Try a shave oil once and never go back

by Mike Marenick

Over the years we have seen many changes made by the razor blade companies.  However, the innovation in products people use with these blades has been very slow.

First let’s talk about your blades. When men started shaving many years ago a single blade was used. Today some razors are made with as many as five blades. The razors are getting more expensive but they don’t last any longer and are you really getting a better shave with more blades? How many blades do you really need to shave your face? Getting a great shave doesn’t require more blades, it requires a better shaving surface.

So let’s talk shaving cream, lotion, gel and even soap

Products like these have one purpose in shaving. These products make the surface slick so the razor can glide across your skin without nicking, cutting or causing razor burn. Creams and gels often have alcohol in them which will actually dry the skin. Lotions and soaps lose their slickness rather quickly. The razor blade companies are very aware that these products do not provide a smooth slick surface. Think about it, why would your razor blade need one of those lubricating strips if your shaving product was doing its job?

A shaving oil is typically a blend of oils designed to make the shaving area slick so your razor will glide across your skin

The best shave oils are made with pure natural oils.  They should not include lanolin or mineral oil which can be harsh to the skin. They should also not contain any fragrances other than the natural smell of the oils. Natural oils are derived from various plants or foods.

To shave with a shaving oil you will only need 3 to 5 drops of oil. You will first wet your face with warm water.  Then smooth on the 3 to 5 drops all over the entire shaving area. Wait a few seconds and then re-wet the area. The oil will create a slick surface with the water that your razor will simply glide across. This slick surface will help to prevent your razor from nicking or cutting your face.  It will also help to prevent razor burn that is often caused when the razor drags across your face. Many people have seen fewer ingrown hairs by using a shaving oil as well.

When you are done you can simply towel dry your face.  The shave oil should leave your skin soft and smooth without the dryness and irritation that is often found after shaving with a cream or gel.  If you like, you can even smooth on a few more drops of shaving oil for even more moist skin.  You should try to avoid an alcohol based aftershave after using a shaving oil.  The alcohol will dry and irritate your skin and is completely the opposite of what the shave oil is designed to do.  Many people even learn to use a light unscented moisturizing cream after they shave. The combination of shaving oil and moisturizing cream is an excellent daily treatment for your skin.

If you have never tried a shaving oil be sure to start with a fresh blade for your first shave

Because it is such a unique experience try it three times in a row so you get used to the feeling. Don’t be surprised by the size or cost of a shaving oil. They often come in one-ounce bottles that cost around $10 to $15 depending on the quality of the oils that are used. Sometimes you will find half ounce bottles for around $7.  A typical one-ounce bottle should last from 30 to 45 shaves.  The price will be well worth the great shave you get from this small amount of shaving oil. Also, if you use an electric razor, consider using a few drops as a pre shaving oil.