Shaving kits contain everything you need for a great shave every day.
These products are great options as a starter kit for beginners or a great gift idea for the bearded man in your life.
Sometimes shaving kits will cost a lot less than purchasing the items individually. But with lots of options available, it can get confusing which one to select.
Don’t worry, I’ve done the research and present to you 11 of the best shaving kits available.
Take note that these options vary between safety razors, straight razors, and cartridge razors. I’ll go in detail on how these products are different later on so please scroll down to find out more.
What is the Best Shaving Kit for Men?
The best shaving kit right now based on our research is the Gentleman Jon Deluxe Wet Shave Kit. It contains a safety razor, shaving brush, stand, stainless steel shaving bowl, alum block, five Astra blades and shaving soap. Not only will you get these items, but you’ll also get a Canvas & Leather Dopp Kit Travel Bag to bring these items when you go on trips.
It’s a cheaper option than the Maison Lambert Ultimate Shaving Set that has the 10 Astra blades, pre-shave oil, and aftershave oil but doesn’t have the alum block or leather case. The choice between the two is a matter of preference.
If for some reason you prefer a cartridge razor then have a look at the Edwin Jagger shaving gift set. This kit comes with the Edwin Jagger razor body, one Gillette Mach 3 cartridge, shaving bowl, pure badger shaving brush, and a shaving stand. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with shaving cream or soap so you’ll have to buy one separately.
One reason why a shaving kit is ideal for beginners is that you’ll have everything you need.
Yes, it will cost more initially, but buying it bundled helps you save a few bucks.
It also, in a way, encourages you to shave using the right tools because everything is in there.
That domino effect makes shaving a more fulfilling endeavor rather than something dreadful.
Most guys start with a cartridge razor. My weapon of choice would be the Gillette Mach 3 because it’s a heck lot easier to clean and leave less irritation.
As you progress, there’s a tendency to impulse of shaving accessories, and soon enough you’ll have a mishmash of stuff that takes up space and doesn’t go well together.
Compare that to buying a shaving kit right off the bat. There are less clutter and more organization.
Before I present the best shaving kits, let’s get into the nitty-gritty in why you should trust this site, what to look for in a shaving kit, and the type of razor you should choose.
Check the table of contents below for an overview of this guide:
- Why Should You Trust Us?
- What To Look For In A Shaving Kit?
- What Type Of Razor Should I Get?
- Reviews of the Best Shaving Kits
- Other Things To Look At When Buying Looking
- The Verdict
Why Should You Trust Us To Recommend The Best Shaving Kit To You?
When you spend countless hours researching the best grooming products, you’ll know a thing or two about shaving.
We carefully look into the different facets of shaving, comparing different products such as the cartridge vs. safety razor, shaving creams, shaving soaps, shaving brushes, and much more.
If you look at those articles, it is detailed in explaining why the products are the best for a particular category and call out potential issues that could hinder performance.
That same attention to detail is applied to this article. We want to present to you the absolute best options that you can use or give as a gift to that special man in your life.
What To Look For In A Shaving Kit?
The contents of a shaving kit will vary. Some brands put in more stuff than the others.
To give you a baseline, a good shaving kit should have the following tools:
- Shaving brush: There different types of brushes please check this guide for more information.
- Razor: You’ll get to choose between a safety razor, straight razor or cartridge razor
- Shaving stand: Storage for the razor and shaving brush
- Shaving bowl: A must-have tool if you’re using a shaving soap or cream
A shaving kit with these four items is a decent option if you have a specific shaving cream you want to use.
There are options such as the GBS Gift Set that comes with shaving soap and an extra five pieces of DE blades.
The choice of how much or how little tools you’ll get will boil down to your preference.
If you don’t have any brand preference in terms of what shaving soap or blade to use, getting something that contains these items in addition to the four above is an excellent option.
What Type Of Razor Should I Get?
Most shaving kits sold online either come with a cartridge razor or a safety razor. Some have a straight razor (or a shavette), but these options are for the purists looking for the ultimate shaving experience.
The more popular option of the two is the cartridge razor because of its availability and the shallower learning curve.
Another reason why these products are so popular is smart marketing by companies such as Gillette, Dorco, and the Dollar Shaving Club.
Gillette has partnered with Edwin Jagger to sell shaving kits that use their cartridges that further help it increase visibility with consumers.
The biggest snag of a cartridge razor is the cost of ownership. When you compare this to a safety razor, it isn’t even close.
However, the initial cost of ownership is lower than a safety razor. But when you compare the price of refills, a cartridge razor will cost a few bucks, an excellent double-edged blade will cost less than ten cents.
