Part of living your everyday life is maintaining your appearance and hygiene. A large aspect of doing this is maintaining your facial hair.
You can’t go around looking like a caveman all the time (well you can, but it’s not recommended). You need to shave regularly.
There are tons of implements available to help you get as great a shave as possible.
One of these implements is pre shave oil. This oil is designed to moisturize and hydrate the skin so that it raises and allows for the closest shave possible.
There are a variety of pre shave oils available on the market today, all of which possess their very own scents, consistencies, and performances. Want the best shave possible? Invest in a pre shave oil.
Top 10 Best Pre Shave Oil Comparison Table
Picture | Name | Features | Rating (1-5) | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | RazorMD Pre-Shave Oil, Natural Unscented (2 fl. Oz) - Shaving Tools & Accesorries for the Modern Man | Possesses a pleasant, but subdued and masculine scent Works to hydrate the skin | 3 | $ |
![]() | Shaving Station - Pre Shave Oil - Paraben & Sulphate Free - 50ml - Himalayan Lavender | Available for a very affordable price Possesses a smooth and non-sticky consistency Works to hydrate and replenish the skin | 3 | $ |
![]() | Pre-Shave Oil Gel With Natural Sandalwood Essential Oil – Hydrating, Anti-inflammatory Oil For Shaving Reduces Irritation For Sensitive Skin & All Skin Types by Rocky Mountain Barber | Possesses a smooth and thin consistency 100% all-natural ingredients Priced pretty reasonably considering its value | 3 | $ |
![]() | Sandalwood Pre Shave Oil - 4oz! By Handsome Rob Shave Co. | Possesses a smooth and thin consistency Made out of 100% natural ingredients Available for a reasonable price | 3 | $ |
![]() | All Natural Lubricating Pre Shave Oil with a Nourishing Blend of Safflower Oil Avocado Oil Walnut Oil Vitamin E Jojoba Oil Prevents Razor Burn No Preservatives or Harsh Irritants Made in USA | Available for a fairly reasonable price Made out of 100% all natural ingredients Possesses a non-sticky and spreadable consistency | 3.5 | $ |
![]() | Best Research Labs Pre Shave Oil, Shave Oil, Primer Organic Shave Oil-Best Pre Shave Oil, Ultra Gliding Shave Oil for Effortless Smooth Shave, Prevents Razor Burns & Cuts, 2 fl. oz. | Made out of a bevy of essential oils Scent is fairly pleasant and subdued Works to hydrate and smoothen the skin | 3.5 | $ |
![]() | Pre Shave Oil Detroit Grooming Co. | Offers a smooth and thin consistency for an effortless shave Made out of many different essential oils Helps to moisturize and hydrate the skin | 4 | $ |
![]() | Best Pre-Shave Oil, Unscented, Premium Shaving Oil for Effortless Smooth Irritation-free Shave. 2 Oz | Possesses no overwhelming aroma Does a terrific job of moisturizing the skin Made with all-natural essential oils | 4 | $ |
![]() | Award Winning 1 oz. Skin Solution 3-in-1 Shave Oil by ibody science For Sensitive Skin + Schick Xtreme 3 Razor + Book | Loaded with beneficial ingredients Rubs into the skin smoothly and consistently Works terrifically for dry skin 100% all-natural manufacturing | 4.5 | $$ |
![]() | Badger Deluxe Wet Shave Set - Includes Pre-Shave Oil, Shave Soap Pottery, Shave Bowl, Horse Hair Shave Brush, After Shave Face Tonic | Comes with everything you need for a perfect shave Made out of 100% all-natural ingredients Serves to soothe and moisturize dry skin Spreads across skin with smoothness and consistency | 5 | $$$ |
What Type of Pre Shave Oils are There??
For the most part, pre shave oils are all about the same. They’re light, but slightly viscous liquids that can be rubbed over the face to produce as smooth and hydrated of skin as possible. Pre shave oils come in all different sized bottles, some of which only contain 2 ounces of oil, and others of which contain around 10 ounces of oil.
While there are popular scents in the pre shave oil industry, each individual oil has its own particular scent. Sandalwood is one of the most popular scents, but even the scent of sandalwood changes from brand to brand of pre shave oil.
In essence, while pre shave oils share tons of similarities, there are some differences between them which separate them from each other. Realistically, the only way to truly know what you’re getting with one is to use it.
Benefits of Best Pre Shave Oil
There are quite a few benefits when it comes to pre shave oil. The most obvious benefit provided by this oil is hydrated and moisturized skin. Pre shave oil is typically made out of a collection of synthetic oils which make their way into your pores, opening them up, and essentially allowing your skin to breathe.
However, pre shave oil doesn’t just moisturize and hydrate your skin. It also helps the skin to rise, making it as easy as possible to shave. After the skin has risen, it is capable of receiving an exceedingly close shave.
Pre shave oil also acts as a sort of cologne, providing your face with a typically earthy and masculine scent. In essence, pre shave oil is a combination of shaving cream, skin moisturizer, and cologne.
Downsides of Pre Shave Oil
For the most part, there aren’t any true downsides to pre shave oil. The vast majority of its effects are appreciated by just about everyone. The only people who wouldn’t like these types of oils are the people who appreciate a rougher skin texture.
Of course, there are other downsides when it comes to pre shave oil. Some contain synthetic chemicals which can irritate the skin and cause rashes. However, typically as long as you buy an all-natural oil, you won’t have any problem with skin irritation. Just make sure there are no products contained in it which you might be allergic to.
The only other conceivable downside is the scent. While most pre shave oils smell terrific, some can be pretty overwhelming. Just make sure to buy one that’s pleasing to your senses, and you’ll be alright.
10. RazorMD Pre-Shave Oil, Natural Unscented (2 fl. Oz) – Shaving Tools & Accesorries for the Modern Man

