The 10 Best Shaving Creams, Tested by Real People

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsOthers We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Others We Tried

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Kristin Kempa

People / Kristin Kempa

When you’re in a rush and need to shave, it’s tempting to just grab a razor and have at it — but delicate areas like your underarms and bikini line really benefit from applying a shaving cream or gel first. Bonus: less irritation and fewer ingrown hairs.According toRosmy Barrios, MD, head of the regenerative aesthetics and anti-aging department at IM Clinic, you don’t want to reach for justanyshaving cream. The best shaving creams are ones formulated for your skin type with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and coconut oil for soothing, moisturizing, and lubricating the skin to prevent cuts and razor burn.To find the best shaving creams, we grabbedour favorite razorsand tried out 20 shave creams, gels, and oils. We evaluated the formulas based on their feel and consistency, how easy they were to apply, whether or not they could achieve a close shave, and how much (if any) skin irritation occurred.From buzz-worthy brands likeFlamingoto tried-and-true shower staples likeGillette, here are our top picks.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALESkintimate Shave Gel at Amazon$12$10Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Oui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk at Amazon$114Jump to ReviewBest Hydrating:Truly Coco Cloud After Shave Moisturizer at Target$33Jump to ReviewBest for Close Shave:Hanni Shave Pillow at Amazon$24Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Skin:Eos Sensitive Skin Shave Cream at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Natural:Lather Almond Shave Crème at Amazon$24Jump to ReviewBest Oil:Olio E Osso Lisica Shave Oil at Amazon$30Jump to ReviewBest for Bikini Line:Fur Shave Cream at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewBest Gel:Gillette Cleanser + Shave Gel at AmazonJump to Review

When you’re in a rush and need to shave, it’s tempting to just grab a razor and have at it — but delicate areas like your underarms and bikini line really benefit from applying a shaving cream or gel first. Bonus: less irritation and fewer ingrown hairs.

According toRosmy Barrios, MD, head of the regenerative aesthetics and anti-aging department at IM Clinic, you don’t want to reach for justanyshaving cream. The best shaving creams are ones formulated for your skin type with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and coconut oil for soothing, moisturizing, and lubricating the skin to prevent cuts and razor burn.

To find the best shaving creams, we grabbedour favorite razorsand tried out 20 shave creams, gels, and oils. We evaluated the formulas based on their feel and consistency, how easy they were to apply, whether or not they could achieve a close shave, and how much (if any) skin irritation occurred.

From buzz-worthy brands likeFlamingoto tried-and-true shower staples likeGillette, here are our top picks.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALESkintimate Shave Gel at Amazon$12$10Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Oui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk at Amazon$114Jump to ReviewBest Hydrating:Truly Coco Cloud After Shave Moisturizer at Target$33Jump to ReviewBest for Close Shave:Hanni Shave Pillow at Amazon$24Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Skin:Eos Sensitive Skin Shave Cream at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Natural:Lather Almond Shave Crème at Amazon$24Jump to ReviewBest Oil:Olio E Osso Lisica Shave Oil at Amazon$30Jump to ReviewBest for Bikini Line:Fur Shave Cream at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewBest Gel:Gillette Cleanser + Shave Gel at AmazonJump to Review

Best Overall:Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALESkintimate Shave Gel at Amazon$12$10Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Oui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk at Amazon$114Jump to ReviewBest Hydrating:Truly Coco Cloud After Shave Moisturizer at Target$33Jump to ReviewBest for Close Shave:Hanni Shave Pillow at Amazon$24Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Skin:Eos Sensitive Skin Shave Cream at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Natural:Lather Almond Shave Crème at Amazon$24Jump to ReviewBest Oil:Olio E Osso Lisica Shave Oil at Amazon$30Jump to ReviewBest for Bikini Line:Fur Shave Cream at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewBest Gel:Gillette Cleanser + Shave Gel at AmazonJump to Review

Best Overall:Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel at Amazon$18Jump to Review

Best Overall:Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel at Amazon$18

Best Overall:

Best Budget:SALESkintimate Shave Gel at Amazon$12$10Jump to Review

Best Budget:SALESkintimate Shave Gel at Amazon$12$10

Best Budget:

SALE

Best Investment:Oui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk at Amazon$114Jump to Review

Best Investment:Oui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk at Amazon$114

