The Best Pre-Shave Oils in 2025

Imagine transforming your daily shave from a chore into a luxurious ritual that leaves your skin feeling pampered and refreshed. The secret? Incorporating a quality pre-shave oil into your routine.

Pre-shave oils create a protective barrier between your skin and the razor, reducing irritation and ensuring a smoother glide. By softening the hair and moisturizing the skin, they help prevent common shaving woes like razor burn and ingrown hairs.

Whether you're maintaining a bald head or grooming facial hair, the right pre-shave oil can elevate your shaving experience to a whole new level.

Best Pre-Shave Oils at a Glance:

• Best Overall: Freebird Sandalwood Pre Shave Oil, $11.65
• Runner Up: Bevel Pre-Shave Priming Oil, $14.95
• Best for Coarse Beards: Lather & Wood Pre Shave Oil, $18.99
• Best Budget Friendly: Shave Secret Pre Shave Oil, $7.30
• Best for Sensitive Skin: The Art of Shaving Unscented Pre-Shave Oil, $99.00 
• Best Natural: The Viking Revolution Sandalwood Pre-shave Oil, $9.88

*Prices are accurate as of publishing, may be subject to change.

6 Best Pre-Shave Oils for a Smooth Shave

We’ve rounded up the six best pre-shave oils for every skin type and preference, from sensitive skin to coarse beards and bald heads.

Whether you want a light, natural feel or a richer, more luxurious glide, there’s an option to elevate your shave and keep irritation at bay.

Freebird Sandalwood Pre-Shave Oil - Best Overall

Freebird's Sandalwood Lubricating Pre-Shave Oil is our top pick for the best pre-shave oil on the market.

It features a balanced blend of natural ingredients, including olive oil and castor oil, providing a smooth shave and a masculine sandalwood scent.

Freebird's pre-shave oil is a multitasker. While designed for bald heads, it can also double as a beard oil. How's that for versatility?

Its thick, protective viscosity is perfect for electric shavers and straight or safety razor users.

The thicker consistency provides an excellent protective layer, ensuring a comfortable and close shave even for those with coarse hair.

Pros:

• Designed for head shaving
• Works for the head and beard
• Made from 100% natural oils
• Reduces razor burns and bumps
• Hydrates skin
• Provides a closer shave
• Works on sensitive skin
• A few drops go a long way
• Available in a full shave care kit for better value
• 30-day trial

Cons:

• Need to subscribe for best prices (up to 37% off)
• Sandalwood scent (not for everyone)

Who It's For: This is your go-to if you're rocking a bald head or a beard and want one oil that does it all. It works well if you use electric, straight, or safety razors, have tough-to-shave coarse hair, or just love that classic sandalwood scent.

Buy at MyFreebird.com for as little as $11.65 per bottle or on Amazon for around $14.

Better yet, buy the shave care kit, which includes the pre-shave oil, shave gel, and post-shave lotion.

Bevel Pre-Shave Priming Oil - Runner-Up

Coming in as a runner-up for the best pre-shave oil is the Bevel Pre-Shave Priming Oil. This works well for various beard types. It features a blend of lavender oil, sunflower seed oil, olive oil, and castor oil, which helps to moisturize and lubricate the skin and hair.

The Bevel Pre-Shave Priming Oil gives you a protective layer between the skin and the razor, softening the hair and moisturizing the skin so that the razor glides more easily. This leads to a more comfortable shaving experience free of nicks and cuts.

It also has a pleasant, subtle scent that won’t overpower your other grooming products.

Overall, Bevel Pre-Shave Priming Oil is a high-quality, versatile choice for elevating one's shaving routine.

Pros:

• Softens beard hair
• Provides a close shave
• Prevents razor burn
• Reduces nicks and cuts
• Lessen pulling and tugging
• Subtle scent

Cons:

• N/A

Who It's For: Grab this one if your beard has a mind of its own and you need one product to tame it all. It'll soften your hair and get your skin ready for a super comfortable shave. Plus, it has a subtle scent that won't fight with your cologne.

Buy at GetBevel.com or Amazon.