Add that up over a lifetime, and the difference would be thousands of dollars.
On the flip side, the most significant advantage of a cartridge razor is convenience and availability. You just about buy this product in any pharmacy or gasoline station.
If you’re a busy executive who can’t spend 15 minutes shaving, a cartridge razor is a decent option.
Another advantage: you can bring a cartridge razor inside a plane since its plastic. Not so with a safety razor where you need to put it inside your check baggage.
Men who are budget conscious or have sensitive skin should go with a safety razor. The single blade will irritate less than a multi-blade cartridge.
There will be a steeper learning curve and expect some nicks along the way during the learning process.
But once you master the technique, a world-class shave can be had at the comfort of your home.
Lastly, some kits contain a straight razor. These kits are for the veteran shaver who wants to move up to the purest form of shaving – with a cut-throat razor.
Remember that straight razors are not for beginners, because the whole blade is exposed and any wrong swipe will result in a bloody mess.
However, once you learn the skill, it is a tool that can bring a Zen-like feeling when shaving. It requires the most skill and time, but it will cost the least over the long haul.
Reviews of the Best Shaving Kits
After extensive research, here’s the final list of the best shaving kits. Each review will outline what comes in the kit, the good and bad points and which offers the best value long term.
We have a separate list for kits with cartridge razors, safety razors and complete kits (one of which includes a straight razor!).
Best Shaving Kit With A Cartridge Razor
All these shaving kits use Gillette cartridge razors – either a Mach 3 or a five-blade Fusion ProGlide. One advantage of these kits is the heft of the razors. It has a right balance that will give you more control resulting in a better overall shave.
Grutti Premium Shaving Set
On style points alone, the Grutti Premium Shaving Set scores high.
The all-chrome finish screams luxury. If you live in an apartment where every square inch matters, have a long look at this option.
Not only is this shaving set beautiful, but it is also practical. You can store both the razor and shaving brush on opposite ends so that it air dries. The shaving bowl is secured in place with a magnet, so it doesn’t rock back and forth easily.
What makes this a good option?
- Excellent design and build quality
- The handle of the razor and shaving brush have non-slip properties
- Makes an excellent gift idea for gentlemen
Some potential issues
- The 5-blade cartridge may cause irritation
- Does not include extra blades or a shaving cream
- Complaints about quality control issues
Lots of consumers have bought this as a gift for their dads or boyfriends, and they couldn’t be happier with what they got.
Build quality is excellent, and the razor has a good weight distribution which is a pleasant surprise since cartridge razors are very light, and the tendency is to put more weight than needed.
The shaving brush comes from pure badger – one of the lowest grades. However, that shouldn’t discourage you since pure badger provides excellent exfoliation thanks to its stiff bristles.
Creating lather won’t be an issue because it has good ergonomics.
The difference between this and the traditional brush is the shape – it is square, not round.
Both the razor and shaving brush have a two-tone non-slip allow and wood grain finish.
This feature helps prevent the razor or brush from slipping off your fingers. It’s one of the more unique designs I’ve seen.
The razor itself uses a Gillette Fusion 5 cartridge and has the same contour following back and forth action.
If you’re an avid Gillette Fusion ProGlide 5 user, this may be a better option.
Edwin Jagger Shaving Gift Set
If you’re a long time wet shaver, chances are you’ve come across the Edwin Jagger brand.
They manufacture high-quality shaving products such as safety razors, shaving brushes, and more. To put simply, Edwin Jagger is a known brand even in the wet shaving community.
However, did you know that Edwin Jagger also sells a cartridge razor?
The Edwin Jagger Shaving Gift Set is one such product in their lineup.
Like the Grutti Set, you can store the razor, brush, and bowl on the shaving stand, which means space savings.
The stand itself has an exquisite nickel plated finish that’s elegant to look at and will look at home in most bathrooms.
What makes this a great option?
- The nickel plate finish looks exquisite
- Space-saving since the stand can hold the razor, shaving brush, and bowl
- Razor uses the Mach 3 blade which irritates less
Some potential issues
- Expensive for a set without any shaving cream or other extras
At first glance, you’d think that it is a safety razor, but it actually utilizes a cartridge head. You can use the Mach 3 or Mach 3 Turbo cartridges.
Unfortunately, this razor isn’t compatible with the Fusion 5 blades. You’ll have to go with the Grutti if you want to use a Fusion 5 blade.
The razor itself is well-balanced, which enables you to get a great shave without putting too much weight.
It combines the most significant benefits of a safety and cartridge razor into one.
The handle has the right balance of length and thickness
It does not have any knurling, so there’s a risk of it slipping from your fingers.
