Best Shaving Cream Alternatives for Smooth Skin

Shaving is a personal ritual that ranges from a daily necessity to an indulgent self-care treatment. It all comes down to your skin type and how your hair grows. And when we get to talking about skin, sometimes traditional shaving cream just doesn’t protect your skin well enough. Many people with smooth and sensitive skin often find themselves wandering down rabbit holes of product descriptions, advice columns, and even Pinterest to try and find what works for their skin. Whatever your reasons for digging into the world of shaving cream, we’re hear to help. In this post, we’ve curated a list of shaving cream alternatives to help you find the silky smooth solution for your skin.

The Need for Natural Shaving Cream Alternatives

Traditional shaving creams are often filled with chemicals and synthetic fragrances. These can irritate different skin types, especially sensitive skin. Did you know that some people are topically allergic to coconut oil? And yet many things geared towards moisturizing contain just that. Ingredients matter when you’re finding the cream that works best for you.

The products in this list are varied, and some might not work for you— that’s ok! There are so many different types of smooth skin out there that creating a one-solution-fits-all cream just isn’t feasible. Always test a cream before doing a full shave to ensure it’s not going to cause you any redness, irritation, or other issues.

Shaving creams with natural ingredients generally offer gentle, skin-loving ingredients— bonus if they come in sustainable packaging.

DIY Shaving Cream Substitutes

If you prefer a more hands-on approach to the solutions in your home, this one’s for you: a make-it-yourself cream. Making your own shaving cream gives you full control over what goes on your skin. You can find more recipes than you can throw a shoe at online, but here’s one of our favorites:

Aloe Vera and Oil Mix

Ingredients:

1/4 cup aloe vera gel

1/4 cup carrier oil (such as coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil)

Directions:

Mix the aloe vera gel and carrier oil together in a bowl until thoroughly combined.

Apply a thin layer on the area you wish to shave.

Shave as you would with regular shaving cream.

Rinse off with warm water.

 

This combination is soothing and hydrating, excellent for those with sensitive skin. And you have options for the carrier oil if you’re allergic to coconut oil or just like one of the others better.

Oil-Based Shaving Cream Alternatives

If you’re after a more luxurious, after-spa feel, you should definitely consider oil-based shaving creams. These range from single oils to formulated blends that leave you with a smooth glide.

Pure Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer with a thick consistency, making it excellent for a luxurious shave. Just warm a small amount between your hands and rub it along your skin. Do be careful: clumped coconut oil can clog up drains, and the oil might spoil your towels. Keep a strainer over your drain, maintain your pipes, and test the oil with your towels.

Olive Oil or Almond Oil

Olive oil is a staple in many kitchens— it’s also a natural shaving lubricant. Almond oil is a lighter option that is also rich in Vitamin E. For either, apply a thin layer on moist skin to get started.

Cream-Free Shaving Options

If the oils are a bit too much for your skin or just feel a bit strange, there are other cream-free options to protect and hydrate your skin.

Hair Conditioner

Surprised? It turns out that conditioner is a great alternative! It’s designed to soften hair, which makes it easier to cut. It also provides a slick layer for the razor to glide along.

Body Lotion

If you have smooth skin, you understand the importance of having a good body lotion. But few realize you can use it to shave— so long as it isn’t too thick. Beware that thick lotion can gunk up your razor. Lotion can provide a smooth path for your razor and leave your skin delightfully hydrated.

Shaving Cream Alternatives for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin can be difficult to shop for. It demands gentle care, especially when shaving. If you can’t find a cream that works, then the top alternatives are Shea Butter and Oatmeal Bath.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is rich and packed with vitamins. It’s also silky smooth. Using shea will leave your skin smooth to the touch and help you avoid razor burns and bumps.

Oatmeal Bath

For the ultimate in smooth skin pampering, take an oatmeal bath. Just blend plain oatmeal into a fine powder, mix it with water until it’s pasty, and apply it to your skin. Not only is this incredibly soothing, it can help reduce inflammation.

Eco-Friendly Shaving Alternatives for Men and Women

When choosing a shaving aid, try not to forget the environment. Often, creams and razors come in aerosol cans or other materials that can’t be recycled. Here are a few options that are more eco-friendly.

Solid Shaving Bars

These are a great zero-waste option. They generally are made from natural ingredients like cocoa butter and essential oils and tend to work with traditional and safety razors.

Bamboo or Recycled Razors

Ok, ok, it’s not a cream alternative. But bear with us! Opting for a bamboo or recycled-material razor can complement your eco-friendly routine. Just pair with any of the natural lathers we’ve discussed.

Affordable Shaving Cream Alternatives

Saving money without sacrificing quality is always a win-win situation. Going for the luxurious finish often costs more, but there are a couple of wallet-friendly options.

Baby Oil

The oil made to care for the softest skin in the world. Baby oil is gentle, hypoallergenic, and affordable. A thin layer is all you need to protect your skin and leave it feeling silky.

Dish Soap

In a pinch, rifle under your sink. Dish soap is meant to cut through grease, giving it a surprising edge in helping your razor cut through stubble. Just be sure it’s a moisturizing formula so you don’t dry out your skin.

Keeping it Smooth

Getting away from chemical-filled traditional shaving creams doesn’t have to be complicated. There are so many alternatives available that everyone can find the perfect solution— it just takes a little trial and error. Remember: the best alternative is one that caters to your unique skin and leaves you feeling resplendent. Here’s to a heightened shaving experience!