The first pre-shave oil we’ll discuss is this one from Razor MD. Overall, this is a fairly average oil, offering fairly standard hydration and softening capabilities. It is, however, a little on the expensive side.
This oil comes in bottles of 2 ounces, giving you enough for about a month of applications depending on how much you shave. In terms of consistency, this oil is a little on the thicker side. For some this is a plus, as it provides a better glide. But others dislike thick oils because they tend to clog razors.
It’s made out of avocado oil, olive oil, and castor oil, and carries a rustic, manly scent. Designed to work its way into the pores, it lifts the hair follicles to make the shaving process as smooth as possible.
All in all, this is a good, but not great pre shaving oil. Not to mention, it’s rather expensive compared to other oils. You can, of course, purchase it if you wish, but we recommend that you find something a little less expensive.
- Possesses a pleasant, but subdued and masculine scent
- Works to hydrate the skin
- Available for a fairly high price
- Might be a little too thick for some tastes
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9. Shaving Station – Pre Shave Oil – Paraben & Sulphate Free – 50ml – Himalayan Lavender

This next pre shave oil is available for a lot lower of a price than the previous one. Lass-O shave oil is about as cheap as any pre shav oil you’re going to find, but still offers suitable functionality overall.
It’s made out of 100% natural ingredients, including, but not limited to, almond oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil. These ingredients serve to hydrate and replenish the skin, keeping it soft, and making it effortless to shave.
It possesses a smooth, non-sticky texture which goes on smooth and does nothing to irritate sensitive skin.
Overall, this pre shave oil from Lass-O is a terrific oil. It’s more designed with a focus on men, but can certainly be used by women as well. It’s one of the best budget pre shave oils on the market today.
- Available for a very affordable price
- Possesses a smooth and non-sticky consistency
- Works to hydrate and replenish the skin
- Not major cons to speak of
8. Pre-Shave Oil Gel With Natural Sandalwood Essential Oil – Hydrating, Anti-inflammatory Oil For Shaving Reduces Irritation For Sensitive Skin & All Skin Types by Rocky Mountain Barber

Up next, we’ll review this pre shave oil from Rocky Mountain Barber Company. Available for a mid-level price, it offers quite a bit in the ways of skin hydration and purity.
It’s made out of a number of essential oils, including hemp seed oil, camillia oil, and safflower oil. These assist in the rejuvenation and hydration of the skin, and help to stave off rashes from shaving irritation.
For the most part, it possesses a smooth and light consistency. This allows for a smooth, even shave at all times.
All in all, this is a terrific pre shave oil for an affordable price. With a refreshing, rustic sandalwood scent, it evokes masculinity at every turn. It’s a great product for men who suffer from sensitive skin.
- Possesses a smooth and thin consistency
- 100% all-natural ingredients
- Priced pretty reasonably considering its value
- No major cons to speak of
7. Sandalwood Pre Shave Oil – 4oz! By Handsome Rob Shave Co.

