December 8, 2024

Movember is nearing its close. So for those looking to lose that mo grow’ meet your new secret weapon to a smoother shave: shaving oil. If you’re prone to razor burn – which for Latino men with thick stubborn hair, that means most of you – shaving oils help moisturize and protect skin, and prevent nicks and cuts. Their clear formula also makes it easy to navigate around facial topiary for good, clean lines. Here’s why and how to get the most out of shaving oils.

Oil vs. Cream

Previously, shaving oils were used to prep the skin before lathering up with cream. Now, newer oils are formulated to go solo. Specifically they add more moisture and lubrication making the skin softer and easier to shave even more than some shaving creams.

dirty machines for shearing or cleaning machines for a haircut with the necessary tools on the table

The Test

Men benefit from using something on their skin whether it is a gel, foam or shaving oil. “It is particularly important that men with course hair use some sort of shaving lubricant, to avoid irritation around the hair follicles, which can occur when there is too much friction while shaving,” says Eric Schweiger, M.D., a New York City-based dermatologist and founder of Schwieger Dermatology. “The advantage of shaving oils is that they allow men to visualize the skin as they are shaving and provide moisture to the skin…so that a razor glides smoothly across and does not pull at the individual hairs, which can cause inflammation around the hair follicles.”

How to Use

Thoroughly rinse your face with warm water. Use the oil sparingly — just a few a drops is all you need for perfect results. Place 2-3 drops in the palms of your hands, rub together and gently massage onto the skin in circular motions to apply a thin, evenly distributed layer on the shaving area. Allow the oil to set for a minute or two so it can soak in and soften hair. For extra stubborn stubble, leave it on a little longer.

What to Look For

Look for products that are all natural with ingredients that come from plants or trees (like sunflowers, coconuts, olives) and that include antibacterial agents (like tea tree oil). Ingredients like these help prevent breakouts, cuts and irritation. Choose a shaving oil that is moisturizing and formulated for the face, and that “it is non-comedogenic or non-acegenic (meaning won’t cause acne),” recommends Dr. Schweiger.

Shaving Oils to Try

For All Skin Types

Anthony Pre-Shave & Conditioning Beard Oil, $26. This go-to skin essential has peppermint, eucalyptus and rosemary. It’s perfect for the man who takes his maintenance seriously. The light-weight antidote allows for a strong face prep. Plus a portion of sales goes to prostate cancer research. It’s a win win!


$26.00 at Amazon.com BUY IT

For Extra Coarse/Dry Hair

The Gentlemen’s Beard Premium Beard Oil Leave-In Conditioner and Softener, $18.97. This oil softens dry facial hair using natural ingredients like Vitamin E and Evening Primrose Oil while it conditions the skin to reduce post-shave itchiness and irritation. Since it’s fragrance free it battles “bearddruff” so you don’t have to.


$19.97 at Amazon.com BUY IT

For Sensitive Skin

Port Products Conditioning Beard Absolute, $20. The award-winning ointment works just as powerfully as it sounds. Tapping into the hydrating benefits of argan and grapeseed oil, this product revitalizes hair and skin without clogging pores, leaving behind a light sandlewood scent.


$20.00 at Amazon.com BUY IT

If you liked this article. Check these out: Face It Like A Man..A Guide to Summer Skincare; Why Women Love a Mustache

About The Author

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Ana Mantica has been a writer and editor for over 10 years, specializing in health, nutrition and lifestyle. Aside from her regular and stellar contributions to `LLERO, Ana has been published in outlets such Cosmo for Latinas, Woman's Day for Latinas, Self and Fitness and is a correspondent for Forbes Travel Guide. Ms. Mantica is a proud Nica/Cuban and is HQ’d in Miami, Florida.

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