Lather & Wood Pre-Shave Oil - Best for Coarse Beards

Dealing with a coarse beard can cause shaving problems, but Lather & Wood Pre-Shaving solves this dilemma. It's specifically designed for coarse beards, ensuring a comfortable and close shave.

Lather & Wood Shaving Unscented Pre-Shave Oil has an all-natural formula that softens skin. Many users enjoy the scent, how it feels on their skin, and how it makes shaving easier.

Pros:

• Designed for coarse beards 
• Formulated for wet shaving
• Softens skin for a comfortable shave

Cons:

• Sandalwood scent (not for everyone)

Who It's For: If you've got a coarse beard that's a real pain to shave, this oil is your secret weapon. It's made to make shaving tough hair way smoother and more comfortable.

Buy at Lather & Wood or Amazon.

Shave Secret Pre-Shave Oil - Best Budget-Friendly

For those on a budget, Shave Secret Pre-Shave is an affordable option that doesn’t compromise quality. Priced under $10, this pre-shave oil delivers a smooth shaving experience, making it a great choice for wet shave enthusiasts.

Shave Secret Pre-Shave Oil combines base oils, essential oils, RX-grade menthol, and natural fragrance oil. A few drops are all you need to soften hair and prepare the skin, saving you money in the long run.

Don’t let the budget-friendly price tag fool you; Shave Secret Pre-Shave Oil is a high-quality product that will leave your skin feeling smooth and free of irritation.

Pros:

• Affordable
• High quality despite low price
• Provides a smooth, irritation-free shave

Cons:

• Contains menthol (not for everyone)
• Some reviews say it clogged their razors

Who It's For: This is your pick if you want a pre-shave oil without emptying your wallet. Shave Secret proves that quality pre-shave oils don't have to cost a fortune.

Buy from Shave Secret or Amazon.

The Art of Shaving Unscented Pre-Shave Oil- Best for Sensitive Skin

The Art of Shaving Unscented is a gentle pre-shave oil specially designed for sensitive skin. It provides a close shave and a comfortable experience, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin who want to avoid any skin reactions or irritation.

While this oil might set you back a few extra bucks, its quality is worth every penny.

Pros:

• Designed for sensitive skin
• Softens facial hair
• Reduces pulling and tugging
• Lessens razor burn and bumps
• Leaves no oily residue
• Suitable for all beard types

Cons:

• Unscented (not for everyone)
• Pricey

Who It's For: If your skin freaks out with every shave, this unscented oil is your new best friend. It's made for sensitive skin, helping you dodge irritation and razor burn. Plus, it has no scent to cause any trouble with allergies.

Buy at The Art of Shaving or Amazon.

The Viking Revolution Sandalwood Pre-Shave Oil - Best Natural

Are you looking for an all-natural pre-shave oil that helps you get a smooth, irritation-free shave? The Viking Revolution checks all the boxes. It's made from all-natural ingredients and helps prevent ingrown hairs and irritation.

The scent of sandalwood is quite strong on this pre-shave oil. If you don't mind smelling like sandalwood, this oil is for you.

Pros:

• Made from all natural ingredients
• Helps prevents irritation
• Reduces friction for a smoother shave

Cons:

• Strong sandalwood scent (not for everyone)

Who It's For: Go for this one if you're all about natural ingredients and want an oil that fights ingrown hairs and irritation. Just be ready for that strong sandalwood scent, that users either love or hate.

Buy at The Viking Revolution or on Amazon.

Pre-Shave Oils vs. Shaving Oils: What's the Difference?

As its name implies, pre-shave oil goes on before shaving. Think of it as a warm up act, getting your skin and hair ready and soft before shaving. When you team it up with other shaving products like cream, gel, foam, or soap, it gives you an extra layer of protection and lubrication.

Shaving oil, in contrast, can totally go solo. It's a bit thicker than pre-shave oil, so you can use it as an alternative to shaving cream. 

The Benefits of Using Pre-Shave Oils

Adding a pre-shave oil to your shaving routine has a handful of benefits:

• Reduces irritation: acts like an invisible shield between your razor blades and your skin, reducing the chances of irritation.

• Eliminates razor burn: reduces friction big time and doesn't give those pesky rashes to show up.

