How to Choose (And Use) a Pre-Shave Oil?

What’s all the hype about pre-shave oil? Can it really help you take your shave to the next level?

We thought you might ask – and the answer is yes. Pre-shave oil can be a game-changer when it comes to achieving the closest shave and improving the health of your skin. 

When you start to use a pre-shave oil, you start feeling like your most confident self. So what are you waiting for?

Below, you’ll learn how to choose and use a pre-shave oil to achieve the shave your handsome self deserves.

What is Pre-Shave Oil?

The use of oil during men’s shaving rituals has been around for centuries. However, shaving oils were originally applied after shaving to soothe and perfume the skin. It wasn’t until the 1990’s that men started using oil before using their razor to really soak up the benefits. 

As the name suggests, pre-shave oil is an oil you can apply to the skin prior to shaving. It adds some slip and a layer of protection between the blade and your skin so you can get the closest shave without lots of redness, nicks or bumps. 

Skin protection isn’t the only benefit of adding pre-shave oil to your shaving routine. Using a pre-shave oil also:

• Adds moisture & reduces dryness
• Softens hair follicles 
• Aids in achieving a closer shave

These benefits can be particularly helpful when shaving a sensitive area, such as the scalp. Did you know that the skin on your head is more sensitive than your face? 

By choosing a pre-shave oil that complements your personal needs, you’ll be one step closer to achieving your best shave yet. 

How to Choose Pre-Shave Oil

Ultimately, the best pre-shave oil for you depends on your skin type, the razor you use and other factors specific to your routine. However, there are some tips and tricks that can help you decide which will work best for you.

Skin Type

If your skin is naturally oily or prone to ingrown hairs, consider using a pre-shave oil with a lighter consistency. The oils your skin produces on its own will act as a natural barrier and only need a little boost from a pre-shave oil.

If your skin is naturally dry or easily irritated, look for a pre-shave oil with a thicker consistency. A heavier oil will infuse the skin with vitamins and moisture it lacks, ultimately resulting in a great shave. 

Hair Type

Is your hair pretty thick? Does it tend to lack moisture? If so, you’ll need a pre-shave oil that has a thick consistency. Thick hair that lacks moisture will absorb any oil applied and leave nothing to protect the skin. 

Alternatively, if your hair is thin and produces enough oil on its own, you’ll want to stick to a lightweight pre-shave oil to minimize the grease.

Ingredients

Last but not least, what is your pre-shave oil made out of?

This is arguably the most important aspect when it comes to choosing a pre-shave oil. The ingredients in your oil will ultimately determine how well the oil works.

Among a product’s ingredients, you’ll find several types of oils included for their different properties:

• Carrier oils
• Essential oils
• Vitamin oils

Carrier oils will typically determine viscosity, essential oils soothe irritation and vitamin oils enhance skin health. The most important thing to note is that the best products will have all-natural, organic ingredients to enhance benefits transferred to the skin.

When shopping for a pre-shave oil, beware of harsh ingredients. Some products contain harsh chemicals or synthetic additives that can hurt your skin more than they’ll help. 

Specific ingredients are:

• Parabens
• Sulfates
• Preservatives
• Artificial fragrances

If you can steer clear of these bad boys, you’ll be one step closer to looking and feeling your best!

How to Use Pre-Shave Oil

We know you’re excited to get your hands on some pre-shave oil. But first, you should know how to use it.

Step 1: Check Your Skin

It’s no secret that you’ll need to assess the state of your skin before shaving. The area you plan to shave should be damp – not dripping wet.  

The best time to apply your pre-shave oil is after you’ve gotten out of the shower or rinsed off an exfoliating wash. If there’s too much water present, you’ll dilute the oil and minimize its benefits.

Step 2: Apply the Oil

Add a few drops of your favorite pre-shave oil to one of your hands – anywhere between 4 to 8 drops should do, depending on the size of the area you’re shaving. 

Step 3: Rub-A-Dub-Dub

Rub your hands together to warm up the oil and massage it into your face. No need to over do it – the oil knows how to penetrate the skin on its own, so using a gentle hand is encouraged.

However, we do recommend massaging the skin with oil for at least 20-30 seconds. Once your skin feels like it’s starting to dry out again, stop massaging and give the oil another 30 seconds to breathe.

Pro-tip: Now is a great time to wash your hands!

Step 4: Lather & Shave

You did it! Now you can continue with the rest of your shave routine. Apply your shaving cleanser or cream on top of the oil and lather. Shave like you normally do and enjoy the luxurious sensation of gliding your razor blade over a slick surface.

Step 5: Rinse

Your pre-shave oil will rinse right off along with your shaving cream but the benefits associated with applying the oil will remain. Post-shave moisturization, via post-shave oil and/or aftershave, is strongly encouraged for the best looking skin! 

For a visual of this step-by-step process, enjoy the short video linked to the image below.

Boost Your Confidence Today!

After learning the benefits, there’s no excuse for skipping pre-shave oil application as an integral step of your shaving routine – especially if you have sensitive skin like the rest of us. 

If you’re looking for the best, then going with Groomie’s Natural Pre-Shave oil is a no-brainer. Infused with natural oils and free of harsh ingredients, this pre-shave oil will have you smoother than a baby’s bottom in no time!

Visit Groomie Club and invest in the best – your skin will thank you!