Another reasonably priced, but effective pre shave oil is this one from Handsome Rob Shave Company. Available for a mid-level price, it comes in 4-ounce bottles, and offers much in the way of skin replenishment and hydration.
This pre shave oil is packed with Vitamin E, grape seed oil, and a bevy of other essential oils, helping it to provide nutrition to the skin. All of the ingredients used in this oil are natural.
It possesses a fairly smooth and thin consistency, spreading across the skin evenly, and allowing razors to glide directly over the top of it.
All in all, this pre shave oil from Handsome Rob is a solid product. It’s not the top pre shave oil on the market, but will certainly do its job. With a pleasant and manly sandalwood aroma, it also offers a sort of aromatherapy.
- Possesses a smooth and thin consistency
- Made out of 100% natural ingredients
- Available for a reasonable price
- No major cons to speak of
6. All Natural Lubricating Pre Shave Oil with a Nourishing Blend of Safflower Oil Avocado Oil Walnut Oil Vitamin E Jojoba Oil Prevents Razor Burn No Preservatives or Harsh Irritants Made in USA

The next pre shave oil we’ll review is this one from Shaveology. Available for a mid-level price, it’s not only easy to spread on, but beneficial to the look and the health of your skin as well.
This 100% all-natural pre shave oil is packed with beneficial ingredients such as Vitamin E, jojoba oil, walnut oil, avocado oil, and more. These ingredients work together to concoct a substance that both hydrates and replenishes the skin.
For the most part, this oil possesses a smooth and spreadable consistency. It’s rather thin, allowing razors to seemingly glide over the top of it. Non-sticky, it leaves no residue behind.
Overall, this pre shave oil from Shaveology is a solid product. It possesses a pleasant, but subdued scent overall, adding a little something without overpowering anything else. Available for a reasonable price, it’s certainly worth a go.
- Available for a fairly reasonable price
- Made out of 100% all natural ingredients
- Possesses a non-sticky and spreadable consistency
- No major cons to speak of
5. Best Research Labs Pre Shave Oil, Shave Oil, Primer Organic Shave Oil-Best Pre Shave Oil, Ultra Gliding Shave Oil for Effortless Smooth Shave, Prevents Razor Burns & Cuts, 2 fl. oz.

He next pre shave oil we’ll review is this one from Best Research Labs. This oil is available for a mid-level price, and offers quite a bit in the ways of skin hydration and smoothness.
It’s made out of natural oils such as black pepper oil, juniper berry oil, and a variety of other essential oils. Together, these oils form a concoction that penetrates the pores and raises the skin for easy shaving.
In terms of consistency, it’s a little thicker than some oils. This is preferred by some because it makes for an incredibly smooth shave. However, there are also cases where razors get clogged by thick oils.
All in all, this is a good, but not great pre shave oil. It offers standard benefits overall, and carries a fairly neutral aroma. Honestly, for the price, there are better oils available. However, if you wish, there’s no reason not to buy this oil.
- Made out of a bevy of essential oils
- Scent is fairly pleasant and subdued
- Works to hydrate and smoothen the skin
- Consistency is thicker than most
4. Pre Shave Oil Detroit Grooming Co.
Next up on our list of best pre shave oils is this one from Detroit Grooming Co. This is a solid, but fairly expensive oil that offers quite a bit in the ways of skin hydration and replenishment.
It’s made out of a number of natural ingredients, including jojoba oil, black pepper oil, and a variety of others. Together, this concoction of oils creates a substance that opens the pores and raises the skin so that it can be easily shaved.
Consistency-wise, this is a fairly smooth and thin substance. This makes for a very easy shave in which the razor essentially glides across the skin. Coming in bottles of 2 ounces, it’s good for about a month of consistent shaving.
All in all, this Detroit Grooming Co. pre shave oil is a great, but expensive product. It provides a nice scent and quite a few benefits, but might be a little too expensive for some.
- Offers a smooth and thin consistency for an effortless shave
- Made out of many different essential oils
- Helps to moisturize and hydrate the skin
- On the expensive side compared to other pre shave oils
3. Best Pre-Shave Oil, Unscented, Premium Shaving Oil for Effortless Smooth Irritation-free Shave. 2 Oz