One technique that wet shavers use would be applying alum on their fingertips.
Like the razor, the shaving brush also has a faux ebony handle that will hold up well in damp conditions.
The bristles are pure badger so expect it to have excellent water retention, and it’ll help spread out shaving cream in-between your facial hair follicles.
GBS Premium Shaving Set
GBS is an actual barbershop and spa who specializes in selling shaving kits. Their selection is a mixture of the top brands such as Merkur and Gillette.
Some options include safety razors, cartridge razors, and even straight razors.
Unfortunately, their barbershop and spa are closing soon, but they still sell shaving products which I’ll be focusing on here.
This shaving set has the razor that’s compatible with the Gillette Fusion 5 blades. It’s the cheaper option to the Edwin Jagger, but it has better value since it comes with shaving soap.
What makes this a good option?
- A cheaper option than the Edwin Jagger that also comes with a shaving soap
- GBS backs this up with a money back guarantee
- The shaving brush has a resin handle that will last longer than cheap plastic or wood
- Shaving bowl is high-quality stainless steel
Some potential issues
- You can’t store the shaving bowl on the stand, so it’ll take up more space
The razor itself has a faux ivory handle that has a similar design as the Edwin Jagger version.
Unlike the plastic handle of a cartridge razor that’s as light as paper, the GBS razor has more heft that provides better control.
GBS shaving brushes aren’t as popular as the Perfecto or Parker brushes, but it is decent.
The bristles are 100% pure badger hair that holds water well and works excellent with any shaving soap or shaving cream.
What makes this shaving kit great value is the shaving soap that comes in the package.
Please read our guide on how to use a shaving soap for more information on the best practices.
Shaving soap is what our great grandfathers used when shaving creams weren’t invented. These products take more time to prep, but the lubrication it provides is second to none.
If you’re looking for a gift to your grandfather or dad, have a look at this.
Best Shaving Kit with a Safety Razor
These shaving kits are an excellent option for men looking to move up to using safety razors. You’ll get everything you need to start your wet shaving journey without breaking the bank.
Gentleman Jon Deluxe Wet Shave Kit
Gentleman Jon is known in the wet shaving community for their alum blocks, but they also sell shaving kits, and their Deluxe Wet Shaving Kit is a bargain, in my opinion.
Not exactly a beginners kit per se, but if you’re looking for a kit that covers all the basics, it’s hard to beat this kit.
What makes this a good option?
- Comes with all the necessary tools you need to wet shave
- Great value for money option
- The packaging is exquisite making this an excellent gift for men
Some potential issues
- Shaving bowl is on the small side but for the Gentleman Jon shave soap, it’s big enough
- There is a learning curve involved using the safety razor (please read our guides before using this kit)
Starting off, the Gentleman Jon kit has their bestselling alum block.
If you don’t know what an alum block is, it’s a crystal-like stone (or alum) that you use to rub post-shave to help relieve skin issues after shaving such as razor burn and cuts.
Alum is also a major component of styptic pens that stops razor induced bleeding.
This kit also comes with a sandalwood shaving soap and a three-piece safety razor with the Gentleman Jon branding on top.
Please check out our guide to wet shaving and how to use a shaving soap if you’re planning on getting this kit.
Consumers were happy with this kit and say that all the tools are of high quality.
The shaving bowl though is a bit small when you compare it to other brands, but as a starter kit, it is decent.
Merkur 180 5-Piece Shaving Kit
One of the best safety razor manufacturers is the Merkur, and if you’re looking for a shaving kit with this safety razor then this 5-piece kit is a good option.
Not only does it come with the German-made Merkur 180 (or the 23C), it also has the other essentials that you need to do a proper wet shave.
The 23C (or 180) is Merkur’s most popular razor thanks its long handle that gives you extra control. If you’re starting one with safety razors, it’s one of the best options available. Please read this review of the Merkur 23C to learn more about it.
What makes this a good option?
- Has the Merkur 23C safety razor which is one of the most popular options among enthusiasts
- Comes with the basic tools for a proper wet shave
- High-quality badger brush included in the package
Some potential issues
- More expensive than the Gentleman Jon Kit
- Some complaints about the shave stand leaning over
Here are a few things about the Merkur 23C that makes it a good beginner safety razor.
First, it has a closed comb design that adds a layer of protection from direct exposure to the blade. Having only one blade means there will be less irritation. The three-piece construction takes little more time to assemble and disassemble but is easier to clean.
The long 4” handle makes it comparable in length to cartridge razors which make the transition more seamless.
Another critical component in this kit is the shaving brush. It has used a pure badger, which is the lowest grade, but still great for exfoliating and providing rich lather.
