Shaving Cream Alternatives: What Derms Say You Can and Can’t Use
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If you’re out of shaving cream and need a quick solution before your next restock, you’re in luck. There are a few shaving cream alternatives that you likely already have in your kitchen pantry. Better yet, the below substitutes are all dermatologist approved.
“When it comes to shaving, we need a little bit of friction and lubrication to allow the blade and the razor to swipe nicely on the skin,” says Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. “When we don’t have that type of friction, that’s when people get nicks, scars, razor bumps, ingrown hairs, infections, you name it. So, shaving gels and creams are extremely important, making the hair softer to help the shaving process be smoother and easier.”
Meet the experts: Rachel Westbay M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical; Nazanin Saedi, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University; Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board certified adult pediatric and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist affiliated with Northwell Dermatology in New York.
But when we don’t have shaving cream on hand—or want to avoid parabens or other harsh ingredients in them—we can use a shaving cream substitute to get similar results. And just like with shaving cream, “The alternative needs to help the razor glide over the skin and minimize irritation and razor burn,” says Nazanin Saedi, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University.
Keep reading for the best shaving cream alternatives, vetted by dermatologists.
Shaving cream alternatives
You want to make sure you completely wet your skin before proceeding with the following shaving cream substitutes. And keep in mind that shaving cream was formulated the way it was for a reason—to make your hair softer and help make shaving smoother. These quick, in-a-pinch solutions may have their own risks, which we note below.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera gel has hydration benefits along with cooling effects, Dr. Saedi tells Prevention. “It can be used to moisturize and soothe the skin.” I myself have used aloe vera on and off as a shaving cream replacement for years and have yet to experience any issues. I appreciate the cooling and relieving feeling after use.
If you don’t already own aloe vera, you can get it at any drugstore in the form of a gel bottle. Two popular options are the Seven Minerals Organic Aloe Vera Gel and the Aloderma Organic Aloe Vera Gel.
Baby oil
Rachel Westbay M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical, recommends baby oil, saying it’s a great substitute that promotes moisture and won’t be too harsh on the skin.
Johnson’s Baby Oil, is a household staple you likely already have in your bathroom cabinet. It’s hypoallergenic and formulated for delicate baby skin. It even helps relieve skin irritation and keeps moisture locked in.
Coconut oil
According to Dr. Saedi, coconut oil is an effective moisturizer that can also be used as an alternative to shaving cream. “I also like that coconut oil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties,” she says. Just keep in mind that coconut oil is comedogenic, meaning it can clog your pores. Avoid using it on your face, especially if you have sensitive or oily skin.
The Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, is an online favorite that is unrefined and non-GMO. Along with hair and skin needs, it can be used for cooking or baking and lasts a while.
Olive oil
Olive oil is hair- and skin-friendly and contains vitamins E and K: two important vitamins for your skin and blood. Dr. Saedi also mentions that olive oil is rich antioxidants. She just warns that it might be a little greasy to use. We advise against using it on your face, especially if you have sensitive or oily skin.
Shaving oil
If you’re purposely avoiding shaving cream because of the alcohol content, Dr. Westbay finds that a good shaving oil can be a strong alternative for shaving cream. “Shaving oil is a more moisturizing vehicle that allows the razor to slide easily over the skin and prevent any friction—this gives your skin hydration, which is very important post-shave,” she explains.
Two popular ones on the market include the eos Cashmere Skin Collection Shave Oil and the Tree Hut Vanilla Moisturizing & Hydrating Bare Shave Oil. Users praise both for their pleasant scent, hydrating qualities and smoothness while shaving.
Household items to avoid using as an alternate to shaving cream
For one, don’t use just plain water. “I hear patients doing this all of the time, and it’s a recipe for nicks, cuts and itchy, dry skin,” warns Dr. Westbay. “I would also avoid using any type of soap as an alternative for shaving cream, whether it be hand soap, body wash or a bar of soap.” She explains that although these products could potentially result in a smooth shave, they are very drying on your skin and will not have any long-term benefits. “You’re better off using products that promote moisture, like shave oils or baby oil, if you want an alternative to shaving creams,” Dr. Westbay concludes.
You also want to avoid using peanut butter, avocados or honey. These are often referred to as shaving cream alternatives online, but Dr. Saedi says, “Not only can these be messy, but they can also draw moisture out of your skin.”
Things to keep in mind when using shaving cream substitutes
Just like with new skincare products, you always want to pay extra attention to how your skin reacts to any of these shaving cream alternatives. Reactions can happen, and if for any reason you notice a reaction on your skin when testing an alternative, Dr. Westbay suggests to stop using that product immediately. “Sometimes trying out new products can be trial and error, and the most important thing is that you’re comfortable with whatever products you are using,” she says. “To be extra cautious, consider a patch test on only one small area, waiting 72 hours to see if a reaction develops, and proceeding with the entire intended area if tolerated.”
Shaving cream alternatives for sensitive areas
Sensitive areas like the pubic region should be handled with extra care. Dr. Westbay recommends using baby oil since it has been proven to work on delicate skin and isn’t too harsh.
Dr. Saedi also suggests using coconut oil, olive oil or aloe vera can be used for more “However, you might want to try an area like your wrist with the product first to see if you have a reaction,” she advises. “I also would not use oils on the face, because they can clog your pores and make you break out.”
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