Best Investment:

Best Hydrating:Truly Coco Cloud After Shave Moisturizer at Target$33Jump to Review

Best Hydrating:Truly Coco Cloud After Shave Moisturizer at Target$33

Best Hydrating:

Best for Close Shave:Hanni Shave Pillow at Amazon$24Jump to Review

Best for Close Shave:Hanni Shave Pillow at Amazon$24

Best for Close Shave:

Best for Sensitive Skin:Eos Sensitive Skin Shave Cream at Amazon$10Jump to Review

Best for Sensitive Skin:Eos Sensitive Skin Shave Cream at Amazon$10

Best for Sensitive Skin:

Best Natural:Lather Almond Shave Crème at Amazon$24Jump to Review

Best Natural:Lather Almond Shave Crème at Amazon$24

Best Natural:

Best Oil:Olio E Osso Lisica Shave Oil at Amazon$30Jump to Review

Best Oil:Olio E Osso Lisica Shave Oil at Amazon$30

Best Oil:

Best for Bikini Line:Fur Shave Cream at Amazon$32Jump to Review

Best for Bikini Line:Fur Shave Cream at Amazon$32

Best for Bikini Line:

Best Gel:Gillette Cleanser + Shave Gel at AmazonJump to Review

Best Gel:Gillette Cleanser + Shave Gel at Amazon

Best Gel:

Best OverallFlamingo Foaming Shave GelPHOTO: Flamingo$18 at Amazon$6 at TargetView on Shopflamingo.comStar QualitiesWonderfully creamy texture that’s easily spreadableProvides an even, close shave with no irritationBudget-friendly priceRed FlagsThick consistency can cause the razor to clog upWhat makes this shaving cream stand out most is its super creamy texture. While it comes out thick, it is easily spreadable for great coverage. Plus, a little goes a long way — seriously, just a squirt will do just fine, or else you’ll clog your razor as you shave. It comes out as gel but foams quickly as you spread it on your skin, helping it to stay in place. This allows for a smooth path for your razor and an even shave.The only downside to that thick and rich consistency is you’ll have to rinse your razor more often. If you have sensitive skin, this is the perfect shave cream. We loved how soft our legs felt (no irritation here!), and the results lasted longer because the gel allowed such a close shave.Formula:Gel |Size:6.7 oz. |Star ingredients:Aloe, bisabolol, conditioning emollientsPHOTO: People / Shannon McHughPHOTO: People / Shannon McHughPHOTO: People / Shannon McHughExperts Say“It is important to choose a product that is formulated for your skin type. For example, if you have sensitive skin, look for a shave cream that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction or other skin irritation.”—Rosmy Barrios, MD

Best OverallFlamingo Foaming Shave GelPHOTO: Flamingo$18 at Amazon$6 at TargetView on Shopflamingo.com

Best OverallFlamingo Foaming Shave Gel

Best Overall

Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel

PHOTO: Flamingo

$18 at Amazon$6 at TargetView on Shopflamingo.com

Star QualitiesWonderfully creamy texture that’s easily spreadableProvides an even, close shave with no irritationBudget-friendly priceRed FlagsThick consistency can cause the razor to clog up

Star QualitiesWonderfully creamy texture that’s easily spreadableProvides an even, close shave with no irritationBudget-friendly price

Wonderfully creamy texture that’s easily spreadable

Provides an even, close shave with no irritation

Budget-friendly price

Red FlagsThick consistency can cause the razor to clog up

Thick consistency can cause the razor to clog up

What makes this shaving cream stand out most is its super creamy texture. While it comes out thick, it is easily spreadable for great coverage. Plus, a little goes a long way — seriously, just a squirt will do just fine, or else you’ll clog your razor as you shave. It comes out as gel but foams quickly as you spread it on your skin, helping it to stay in place. This allows for a smooth path for your razor and an even shave.

The only downside to that thick and rich consistency is you’ll have to rinse your razor more often. If you have sensitive skin, this is the perfect shave cream. We loved how soft our legs felt (no irritation here!), and the results lasted longer because the gel allowed such a close shave.

