How to Use Pre-Shave Oil for a Smoother Shave
Most men think of a shave as razor, foam, done. But barbers have known for a long time that a good shave starts before the razor touches your skin. Pre-shave oil is the simplest way to add that preparation step. This guide explains what pre-shave oil does, how to use it with foam, cream or soap, and a few habits that make every shave more comfortable.
What is pre-shave oil?
Pre-shave oil is a light oil you apply to the beard area before your usual shaving product. It sits between your skin and the lather and does three useful jobs:
- Helps soften facial hair so it cuts more easily.
- Conditions the skin before the razor passes over it.
- Helps improve razor glide for a smoother shaving experience.
It does not replace shaving foam or cream. It goes underneath it.
What is in a good pre-shave oil?
Look for a base oil that spreads easily and a few skin-friendly botanicals. Mountleaf Pre-Shave Oil is a botanical blend inspired by traditional Ayurvedic ingredients: saffron (kesar), sandalwood (chandan), manjistha and mulethi (licorice) in coconut oil. Sandalwood also gives it a classic, understated fragrance.
How to use pre-shave oil: step by step
- Cleanse first. Wash your face to remove oil and dirt. A face wash such as Prakleen Neem Face Wash works well.
- Leave the skin damp. Damp skin and warm water help soften hair. Shaving after a warm shower is ideal.
- Apply a few drops of pre-shave oil. Spread evenly over your beard and neck area, working it into the hair.
- Wait about a minute. Give the oil time to settle into the beard.
- Apply your shaving foam, cream or soap over the oil as usual.
- Shave with the grain first. Use light strokes and rinse the blade often.
- Rinse with cool water and pat dry.
Habits for a more comfortable shave
- Use a sharp blade. A dull blade drags. Change blades regularly.
- Do not press hard. Let the razor do the work.
- Shave with the grain on the first pass. Go across or against the grain only if your skin is comfortable with it.
- Rinse the razor after every few strokes. A clogged blade cuts unevenly.
- Keep the post-shave routine simple. Cool water, a gentle pat dry and a moisturiser.
Pre-shave oil for different shaving styles
Cartridge razors
Pre-shave oil helps the blades glide more smoothly, especially on a thicker beard.
Safety razors and straight razors
These single blades benefit the most from preparation. Pre-shave oil plus a well-lathered cream is the classic barbershop combination.
Electric trimmers and shavers
Many people use pre-shave oil with wet electric shavers. For dry electric shaving, follow your device's instructions.
A simple men's grooming routine
- Cleanse: Prakleen Neem Face Wash, morning and night.
- Before shaving: Pre-Shave Oil.
- Hair: Sprouting Shampoo on wash days.
Our Men's Shave Kit bundles the face wash and pre-shave oil together.
Frequently asked questions
How much pre-shave oil should I use?
A few drops is enough for the whole beard and neck area. Too much can make lather slide off.
Can I use pre-shave oil without shaving cream?
Pre-shave oil is designed to go under your usual shaving foam, cream or soap.
Can I use pre-shave oil on my beard as a beard oil?
It is made as a shaving preparation step. Use it as directed on the pack.
This article is for general information. Always follow the directions on your product label and do a patch test before first use.
