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Best Pre-Shave Oil

Updated March 2024
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
The Henna Guys Unisex Pre-Shave Oil
The Henna Guys
Unisex Pre-Shave Oil
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Bottom Line

Good value in a pre-shave oil that moisturizes the skin and also can work for a post-shave application.

Pros

Conditions and moisturizes beards, mustaches and other body hair. Both women and men can use it, as it has a mild scent. Made from natural oils, so it won’t affect the pores of the skin. Softens coarse facial hair to deliver a smoother shaving experience. 2-ounce bottle will last a long time.

Cons

Thin oil that some people don’t like. Scent doesn’t appeal to everyone.

Best Bang for the Buck
AMERICAN CREW Ultra Gliding Shave Oil, 1.7 oz.
AMERICAN CREW
Ultra Gliding Shave Oil, 1.7 oz.
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Bottom Line

Nourishes skin while softening the beard before shaving without leaving a greasy residue.

Pros

Only requires a few drops per shave to deliver maximum performance. Smooths and softens coarse beard hair or sideburns to allow for a comfortable shave. Eliminates razor burns, problems with ingrown hairs, nicks and irritated skin from shaving. Works nicely without the need to add shaving foam.

Cons

A little pricey per ounce. Some shaving foams will react badly with this oil.

Lather & Wood Shaving Co. Pre-Shave Oil, Sandalwood
Lather & Wood Shaving Co.
Pre-Shave Oil, Sandalwood
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Bottom Line

Blends seven different natural oils to deliver a pre-shave product that’s perfect for sensitive skin.

Pros

Works especially well for those with coarse beards, as it softens the facial hair to prepare for a very close shave. Has skin conditioning ingredients too, helping those who suffer from razor burn. Can shave using only the oil when you’re in a hurry, rather than adding shaving foam.

Cons

Some users don’t like the sandalwood scent. Expensive price per ounce.

Shaveology Pre Shave Oil for Men
Shaveology
Pre Shave Oil for Men
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Bottom Line

Only requires a little bit of this pre-shave oil to receive the benefits you’re seeking.

Pros

Delivers protection to the skin while shaving to help those with sensitive skin issues. Also works as a skin moisturizer. Simplifies shaving tough beards by softening the facial hair. Reasonable price per ounce. Helps eliminate the pain of ingrown hairs. Contains primarily natural ingredients.

Cons

Has a thin texture that some people will not like.

The Art of Shaving Pre-Shave Oil
The Art of Shaving
Pre-Shave Oil
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Most Eco-friendly
Bottom Line

The best option for both healthy, natural beard growth and a more pleasant shaving experience.

Pros

Offers a smoother shaving experience when used as a pre-shave oil. Prevents irritation and razor burn. Promotes healthier beard growth the next time around. Formulated with a blend of botanical ingredients and essential oils.

Cons

Can get messy if too much is applied.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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30
Models
Considered
75
Consumers
Consulted
8
Hours
Researched
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Why would you prep your skin with oil before shaving? Lots of good reasons: Prevent razor burn, moisturize skin with longer lasting results than cream or lotion alone, make shaving easier, and get a closer, perfect-looking shave. How? It helps the razor glide effortlessly across the skin. Pre-shave oils tend to be very concentrated, so you only need a few drops. While geared toward men and facial shaving, pre-shave oils can also be used to prep legs, underarms, and other areas before shaving. Look for a pump bottle for mess-free application. A nice pre-shave oil should cost no more than $20.

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