Formula:Gel |Size:6.7 oz. |Star ingredients:Aloe, bisabolol, conditioning emollients

PHOTO: People / Shannon McHughPHOTO: People / Shannon McHughPHOTO: People / Shannon McHugh

Experts Say“It is important to choose a product that is formulated for your skin type. For example, if you have sensitive skin, look for a shave cream that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction or other skin irritation.”—Rosmy Barrios, MD

Experts Say

“It is important to choose a product that is formulated for your skin type. For example, if you have sensitive skin, look for a shave cream that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction or other skin irritation.”—Rosmy Barrios, MD

Best BudgetSkintimate Shave GelPHOTO: Target$12$10 at Amazon$9 at Walmart$4 at Walgreens

Best BudgetSkintimate Shave Gel

Best Budget

Skintimate Shave Gel

PHOTO: Target

$12$10 at Amazon$9 at Walmart$4 at Walgreens

Star QualitiesSoft foam spreads wellIncredible value, especially since a little goes a long wayStays in place without sliding down your skinRed FlagsConsistency might be too thick for someCaused some ingrown hairs, but fewer than other products we tested

Star QualitiesSoft foam spreads wellIncredible value, especially since a little goes a long wayStays in place without sliding down your skin

Soft foam spreads well

Incredible value, especially since a little goes a long way

Stays in place without sliding down your skin

Red FlagsConsistency might be too thick for someCaused some ingrown hairs, but fewer than other products we tested

Consistency might be too thick for some

Caused some ingrown hairs, but fewer than other products we tested

Formula:Foaming gel |Size:7 oz. |Star ingredients:Lanolin and vitamin E

People / Taylor Calta

Best InvestmentOui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-MilkPHOTO: Oui The People$114 at AmazonStar QualitiesClose shave great for underarms and bikini linesVery moisturizing, resulting in soft, smooth skinUnique gel-to-milk textureRed FlagsDoesn’t create that satisfying latherOui The People is not your ordinary shaving foam or gel. It’s billed as a gel-to-milk consistency, so it feels more like a serum or a gel-based moisturizer instead of your typical foaming cream or gel. Spread it on the area you want to shave, and the gel becomes opaque, but it doesn’t lather like a regular foam or cream. Despite not having a thick lather, this formula still feels luxurious and results in a smooth shave for legs, underarms, and bikini lines.Tested Tip!This product is a better fit for one-blade razors rather than multiple blades due to the thinner consistency.Formula:Gel |Size:5 oz. |Star ingredients:Marula oil, dandelion root extract, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbatePHOTO: People / Avery StonePHOTO: People / Avery Stone

Best InvestmentOui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-MilkPHOTO: Oui The People$114 at Amazon

Best InvestmentOui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk

Best Investment

Oui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk

PHOTO: Oui The People

$114 at Amazon

Star QualitiesClose shave great for underarms and bikini linesVery moisturizing, resulting in soft, smooth skinUnique gel-to-milk textureRed FlagsDoesn’t create that satisfying lather

Star QualitiesClose shave great for underarms and bikini linesVery moisturizing, resulting in soft, smooth skinUnique gel-to-milk texture

Close shave great for underarms and bikini lines

Very moisturizing, resulting in soft, smooth skin

Unique gel-to-milk texture

Red FlagsDoesn’t create that satisfying lather

Doesn’t create that satisfying lather

Oui The People is not your ordinary shaving foam or gel. It’s billed as a gel-to-milk consistency, so it feels more like a serum or a gel-based moisturizer instead of your typical foaming cream or gel. Spread it on the area you want to shave, and the gel becomes opaque, but it doesn’t lather like a regular foam or cream. Despite not having a thick lather, this formula still feels luxurious and results in a smooth shave for legs, underarms, and bikini lines.

Tested Tip!This product is a better fit for one-blade razors rather than multiple blades due to the thinner consistency.

Tested Tip!

This product is a better fit for one-blade razors rather than multiple blades due to the thinner consistency.

