The Complete Pre-Shave & Post-Shave Guide for Wet Shaving
If you've made the switch to traditional wet shaving, you already know the difference a good razor and shaving cream makes. Pre and post-shave products are the next step, and for many shavers, the missing piece that takes a good shave to a genuinely great one.
This guide covers what each product does, how to use them correctly, and which formulas suit different skin types.
Why Pre and Post-Shave Products Matter
Most shavers focus on the razor and the cream. Pre and post-shave products tend to get overlooked, but they do two things nothing else in your kit can: prepare the skin before the blade arrives, and repair it after the blade has left.
Skip the pre-shave step and you're shaving skin that isn't fully ready. Hairs not fully softened, pores not open, no protective layer between your skin and the razor. Skip the post-shave step and you're leaving irritated, freshly-shaved skin to fend for itself.
Neither is a deal-breaker on its own, but both make a noticeable difference.
Our Top Pre-Shave Picks
Pre-shave products are applied before your shaving cream or soap. Their job is to open the pores, soften the beard, and create a protective base layer that helps the razor glide cleanly without dragging.
Best all-rounder: Proraso Eucalyptus & Menthol Pre-Shave Cream 100ml The Italian classic. Eucalyptus oil and menthol open the pores and invigorate the skin, while the cream base softens the beard ready for the blade. Works with any shaving cream or soap and suits most skin types.
Best for sensitive skin: Proraso Green Tea & Oatmeal Pre-Shave Cream 100ml Specifically formulated for reactive skin. Fragrance-reduced and built around soothing ingredients that prepare the skin without aggravating it. A good starting point if your skin tends to redden or react after shaving.
Our Top Post-Shave Picks
Post-shave products are applied after rinsing off your shaving cream. Freshly-shaved skin has just had a layer of cells removed by the razor. It's temporarily more sensitive, more susceptible to bacteria, and in need of moisture. Post-shave products address all three.
Best post-shave lotion: Proraso Eucalyptus & Menthol After Shave Lotion 100ml Fast-absorbing and refreshing, with a light alcohol content that acts as an antiseptic on any small nicks. The classic choice for normal to oily skin types. Pairs directly with the Proraso pre-shave for a complete routine.
Best post-shave balm: Proraso Aloe & Vitamin E Protective After Shave Balm 100ml Alcohol-free and considerably richer than a lotion. Aloe vera and vitamin E calm and hydrate skin that needs more than a quick refresh. The better choice for dry or sensitive skin, or for anyone who shaves daily and finds lotions too stripping.
Choosing the Right Products for Your Skin
Sensitive skin: Avoid alcohol-based splashes and anything with synthetic fragrance. Look for fragrance-free balms with calming ingredients like aloe vera, oatmeal, or chamomile. Proraso's Sensitive Skin range covers both pre and post-shave in one consistent formulation.
Dry skin: Prioritise moisture at every step. A pre-shave cream adds a protective layer the shaving cream alone won't provide, and a post-shave balm with shea butter or glycerin will prevent that tight, stripped feeling after the shave.
Oily skin: Lighter formulas work better here. An after-shave lotion with witch hazel will tone and balance the skin without adding unwanted weight or clogging pores.
How to Use Pre and Post-Shave Products: Step by Step
1. Pre-shave Wet your face thoroughly with warm water to open the pores. Apply a small amount of pre-shave cream and work it into the beard with circular motions to lift the hairs. Leave it on — don't rinse before applying your shaving cream or soap on top.
2. Shave Apply your shaving cream or soap over the pre-shave product and shave as normal. Shave with the grain on the first pass; if you need a closer result, re-lather and go across or against the grain on a second pass. Not sure which cream or soap to use? See our guide to the best shaving creams, soaps & gels in Australia.
3. Post-shave Rinse with cold water to close the pores and remove any remaining lather. Pat dry with a clean towel and apply your after-shave balm or lotion while the skin is still slightly damp for better absorption.
The Bottom Line
Pre and post-shave products won't transform a bad shaving technique, but they will noticeably improve a good one. If you've already made the switch to a quality razor and shaving cream, these are the logical next step toward a shave that's consistently comfortable, close, and kind to your skin.
Hello, I am interested in the shavette razor not sure on correct use or technique. any assistance or just google ???? – regards andrew