Needless to say, the soap is rather an old school. It has been in existence for more than a century and represents a method of wet shaving conducted by our grandfathers and great-grandfathers.

The major difference from the cream is probably the fact that a good shaving soap comes packed in a hard puck. And since to create lather you need a shaving bowl, they require that water is added before creating a thick lather. Using soap, the best way to create thick lather is by using a shaving brush.

Many wet shaving gurus prefer the triple-milled soaps. Sure they are harder than most shaving soaps, but once you dedicate some extra time to them, the results obtained are through the roof. Another benefit of the triple-milled soap is that they are designed to last longer in comparison to most shaving soaps. They can last for even four months.

If you are a newbie, note that there is a learning curve to using soap. But with some work, you can nail it with ease.

Cream

Shaving creams have been in existence since the 1940s. Nonetheless, they represent the modern shaving technique. Most of the high-end and quality shaving creams are contained in jars or tubes. Gone are the days when they came in spray cans.

Modern creams are thicker and require some bit of effort to lather up. They also contain some natural ingredients including Shea butter and aloe which help in nourishing and protecting the skin.

Do not forget about shaving gel which is also packed in cans. They take a few seconds to lather and are recommended for those with sensitive or dry skin.

Differences

One of the differences already mentioned includes their packaging. Creams are packed in cans or tubes while soaps are packed in puck-like discs. But aside from this, there are other differences to be noted.

Smell

First, let us demystify the deep rotted myth that shaving soaps are unscented. On the contrary, they come in a wide variety of scents. It is the same thing with creams. This is an important fact to know for those who have sensitive skin and think their problems are solved when they use shaving soap.

Before you make a purchase confirm if the soap is scented or unscented. You always have a choice.

Soap or Cream – Lubricating and Cushioning

Now back to lathering.

A shaving cream takes a little effort to lather. The lather provides ample lubrication and cushioning. The same is available when working with shaving soaps. However, experts say that the lather, lubrication, and cushion are way better with soap.

You will, however, have to work slightly harder to get the lather needed.

With a shaving soap, you will also need to add some water. Sure it will take some practice to get it right (especially the perfect amount of water).

Price

Shaving creams tend to be slightly more costly compared to shaving soaps. The difference is however not significant. With high-end shaving creams, you can part with close to $30. However, you still can find quality products in the price range of $10-$15. Shaving soaps are also in this latter price range.

FAQ

Method Used to Compile Our Best Shaving Cream List

We take this opportunity to state this here and now, we take our job of reviewing seriously. There is a host of shaving creams available on the market these days and given a chance the list would be insanely long. We spend most of our time researching, reading reviews, and putting together every bit of useful information we come across on the specific products.

In addition, we consider the price points and try to pick shaving creams that are affordable to most men. Yes, there is no doubt that some of the best things in life are priced high but thankfully this is not always the case. When coming up with the list, we pay close attention to the ingredients in the products. We prefer those that sport natural ingredients as we think they are better for your face and overall health.

Yes, we are dedicated to reviewing shaving creams as they are introduced into the market – it is our full-time job. However, regardless of how much time we put in, we cannot possibly go through all the products available – they are just too many and overwhelming. Nonetheless, we think we did a great job on this list. It will serve you well in your search for the best shaving cream on the market.

And with that, our shave cream bestsellers review and buying guide have come to an end. However, take some time to look around the site for other topics that might interest you relating to wet shaving.

More reading:

Best Shaving Soap for Straight Razor – (Buyers Guide)