Formula:Gel |Size:5 oz. |Star ingredients:Marula oil, dandelion root extract, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate

PHOTO: People / Avery StonePHOTO: People / Avery Stone

Best HydratingTruly Coco Cloud After Shave MoisturizerPHOTO: Ulta$33 at Target$33 at UltaView on Trulybeauty.comStar QualitiesOffers a super close shave in just two passesAdded ingredients help keep skin hydrated and moisturizedSmells amazingRed FlagsComes out pretty thickShaving frequently robs your skin of moisture, so using a formula that restores that moisture is key. The Truly Coco Cloud aftershave smells amazing, and it took just two passes with the razor to achieve smooth skin. This formula comes out thick, though, so it’s best to create a lather in your hands before applying it across the shaving area. It took an extra pass or two with the razor on spots where we applied it too thick, but post-shave, we were left with smooth, hydrated, and sweet-smelling skin.Formula:Cream |Size:2 oz. |Star ingredients: Shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, cocoa butterPHOTO: People / Nicole AndersonPHOTO: People / Nicole Anderson

Best HydratingTruly Coco Cloud After Shave MoisturizerPHOTO: Ulta$33 at Target$33 at UltaView on Trulybeauty.com

Best HydratingTruly Coco Cloud After Shave Moisturizer

Best Hydrating

Truly Coco Cloud After Shave Moisturizer

PHOTO: Ulta

$33 at Target$33 at UltaView on Trulybeauty.com

Star QualitiesOffers a super close shave in just two passesAdded ingredients help keep skin hydrated and moisturizedSmells amazingRed FlagsComes out pretty thick

Star QualitiesOffers a super close shave in just two passesAdded ingredients help keep skin hydrated and moisturizedSmells amazing

Offers a super close shave in just two passes

Added ingredients help keep skin hydrated and moisturized

Smells amazing

Red FlagsComes out pretty thick

Comes out pretty thick

Shaving frequently robs your skin of moisture, so using a formula that restores that moisture is key. The Truly Coco Cloud aftershave smells amazing, and it took just two passes with the razor to achieve smooth skin. This formula comes out thick, though, so it’s best to create a lather in your hands before applying it across the shaving area. It took an extra pass or two with the razor on spots where we applied it too thick, but post-shave, we were left with smooth, hydrated, and sweet-smelling skin.

Formula:Cream |Size:2 oz. |Star ingredients: Shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, cocoa butter

PHOTO: People / Nicole AndersonPHOTO: People / Nicole Anderson

Best for Close ShaveHanni Shave PillowPHOTO: Sephora$24 at Amazon$24 at SephoraView on Heyhanni.comStar QualitiesMess-free applicationGood for wet or dry shave (although works better for wet)Lovely light scentRed FlagsNot a lather formulaIf you’ve had trouble getting a close shave or dealt with painful ingrown hairs in the past, the Hanni Shave Pillow Moisturizing body gel may be exactly what you need. This body gel has a thin consistency yet provides a close shave without any irritation. It actually felt more like a cleanser than a shaving cream, so it’s a great upgrade for those who usually reach for the bar of soap when shaving. You apply it like you would deodorant, which makes for an easy, mess-free application. You’re able to use it on wet or dry skin, but we found it glided on even better when the skin was wet.Formula:Gel stick |Size:3 oz. |Star ingredients:Adaptogenic mushrooms, cactus water, glycerinPHOTO: People / Madison San MiguelPHOTO: People / Madison San MiguelPHOTO: People / Madison San Miguel

Best for Close ShaveHanni Shave PillowPHOTO: Sephora$24 at Amazon$24 at SephoraView on Heyhanni.com

Best for Close ShaveHanni Shave Pillow

Best for Close Shave

Hanni Shave Pillow

PHOTO: Sephora

$24 at Amazon$24 at SephoraView on Heyhanni.com

Star QualitiesMess-free applicationGood for wet or dry shave (although works better for wet)Lovely light scentRed FlagsNot a lather formula

Star QualitiesMess-free applicationGood for wet or dry shave (although works better for wet)Lovely light scent

Mess-free application

Good for wet or dry shave (although works better for wet)

Lovely light scent

Red FlagsNot a lather formula

Not a lather formula

If you’ve had trouble getting a close shave or dealt with painful ingrown hairs in the past, the Hanni Shave Pillow Moisturizing body gel may be exactly what you need. This body gel has a thin consistency yet provides a close shave without any irritation. It actually felt more like a cleanser than a shaving cream, so it’s a great upgrade for those who usually reach for the bar of soap when shaving. You apply it like you would deodorant, which makes for an easy, mess-free application. You’re able to use it on wet or dry skin, but we found it glided on even better when the skin was wet.