• Softens hair: helps soften hair, making it easier to cut.

• Improves razor glide: creates a super smooth surface on your skin, allowing razor blades to glide easily.

• Hydrates skin: helps keep skin hydrated and moisturized.

How to Choose the Right Pre-Shave Oil for You

With so many pre-shave oils out there, finding the perfect one for your skin type and preferences might feel like trying to pick your favorite Avenger. To help you make the right choice, consider factors  like scent, ingredients, and size.

Scent

When it comes to scent, it’s all about what you like. Some pre-shave oils get their natural smell from essential oils, while others are unscented or have synthetic fragrances. Choose a scent you enjoy, but keep in mind that scents might be irritating if you have sensitive skin. If that's the case, just stick with unscented.

Ingredients

Look for natural or organic ingredients that nourish and protect your skin. Avoid synthetic ingredients that may irritate you. You're skin's not a chemistry experiment, after all!

Many pre-shave oils use natural oils like castor, olive, and sweet almond oils, providing additional nourishment and skin protection. These natural oils help moisturize your skin, reducing the risk of irritation and razor burn.

Size

Lastly, think about the size of the pre-shave oil bottle you're buying and how it fits into your grooming routine. If you travel frequently or have limited space, grab a smaller bottle that’s easy to pack and stash. But if you're a homebody, buying a bigger bottle could save you some money.

How to Properly Apply Pre-Shave Oils

To get the most out of your pre-shave oil, you need to put it on correctly. Don't just slap it on, using a little technique goes a long way here.

1. Start by washing your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt and oil from your skin. Think of it as clearing the runway for a smooth landing. This will help the pre-shave oil soak in better and provide the best protection during shaving.
2. Next, put a small amount of pre-shave oil (2 to 3 drops) to your damp skin, and gently massage it in. This ensures you have a thin, even layer that provides enough lubrication without gunking up your razor. No one wants a clogged blade mid shave!
3. Let the oil to sit on your skin for a minute or two to give it time to soften your facial hair and create a protective layer.
4. Once your pre-shave oil has been applied, proceed with your regular shaving routine using your preferred shaving cream or gel.
5. Grab your electric shaver or razor and enjoy the smooth glide as you begin shaving.
6. Remember to rinse your razor often to prevent any buildup of oil and hair, ensuring a smooth and comfortable shave from start to finish.

Combining Pre-Shave Oils with Other Shaving Products

Think of pre-shave oils as the perfect wingman for your shaving cream or gel. Using them together? That's how you double the benefits. It's like adding a turbocharger in your shaving routine. 

You'll get a smoother and more comfortable shave as your pre-shave oil creates a slick, lubricated surface while your shaving cream or gel provides a nice cushion between your skin and razor blades.

Freebird offers a shave care kit that combines pre-shave oil, shave gel, and post-shave lotion.

The Bottom Line

Pre-shave oils are a good addition to your shaving arsenal, especially if you have dry skin and constantly deal with razor burns, bumps, and irritation.

They prep your skin before shaving and make your shaving cream work better to give a smoother, irritation-free shave. They're not just a trend, they're a key part of a baldie's grooming routine.

Whether you're preparing for a big meeting or just want to look sharp for a date, these oils will elevate your shaving game to a new level!

Choose from the best ones we've listed and you're all set.

FAQs

What is the Best Natural Oil to Use Before Shaving?

Olive oil or castor oil is the best natural oil to use before shaving. These oils offer protective and lubricating properties, plus give you a silky glide that helps prevent razor burn and irritation.

Are Pre-Shave Oils Worth It?

Yes, pre-shave oils are worth it! They help keep your skin moisturized, protect against razor burn and irritation, and even make blades glide more smoothly over your skin.

What is the Best Natural Oil to Prevent Razor Burn?

Tea tree oil is the best natural oil for preventing razor burns. It’s naturally anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, which helps reduce redness and itching caused by razor bumps.

Make sure to dilute it with warm water before applying it directly to your skin.

Do I Need Pre-Shave Oil with an Electric Razor?

It depends on your needs.

• Sensitive skin: If you have sensitive skin that's prone to irritation, a pre-shave oil can provide a protective layer and help reduce irritation.

