For most men, shaving is a non-negotiable part of the daily grind. But what if that routine could be more than just a chore? The key to upgrading your shave from an irritating inconvenience to a moment of pure comfort and luxury isn’t just about the razor—it’s about the shaving cream.
A high-quality shaving cream provides the lubrication and cushion needed to protect your skin from the blade. It hydrates, softens, and prepares your beard for a clean, close cut, helping you avoid dreaded razor burn and ingrown hairs. Forget the cheap, aerosol foams that dry out your skin; here are our expert picks for the best shaving creams that deliver a flawless shave every time.
What Makes a Shaving Cream "The Best"?
Before we dive into our picks, it's essential to know what to look for. The best shaving creams are formulated for performance, protection, and a great post-shave feel.
Lather Quality: A great cream produces a thick, rich, and dense lather that creates a protective cushion between your skin and the blade. This prevents nicks and cuts and allows the razor to glide smoothly.
Lubrication and Glide: Look for ingredients like glycerin, natural oils (e.g., coconut or olive oil), and aloe vera. These provide the essential glide that reduces friction and helps the blade move effortlessly across your face.
Skin-Nourishing Ingredients: Top-tier creams hydrate your skin as you shave. Ingredients like shea butter, vitamin E, and essential oils help prevent dryness and leave your skin feeling soft and refreshed.
Scent: While a great scent is a personal preference, the best creams feature natural, sophisticated fragrances that don't overpower or irritate the skin.
Our Top Picks for the Best Shaving Creams
We’ve tested countless products to bring you a curated list of the absolute best on the market, each excelling in its own category.
Best Overall: Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream
This British classic is a benchmark for quality and performance. It consistently earns top marks for its incredible lather, slick glide, and iconic fragrance. The thick, rich foam provides outstanding protection, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned wet shavers. The warm, masculine sandalwood scent is a timeless favorite that lingers subtly after the shave.
Why It's a Winner: Delivers a consistently superb shave with a classic, sophisticated scent.
Best For: Anyone looking for an all-around top performer that has stood the test of time.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Cremo Barber Grade Original Shave Cream
Cremo has become a favorite for its unique, concentrated formula that requires no lathering brush. Instead of a big, airy foam, it provides a slick, low-lather cream that is incredibly slick and effective. It's an excellent choice for men with easily irritated skin, as it’s formulated without many of the common irritants found in other products.
Why It's a Winner: Provides a highly effective, low-irritation shave with exceptional glide.
Best For: Men with sensitive skin prone to razor burn and irritation.
Best Budget-Friendly: Proraso Shaving Cream
Hailing from Italy, Proraso offers a barbershop-quality shave at an unbeatable price. The formula, which contains eucalyptus oil and menthol, creates a refreshing and invigorating sensation on the skin. It whips up a quick and creamy lather, providing excellent cushion and a clean, close shave without breaking the bank.
Why It's a Winner: Fantastic performance and classic scent at a truly accessible price point.
Best For: Beginners or anyone looking for a high-quality, economical option.
Best Luxury Experience: Castle Forbes 1445 Shaving Cream
If you're ready to indulge in a true luxury shave, Castle Forbes is the gold standard. A small amount of this highly concentrated cream creates a voluminous, long-lasting lather that is incredibly protective and hydrating. The scent is subtle and refined, and the post-shave feel is second to none. It's a premium product that proves a little goes a long way.
Why It's a Winner: Delivers a top-tier, indulgent shaving experience with a rich, lasting lather.
Best For: The discerning gentleman who wants to treat shaving as a true ritual.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Shaving Cream
No matter which cream you choose, mastering the application will elevate your shave.
Prep Your Face: Always wash your face with warm water or a gentle cleanser to open pores and soften the hair.
Use a Shaving Brush: For creams that lather, use a brush to apply the product in a circular motion. This creates a richer lather and lifts the hairs, preparing them for the blade.
Re-Lather: For a second or third pass, re-apply a fresh layer of cream to ensure your skin is always protected.
Investing in a quality shaving cream is one of the simplest and most effective ways to transform your daily grooming routine. By choosing the right product for your skin type, you can leave behind the irritation and embrace a truly smooth, comfortable shave.