Formula:Gel stick |Size:3 oz. |Star ingredients:Adaptogenic mushrooms, cactus water, glycerin

PHOTO: People / Madison San MiguelPHOTO: People / Madison San MiguelPHOTO: People / Madison San Miguel

Best for Sensitive SkinEos Sensitive Skin Shave CreamPHOTO: Amazon$10 at Amazon$5 at Target$5 at WalmartStar QualitiesProvides a close shave without irritationNo need to moisturize after — it leaves skin feeling soft and hydratedCan dispense just the right amount for your needsRed FlagsTranslucent formula made it hard to tell where we had already shavedWe loved the thick, lotion-like consistency of this Eos shaving cream. Formulated with sensitive skin types in mind, it contains shea butter — a powerhouse ingredient for dry skin that left our tester’s legs feeling super moisturized after every shave. True to its name, it’s a cream, not a foam, so it doesn’t lather (though it does distribute well across the skin).The creamy consistency made it clear how much product we were using when we dispensed it, which is not something you can usually say for foaming shave creams and gels. After shaving, our skin felt so hydrated and soft, we were able to skip an after-shave moisturizer.Formula:Cream |Size:7 oz. |Star ingredients:Shea oil, shea butter, colloidal oatmeal

Best for Sensitive SkinEos Sensitive Skin Shave CreamPHOTO: Amazon$10 at Amazon$5 at Target$5 at Walmart

Best for Sensitive SkinEos Sensitive Skin Shave Cream

Best for Sensitive Skin

Eos Sensitive Skin Shave Cream

PHOTO: Amazon

$10 at Amazon$5 at Target$5 at Walmart

Star QualitiesProvides a close shave without irritationNo need to moisturize after — it leaves skin feeling soft and hydratedCan dispense just the right amount for your needsRed FlagsTranslucent formula made it hard to tell where we had already shaved

Star QualitiesProvides a close shave without irritationNo need to moisturize after — it leaves skin feeling soft and hydratedCan dispense just the right amount for your needs

Provides a close shave without irritation

No need to moisturize after — it leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated

Can dispense just the right amount for your needs

Red FlagsTranslucent formula made it hard to tell where we had already shaved

Translucent formula made it hard to tell where we had already shaved

We loved the thick, lotion-like consistency of this Eos shaving cream. Formulated with sensitive skin types in mind, it contains shea butter — a powerhouse ingredient for dry skin that left our tester’s legs feeling super moisturized after every shave. True to its name, it’s a cream, not a foam, so it doesn’t lather (though it does distribute well across the skin).

The creamy consistency made it clear how much product we were using when we dispensed it, which is not something you can usually say for foaming shave creams and gels. After shaving, our skin felt so hydrated and soft, we were able to skip an after-shave moisturizer.

Formula:Cream |Size:7 oz. |Star ingredients:Shea oil, shea butter, colloidal oatmeal

Best NaturalLather Almond Shave CrèmePHOTO: Amazon$24 at AmazonView on Lather.comView on Lovelyskin.comStar QualitiesEasily spreads onto the skinWhipped, creamy textureAlmond oil helps moisturize skinRed FlagsDespite the name, it doesn’t actually latherIf you like more coverage with your shave cream, you’ll love this thick whipped cream from Lather. Despite the name, it doesn’t really lather, though it does spread evenly across the skin. We liked that it was thick enough of an application so that we could see the areas already shaved, which saved time because we didn’t keep swiping the same spot with the razor.It feels more like whipped body cream than it does traditional shaving foam. We loved how our skin felt soft and supple after a shave, thanks to the infusion of almond oil, which has terrific moisturizing benefits. Again, don’t let the name fool you with its consistency, but if you’re looking for a shaving cream with nourishing natural ingredients, this one fits the bill.Formula:Cream |Size:4 oz. |Star ingredients:Almond oil, coconut oil, glycerinPHOTO: People / Michelle ParentePHOTO: People / Michelle Parente

Best NaturalLather Almond Shave CrèmePHOTO: Amazon$24 at AmazonView on Lather.comView on Lovelyskin.com

Best NaturalLather Almond Shave Crème

Best Natural

Lather Almond Shave Crème

$24 at AmazonView on Lather.comView on Lovelyskin.com

Star QualitiesEasily spreads onto the skinWhipped, creamy textureAlmond oil helps moisturize skinRed FlagsDespite the name, it doesn’t actually lather

Star QualitiesEasily spreads onto the skinWhipped, creamy textureAlmond oil helps moisturize skin

Easily spreads onto the skin

Whipped, creamy texture

Almond oil helps moisturize skin

Red FlagsDespite the name, it doesn’t actually lather

Despite the name, it doesn’t actually lather

If you like more coverage with your shave cream, you’ll love this thick whipped cream from Lather. Despite the name, it doesn’t really lather, though it does spread evenly across the skin. We liked that it was thick enough of an application so that we could see the areas already shaved, which saved time because we didn’t keep swiping the same spot with the razor.