The next pre shave oil we’ll review is this one from Lather & Wood Shaving Co. Made out of 7 essential oils, including olive oil, grapeseed oil, and wheatgerm oil, it does a terrific job of moisturizing and soothing the face before a shave.
This oil is available for a mid-level price, and offers quite a bit in the way of functionality. It comes in just 2 ounce bottles, giving you enough for about a continuous month of use.
After rubbing it into your beard, it takes around 30 seconds to settle. Once it has settled, it enables you to apply shaving cream or soap for a smooth and satisfying shave. It possesses an exceptionally slick texture to ensure a smooth glide across the skin.
All in all, this pre shave oil from Lather & Wood is a very nice oil. Not only does it possesses natural ingredients, but it does a great job of penetrating the pores as well. With no scent, it does nothing to overwhelm your senses.
- Possesses no overwhelming aroma
- Does a terrific job of moisturizing the skin
- Made with all-natural essential oils
- Just a little expensive
2. Award Winning 1 oz. Skin Solution 3-in-1 Shave Oil by ibody science For Sensitive Skin + Schick Xtreme 3 Razor + Book

This next pre shave oil is the most expensive solo oil on our list, but provides enough in the ways of moisturization and replenishment to make it worth its price. Coming from ibody science, it comes in bottles of 1 ounces.
It’s loaded with beneficial ingredients, from coconut oil, to avocado oil, to Vitamin A, to Vitamin E, and many more. These work together to make the skin as smooth and healthy as nutritionally possible.
This product works terrifically for those with sensitive skin, helping to stave off rashes of all sorts.
All in all, this is a terrific, but expensive pre shave oil. It’s, admittedly, the healthiest option out there, but is a little too expensive to rank at #1. However, if you’ve got very sensitive skin, it’s a great option.
- Loaded with beneficial ingredients
- Rubs into the skin smoothly and consistently
- Works terrifically for dry skin
- 100% all-natural manufacturing
- Very expensive
1. Badger Deluxe Wet Shave Set – Includes Pre-Shave Oil, Shave Soap Pottery, Shave Bowl, Horse Hair Shave Brush, After Shave Face Tonic
The last, and best pre-shave oil we’ll review is the Badger Deluxe Wet Shave Set.
Unlike the other oils on our list, this one comes as part of a set which includes soap, a facial hair brush, a shaving bowl, and more. It’s expensive, but is well worth its price.
This oil is made out of 100% all-natural ingredients, most of which are essential oils. These essential oils do a terrific job of penetrating skin pores so that skin can be moisturized, soothed, and replenished.
The rest of the set ensures that your skin, regardless of how dry it is, is prepared for a close and consistent shave.
Overall, it doesn’t get any better than this set. If you’re looking for more than just a pre shave oil, this is definitely the set you should turn to. Each and every product on this set will contribute to a shave that is as close to flawless as possible.
- Comes with everything you need for a perfect shave
- Made out of 100% all-natural ingredients
- Serves to soothe and moisturize dry skin
- Spreads across skin with smoothness and consistency
- Definitely on the expensive side
Editor’s Choice of Best Pre-Shave Oil
In our estimation, the top pre shave oil on the market today exists as part of the Badger Deluxe Wet Shave Set. This set includes everything from a pre shave oil, to a face soap, to a shave brush, and more. All of these products together give you everything you need to get a perfect shave.
They’re a little on the expensive side, but provide you with the functionality, durability, and moisturization capabilities that you need and deserve. If you’re looking to turn your face into a work of art, the Badger Deluxe Wet Shave Set will help you do so.
Grooming is a vital process if you care about the way you look, but these type of products make for great gifts for men. For more great gift ideas have a look at this if you want to tone up your abs or help someone else tone theirs!
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