The mighty pre-shave oil has been used for generations to reduce irritation and generally improve the overall enjoyment of a man’s shave. However, we’re sad to say that in recent years this traditional shaving essential has all too often been overlooked. Below, we explain the benefits of using pre-shave oil and why exactly it deserves to be in your daily routine!
What is pre-shave oil?
In an age of super high-tech grooming products, there’s something refreshingly simple about the humble pre-shave oil. This easy-to-use product doesn’t need to wow you with science; it simply rocks up and gets the job done!
Rather unsurprisingly, the main ingredients in pre-shave oils tend to include a careful collection of non-greasy oils that work with the skin to improve your daily shave. These base oils often include sunflower, olive and coconut.
On top of these, you can expect to find an array of other essential oils and aromas – such as sandalwood, lavender and patchouli – that provide further nourishment and fragrance for your skin.
When blended together, these oils create all-conquering elixirs that excel at reducing skin irritation during a wet shave. They achieve this in three main ways: hydrating the skin, softening stubble and improving razor glide.
How to apply pre-shave oil
To unlock the full potential of pre-shave oil, you’ll need to prepare yourself with a shower or hot towel. The steam will help to soften your facial hair and open your pores, allowing all the oils to soak in and work their magic.
Now that you’ve prepared your face, place a few drops of pre-shave oil between your palms and rub them together to warm the oil. Next, massage the oil through your whiskers, working right down to your skin in small circular motions. This will help to raise hairs from the skin to provide maximum protection from razor burn. It’s important to make sure you coat the entire area you wish to shave, so spend a good amount of time working the oils into your stubble.
Once you’re satisfied, wash your hands clean and begin to lather your favourite shaving cream, soap or gel on top. The oil will remain in place and provide an extra barrier between your skin and your razor blade. The end result is a super-smooth shave with far less irritation!
The best pre-shave oils
At The Shaving Shack, we stock two outstanding pre-shave oils that we swear by. The first is by leading men’s shaving brand The Bluebeards Revenge. At just £9.99 for 100ml, their vegan friendly Pre-Shave Oil is championed by barbers and serious shavers all over the world for its high-quality ingredients and unique barbershop scent. In a 100% recycled plastic bottle, it’s as good for the planet as it is for your skin!
The second comes from one of Britain’s most iconic shaving brands – Taylor of Old Bond Street. Their Sandalwood Pre-Shave Oil boasts a non-greasy base that offers exceptional protection throughout your shave. At £12.99 for 30ml, this premium oil also offers a lasting scent that’s sure to impress!
For more high-quality traditional shaving products, visit our shop today!
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