It feels more like whipped body cream than it does traditional shaving foam. We loved how our skin felt soft and supple after a shave, thanks to the infusion of almond oil, which has terrific moisturizing benefits. Again, don’t let the name fool you with its consistency, but if you’re looking for a shaving cream with nourishing natural ingredients, this one fits the bill.

Formula:Cream |Size:4 oz. |Star ingredients:Almond oil, coconut oil, glycerin

PHOTO: People / Michelle ParentePHOTO: People / Michelle Parente

Best OilOlio E Osso Lisica Shave OilPHOTO: Shopbop$30 at AmazonView on Olioeosso.com$30 at RevolveStar QualitiesHighly moisturizing with no irritationSpreads super easilyA little goes a long wayRed FlagsStays on the skin for awhile after shaving, leaving behind a heavier feelMay be a bit of a learning curve in terms of how much to useShave oil is a good option for those who don’t love creams or foams but still want something that spreads like a dream. This formula from Olio thoroughly moisturizes the skin. It spreads evenly but doesn’t lather like foam or other traditional shave products, so we didn’tquitegetthe clean shave we were hoping for. However, the oil helped ward off irritation, razor burn, and ingrown hairs and left our skin muchsofter than other options.Formula:Oil |Size:4 oz. |Star ingredients:Olive oil, shea oil, beeswax, grapefruit essential oilPeople / Anna Pattison

Best OilOlio E Osso Lisica Shave OilPHOTO: Shopbop$30 at AmazonView on Olioeosso.com$30 at Revolve

Best OilOlio E Osso Lisica Shave Oil

Best Oil

Olio E Osso Lisica Shave Oil

PHOTO: Shopbop

$30 at AmazonView on Olioeosso.com$30 at Revolve

Star QualitiesHighly moisturizing with no irritationSpreads super easilyA little goes a long wayRed FlagsStays on the skin for awhile after shaving, leaving behind a heavier feelMay be a bit of a learning curve in terms of how much to use

Star QualitiesHighly moisturizing with no irritationSpreads super easilyA little goes a long way

Highly moisturizing with no irritation

Spreads super easily

A little goes a long way

Red FlagsStays on the skin for awhile after shaving, leaving behind a heavier feelMay be a bit of a learning curve in terms of how much to use

Stays on the skin for awhile after shaving, leaving behind a heavier feel

May be a bit of a learning curve in terms of how much to use

Shave oil is a good option for those who don’t love creams or foams but still want something that spreads like a dream. This formula from Olio thoroughly moisturizes the skin. It spreads evenly but doesn’t lather like foam or other traditional shave products, so we didn’tquitegetthe clean shave we were hoping for. However, the oil helped ward off irritation, razor burn, and ingrown hairs and left our skin muchsofter than other options.

Formula:Oil |Size:4 oz. |Star ingredients:Olive oil, shea oil, beeswax, grapefruit essential oil

People / Anna Pattison

Best for Bikini LineFur Shave CreamPHOTO: Ulta$32 at Amazon$32 at Ulta$32 at DermstoreStar QualitiesProvided a smooth shave on delicate areas with no nicks or cutsBoth moisturizing and exfoliating ingredientsLightweight, creamy consistency that bubbles up to a nice latherRed FlagsPricey for the amount (but a little goes a long way)When it comes to the bikini line, an irritation-free experience is a necessity. We loved the Fur Shave Cream for its creamy consistency. The bottle promises maximum glide and zero razor burn — and the formula totally delivers. We experienced a close, smooth shave on a delicate area prone to nicks and cuts. Plus, our skin felt smooth and silky, thanks to all the moisturizing ingredients. It might seem pricey considering the small size, but we found a little goes a long way with this product.Formula:Cream |Size:5 oz. |Star ingredients:Olive oil aloe, lemon peel oilPeople / Caitlyn Martyn

