Why do we use Shaving Cream? What is the difference between a Shaving Cream and Shaving Gel?
Facial hair can be both a blessing and a curse. For some, sporting a burly beard is a godsend, while for others, it’s the biggest inconvenience on the face of the planet. If you align more with the latter — or really, anywhere in between — you’re going to need a reliable shaving setup.
And if you still prefer the traditional wet razor, shaving cream should be at or near the top of your list. Some don’t prioritize shaving cream, but those people are sadly misguided — it can be the difference in a clean, close shave and an unkempt neck full of razor burns and half-shaven stubble.
You lather up your beard properly with shaving cream, gel, or foam before starting each shave but you may be left wondering, why do I have to do this every time I have to shave?
How necessary is lathering up with shaving cream before you start shaving?
The answer lies in your skin and hair. (NEVER try to shave without applying shaving cream etc)
Why do we need to use Shaving Cream or Gel?
As you know when you shave your hair the blade creates friction on your skin as it needs some force to cut each hair. When you apply shaving gel or cream it softens the hair by providing proper lubrication to them.
Shaving cream hence makes a thing layer of protection between the skin and the blade that glides over it. This eventually helps in decreasing the friction and ultimately minimizes the risk of razor burn, irritation, redness of the skin and above all lesser nicks and cuts.
Writing about it in detail gives me shivers! It’s because I have really hurt myself badly twice while I was shaving carelessly. Guys always be extremely careful when you shave your hair.
There are many types of shaving creams including aerosol shaving cream (commonly know as shaving foam), latherless shaving cream (also called brushless shaving cream and non-aerosol shaving cream), and lather shaving cream or lathering shaving cream. Then there are shaving gels too. The work of each of these is the same.
What are the qualities of a good Shaving Cream?
A good shaving cream must have all 3 of the following qualities. If it misses any one of these then it can’t be called a good shaving cream at all.
1. Amazing lubrication to protect the skin
A good quality shaving cream has a high-fat concentration, mainly in the form of natural oils which do not penetrate the skin. These oils protect the skin in the form of lubrication, making it easier for the blade to glide along the skin surface to cut the hair without dragging the skin.
2. Moisturizing properties to soften the beard
Good shaving cream contains glycerine derived from natural oils. Glycerine has a humectant property. It locks the moisture to keep the skin hydrated and surrounds the hairs with a humid environment making them easier to cut.
3. Emolliating the skin, allowing it to recover
Most shaving products contain artificial colorings and preservatives. These substances can irritate and dry out the skin. Good shaving creams do not contain any of these, or other substances (e.g Parabens and SLS) making them perfect emollients. They soften and soothe the skin, allowing it to recover after the shave.
What is the difference between Shaving Foam and Shaving Gel?
Shaving foams and gels basically do the same thing but still, have different properties.
| Shaving Foam | Shaving Gel |
| Instant light lather | Richer lather |
| Airy | Enhanced lubricants |
| Easy to rinse away | More razor glide |
| More protection for your skin |
Some of the best Shaving Creams can be found here. Click Here.