The brush has a chrome plated finish which will resist corrosion well, but you’ll have to make sure to dry it up thoroughly after every use.
To properly lather the shaving soap, you’ll need a good shaving bowl that has enough depth, and the one included in the package will be up to the task. Don’t worry if you decide to switch to shaving cream for some reason, you’ll still be able to use the bowl.
Storing the razor and brush wouldn’t be a problem thanks to the chrome plated shaving stand. It has a wide enough opening to store shaving brushes of different sizes. So if you decide on purchase another brush, it won’t be an issue.
Rounding up this kit is the glycerin-based shaving soap that will provide excellent protection during shaving.
One disadvantage of this kind of shaving soap is that it dissipates quickly, so you may need to get some extra shave cream or soap.
Parker 96R Safety Razor Set
One of the more popular safety razor kits available right now is the Parker 96R Set.
This shaving set comes with Parker’s popular 99R butterfly safety razor.
Unlike other butterfly-open designs, the 99R is built with quality in mind using a brass frame and thicker hinges that hold up better over the long haul.
What makes this a good option?
- Parker is a respected brand know to produce high-quality safety razors and shaving brushes
- The 99R is a popular option in the tight nit wet shaving community
- A great choice for beginners
Some potential issues
- One of the more expensive kits
- No shaving bowl or shaving soap included
Parker is a popular brand in the wet shaving community known to manufacture high-quality products.
Their safety razors are among the popular ones in the market that’s mild enough for beginners to use with confidence.
The long handle of the Parker 96R mimics that of a cartridge razor. So if you’re thinking of transitioning to a safety razor, look no further than this shaving kit.
Having butterfly doors makes the process of loading and removing the blade easier.
Complementing the Parker 96R is the pure badger shaving brush. Even if this isn’t the top-of-the-line silvertip badger brush, it still performs well and is actually a better option for newbies who are just getting started.
The oversized bristles of a pure badger brush are stiffer that exfoliates better and will do an excellent job at creating lather. To put simply, this parker shaving brush is one of the best options available.
Another option if you prefer something more compact would be the Parker 29L set that comes with the cradle stand. It will offer similar performance for the same price.
Both of these come with the same pure badger shaving brush. However, this option comes with the Parker 29L safety razor that has the same butterfly design with different handle design.
Merkur Futur Adjustable Safety Razor Kit
Most of the options in this list are geared toward the beginner who’s just starting out their journey into traditional shaving.
However, there comes a time where feel the need to step up your game.
Not exactly an excellent option for beginners because of the high price and steeper learning curve.
The Merkur Futur Adjustable safety razor kit offers such option for men looking for an upgrade.
An adjustable razor is unique in that it gives you the option to modify the level of blade exposure depending on how close you want to shave.
What makes this a good option?
- An excellent option for men looking to upgrade their safety razor
- Shaving brush and razor have the excellent build quality and among the best in their respective categories
- Compact shaving stand will save you a lot of space
Some potential issues
- Glass shaving bowl is breakable so be careful when handling
- Expensive
Merkur produces some of the best adjustable razors, and the list includes the Progress and Futur.
An adjustable knob just below the neckline gives you six levels of blade exposure from mild to very aggressive.
This feature gives you the option to go with the more aggressive setting when your beard and mustache area then switch to a milder one on the more sensitive neck area.
You cannot find this type of flexibility on a regular safety razor, which makes this a unique option.
Pairing up with the Merkur Futur is the silvertip badger hair shaving brush.
A silvertip badger hair is the highest quality grade brush you can purchase. These brushes have the softest bristles which have excellent water retention and consistent lathering.
To make a creamy lather, Merkur also includes a shaving bowl. No, it’s not stainless but frosted glass – it looks fantastic!
The shaving stand, like the razor and brush, has a beautiful chrome mirror finish and has slots for the razor, shaving brush and shaving bowl.
One potential issue I see here is the shaving bowl cracking if it slips off the cradle that holds it in place.
Complete Shaving Kits With All The Essentials And Then Some
These shaving kits contain everything you need to get a great shave in your home. From the basic safety razor to DE blades, shaving creams or soaps and some even come with aftershave oil.
Royal Shave Black & Chrome Shaving Set (with the Merkur 20C)
One of the more premium options in this list is the Royal Shave Black & Chrome set.
It’s one of my favorite, not just the way it looks but also the functionality.
Everything included in this set is a high-quality product.
Let’s start with the razor, to be specific the Merkur 20C.
It’s one of Merkur’s mildest razors that will suit both expert and beginner alike.
What makes this a good option?