Best for Bikini LineFur Shave CreamPHOTO: Ulta$32 at Amazon$32 at Ulta$32 at Dermstore

Best for Bikini LineFur Shave Cream

Best for Bikini Line

Fur Shave Cream

$32 at Amazon$32 at Ulta$32 at Dermstore

Star QualitiesProvided a smooth shave on delicate areas with no nicks or cutsBoth moisturizing and exfoliating ingredientsLightweight, creamy consistency that bubbles up to a nice latherRed FlagsPricey for the amount (but a little goes a long way)

Star QualitiesProvided a smooth shave on delicate areas with no nicks or cutsBoth moisturizing and exfoliating ingredientsLightweight, creamy consistency that bubbles up to a nice lather

Provided a smooth shave on delicate areas with no nicks or cuts

Both moisturizing and exfoliating ingredients

Lightweight, creamy consistency that bubbles up to a nice lather

Red FlagsPricey for the amount (but a little goes a long way)

Pricey for the amount (but a little goes a long way)

When it comes to the bikini line, an irritation-free experience is a necessity. We loved the Fur Shave Cream for its creamy consistency. The bottle promises maximum glide and zero razor burn — and the formula totally delivers. We experienced a close, smooth shave on a delicate area prone to nicks and cuts. Plus, our skin felt smooth and silky, thanks to all the moisturizing ingredients. It might seem pricey considering the small size, but we found a little goes a long way with this product.

Formula:Cream |Size:5 oz. |Star ingredients:Olive oil aloe, lemon peel oil

People / Caitlyn Martyn

Best GelGillette Cleanser + Shave GelPHOTO: UltaView on Amazon$10 at Target$13$10 at WalmartStar QualitiesCreamy consistency that covers skin wellpH-balanced for use on pubic areaLeft us with a smooth, clean shaveRed FlagsDoesn’t lather as much as we were expectingWe loved the creaminess of this cleanser and shave gel combo. It does lather, but it feels more like a cleanser than a cream, which actually makes it easier to apply evenly across the skin. The formula is also pH-balanced, which allows for an irritation-free shave without a hint of razor burn or ingrown hair — a bonus if you plan to use it for your bikini line. Aside from how smooth our skin felt post-shave, we loved that the formula is free of dyes, parabens, silicones, and other fragrances.Formula:Gel |Size:6.42 oz. |Star ingredients:Coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oilPeople / Samantha Benoit

Best GelGillette Cleanser + Shave GelPHOTO: UltaView on Amazon$10 at Target$13$10 at Walmart

Best GelGillette Cleanser + Shave Gel

Best Gel

Gillette Cleanser + Shave Gel

View on Amazon$10 at Target$13$10 at Walmart

Star QualitiesCreamy consistency that covers skin wellpH-balanced for use on pubic areaLeft us with a smooth, clean shaveRed FlagsDoesn’t lather as much as we were expecting

Star QualitiesCreamy consistency that covers skin wellpH-balanced for use on pubic areaLeft us with a smooth, clean shave

Creamy consistency that covers skin well

pH-balanced for use on pubic area

Left us with a smooth, clean shave

Red FlagsDoesn’t lather as much as we were expecting

Doesn’t lather as much as we were expecting

We loved the creaminess of this cleanser and shave gel combo. It does lather, but it feels more like a cleanser than a cream, which actually makes it easier to apply evenly across the skin. The formula is also pH-balanced, which allows for an irritation-free shave without a hint of razor burn or ingrown hair — a bonus if you plan to use it for your bikini line. Aside from how smooth our skin felt post-shave, we loved that the formula is free of dyes, parabens, silicones, and other fragrances.

Formula:Gel |Size:6.42 oz. |Star ingredients:Coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil

People / Samantha Benoit

Other Shaving Creams We Tried

Billie Whipped Shave Cream:We also tried the Billie Whipped Shave Cream, which is formulated for sensitive skin types and gentle enough to provide a close shave without irritating the skin. While testing, we found that the formula was a bit too thin for our liking, but it still worked well to smooth our skin and also provided enough slip for our razors to glide across our skin.