• Coarse hair: Pre-shave oils can soften coarse hair, making it easier to cut.

• Dry skin: Pre-shave oil can help prevent scalp and facial dryness.

Is Pre-Shave Oil Necessary if I Already Use Shaving Cream or Gel?

Similar to our answer above, you may use pre-shave products to enhance the performance of your shaving cream or gel, especially if you have sensitive skin, coarse hair, or extremely dry skin.

Can Pre-Shave Oil Clog My Razor?

Pre-shave oil may clog your razor depending on the following:

• Razor type: Pre-shave oils with thicker consistency may clog cartridge razors and foil shavers. These razor types have small spaces between blades where oil can settle and affect cutting.

• Oil type: Some pre-shave oils have a thinner consistency, like jojoba or grapeseed oils, so lesser chances of clogging.

• Application: A few drops of pre-shave oil are all you need; applying too much may clog your blades.

To avoid clogging, look for pre-shave products that are designed for electric razors.

Does Pre-Shave Oil Give a Closer Shave?

Pre-shave oil may help provide a closer shave, but it's just one piece of the puzzle. Using a sharp blade, high quality shaving cream, and the right shaving techniques all contribute to a smooth and closer shave.

Can I Use Coconut Oil as Pre-Shave Oil?

Coconut oil is a natural and affordable oil you can use as a pre-shave oil.

Take note that coconut oil can be solid in colder temperatures. You need to warm it up to make it spreadable. It may also affect the lather if you plan to use it together with shaving cream.

Can I Use Olive Oil as a Pre-Shave Oil?

Olive oil can be an alternative to pre-shave oil, but it can be thick in cooler temperatures too, like coconut oil. It can also affect lather when shaving cream is your main lubricant.

Can Argan Oil be Used as Pre-Shave Oil?

Argan oil is a good pre-shave oil option, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. Its moisturizing properties can help you get a closer and smoother shave.

Is Castor Oil a Good Pre-Shave Oil?

Castor oil isn't an ideal pre-shave oil on its own due to its thickness. However, it can work if mixed with other thinner essential oils.

Does Pre-Shave Oil Prevent Ingrown Hairs?

Pre-shave oil may help prevent ingrown hairs, but it's just a part of what you need.

To avoid ingrown hairs, you also need sharp blades, exfoliation, the proper shaving technique, and a powerful motor (electric shavers).

You can read more in our article on how to prevent razor bumps (ingrown hairs).

How Much Pre-Shave Oil Should I Use Per Shave?

A small amount, usually a few drops, is all you need when using pre-shave oil. You may add a few more drops if you have coarse hair or are covering a larger area like your head, face, and neck.

Do You Put Pre-Shave Oil on Wet or Dry Skin?

Pre-shave oil is applied to damp skin after washing and cleansing so it absorbs better. Water can dilute the oil, so you need to pat the shaving areas dry before applying it.

Can You Make Your Own Pre-Shave Oil?

Yes, you can make your own pre-shave oil with some of the oils mentioned as carrier oils.

Carrier oils are your base oil, and a few drops of essential oils can be added for fragrance.

Popular carrier oils include Jojoba oil, Grapeseed oil, and Sweet almond oil.

We suggest essential oils like Tea Tree, Lavender, Cedarwood, and Sandalwood.

Use a dark dropper bottle and combine 1 ounce of carrier oil and 2 to 3 drops of essential oil. Swirl or shake to mix ingredients well.

Label your bottle and place the date because these oils expire. If you notice a change in smell, it's time to mix a fresh batch.

Does Pre-Shave Oil Cause Acne?

It depends on the type and quality of the oil used. Some oils may be harder to rinse off, which may clog pores and cause acne.

Pre-shave oils with all-natural ingredients will rinse off easily after shaving, reducing the chances of acne.

Is There a Difference Between Beard Oil and Pre-Shave Oil?

Yes, they have a different purpose.

A pre-shave oil is designed to prepare facial or scalp hair for shaving before applying shaving cream. On the other side of the coin, beard oil is meant to keep your beard healthy and manageable after you've grown it out. Think of it as prep vs. maintenance.