Kopari Organic Coconut Melt:The Kopari Organic Coconut Melt is another formula that stood out to us during the testing period. Since it’s formulated with coconut oil, we found it to be ultra-nourishing but also just a bit too greasy for our liking. Nonetheless, it’s worth mentioning because it worked well at preserving our spray tan while shaving — an unexpected perk.

What to Know About Shaving Creams

Price and Value

It’s always a win when you find a product you use often in a budget-friendly price range. That’s why we loved theFlamingo Foaming Shaving Geland theSkintimate Skin Therapy Dry Skin Women’s Shave Gel, priced at around $6 and $4, respectively. And while we say “oui” to splurging on theOui the People Sugarcoat Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk, it really depends on how much you plan to shave. With many of the products on our list, a little goes a long way, so keep in mind there’s value to be had, regardless of the price tag.

The product’s size can also contribute to its value. If you’re looking for the best value and don’t mind spending a bit more upfront, a more expensive — but much larger — bottle could be worth the splurge. If you’re shopping with value in mind,Eos Sensitive Skin Shave CreamandSkintimate Shave Gelboth come in 7-ounce bottles for budget-friendly price tags. The Skintimate gel is actually the best value on our list, though, since it comes in a three-pack for under $10.

Formula/Consistency

Whether you choose a gel, foam, oil, or cream is entirely up to you. We suggest opting for one that is easy to apply a thin layer to your skin to create a smooth route for your razor to travel, but not so much that you’ll end up wasting the product. It also depends on whether you prefer to shave wet or dry; we like that theHanni Shave Pillow Moisturizing Body Gelallows you to shave either way. But, if you prefer a thicker consistency, go with theEos Sensitive Skin Shave Creamand, for something a bit thinner, try theOui The People Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk.

Ingredients

As with all skin products, you’ll want to read the ingredients to see that you’re avoiding any allergens and are keying into your skin’s unique needs. Ingredients are especially important in shaving cream because you’re applying a sharp razor against the skin and need some extra slip. Plus, shaving is exfoliating, so the added moisture can help soothe the skin and improve its texture. We love the moisturizing effects ofFur Shave Creamfor the bikini line and the shea butter-infusedEos Shea Butter Dry Skin Shave Cream, which is calming for irritated skin. If you prefer something with all-natural ingredients, theLather Almond Shave Creamis a good bet.

People / Nicole Anderson

Our PEOPLE Tested team tried out 20 shave creams and gels, using a multi-blade razor and shaving at least twice a week over the two-week trial period. For each shaving cream, we evaluated based on the feel and consistency of the product, how well it lathered, if it easily distributed across the shaving area, how close and even the shave turned out, whether there was any skin irritation, and how our skin looked and felt after the shaving was complete.

We rated each of the products on a 1 to 5 scale based on the different testing categories. The products that earned the highest average rating made it on this list of the best shaving creams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Both gels and foams are good for shaving because they help the razor glide more easily along the skin. It depends on what you prefer in terms of application. Some like a luxurious foaming shave cream while others find they use too much of it and can barely move the razor through it. Aside from proper application technique, you’ll want to make sure the ingredients match up with your skin’s needs, especially if you’ve got sensitive skin.

Yes, especially if you have sensitive skin. Using a razor without first applying cream or foam is a surefire way of irritating your skin with razor burn and painful ingrown hairs. Whatever formula you prefer, be it gel, oil, or foam, make sure to use the right amount of product so you can glide your razor over your skin easily for a close, irritation-free shave.

Barbara Bellesi Zitois a contributing writer for PEOPLE. Her work has appeared in Health.com, Forbes Advisor, BELLA Magazine, Apartment Therapy, The Motley Fool, Martha Stewart Living, and Insider. To write this story, she consulted our testers about a range of shaving creams and gained their perspectives on qualities such as feel, consistency, and lather. She also interviewedRosmy Barrios, MD, head of the regenerative aesthetics and anti-aging department atIM Clinic.Jessie Quinnis also a contributing writer for PEOPLE, and she recently updated this story with the latest insights.

Our Expert PanelRosmy Barrios, MD, is the head of the regenerative aesthetics and anti-aging department atIM Clinic.

Our Expert Panel

Rosmy Barrios, MD, is the head of the regenerative aesthetics and anti-aging department atIM Clinic.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com