- Excellent quality razor and shaving brush
- The weighted base of the shaving stand prevents it from tipping over easily
- Silvertip badger brush is excellent for men with sensitive skin
Some potential issues
- Expensive option
- Does not come with an alum block or anything post shave
One strong point of this razor is the weight distribution – it has an excellent balance that allows you to shave without having to put too much weight on it.
Using the proper technique, you’ll get a smooth shave with minimal irritation and cuts.
Handle length is adequate enough to give you control. The knurling offers lots of grip to prevent the razor from slipping.
For the first few shaves, you won’t need to buy any blades because this kit comes with 5 Merkur blades.
The shaving stand complements the Merkur 20C thanks to the knurled portion at the middle. It has a weighted base that helps hold the brush and razor securely in place without tipping over when you use either one.
Creating lather for your shave can be done with ease thanks to the ceramic shaving bowl that has enough width and depth to handle just about any shaving cream or soap.
Rounding out the kit is the Sandalwood shave soap that will help the razor glide smoothly. The sandalwood scent is subtle, not overpowering, which is good if you want to use another aftershave scent.
Maison & Lambert Ultimate Shaving Kit
One of the most complete kits available is the Maison & Lamber Shaving Kit.
The first thing you’ll notice with this shaving kit is the packaging – it comes in a wooden cigar box!
If you’re looking for a gift for Father’s day, your old man will be thrilled to receive this.
Not only is the packaging outstanding, but the products you’ll get inside it are also equally of high quality.
First, let’s look at the safety razor. It is a two-piece safety razor with a combination horn imitation resin and chrome finish.
What makes this a great option?
- Wooden packaging will wow the man you’re giving it to
- One of the more complete shaving kits available
- Excellent value for money
Some issues
- Shaving stand does not look too sturdy and may easily tip over
Safety razors like the Merkur and Edwin Jagger usually have straight and narrow handles, but the Maison & Lamber handle is distinct with a thick middle portion that tapers down to a narrow base.
It’s not a traditional design so you’ll have to modify the grip a little bit to accommodate the extra heft.
You won’t need to buy blades for the first few months because this kit comes with ten Astra blades.
These blades are really sharp (sharper than a Personna blade) and great for men who want a really close shave.
The same two-tone finish is found with the shaving brush that uses pure badger hair.
While pure badger hair is the lowest grade, it does offer the best exfoliation because it’s stiffer.
There’s no special care needed with this brush since the bristles are pretty sturdy and will last a long time.
For a rich lather, you’ll need a good shaving soap, and that’s what Maison & Lamber had in mind when they included the 90% organic shaving soap inside this kit.
The shaving soap contains mostly organic ingredients such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, and unrefined shea butter.
All these ingredients combine not only to provide excellent lubrication, but it also nourishes and hydrates the skin, protecting it from the elements.
It does not contain any sulfates, petroleum or artificial fragrance, so you can confidently use this without worrying about breaking out.
The wooden shaving bowl screams classic and is pretty durable if you take proper steps to care for it.
To round up the kit, you’ll get a pre shave and aftershave oil that you can use before and after shaving.
Pre shave oil adds that extra layer of lubrication that you apply before the shaving soap or cream.
Aftershave oil protects the skin from the potential hazards post shave when the skin’s pores are open.
None of these products contain any chemical ingredients and is unscented.
Naked Armor Straight Shaving Set
Straight razors are the purest form of shaving you can possibly get. Men who have mastered the technique of using this tool say that it gives you a Zen-like feeling.
Clint Eastwood has done it, why don’t you try it?
Granted, this tool isn’t for beginners, but I’ve had a guide on how to use a straight razor, so please check it out.
Using a sharp piece of metal is how the ancients cut off their facial hair, and the invention of the straight razor is a result of it.
What makes this a good option?
- High-quality straight razor from Japanese stainless steel will last a lifetime
- Lifetime and money back guarantee
- Environmentally friendly you don’t throw away any plastic
Some potential issues
- Expensive
- Not for beginners
It’s the cheapest form of shaving when you compare it to using a cartridge razor.
A straight razor will last over 100 years if you take the proper steps to maintain it.
Compare it to a cartridge razor that ends up in a landfill after you dispose of it, this tool is environmentally friendly. Mother Earth will thank you for it.
At the heart of this kit is the Naked Armor straight razor made from Japanese stainless steel.
Anyone who knows a thing or two about straight razors will tell you that the Japanese make the best steel in the world.
Looking at this razor, the first thing you’ll notice is the high-quality finish. Naked Steels says it has a Biblical algum wood handle with two gold copper heads to you give the perfect symmetry.
The blade itself is set between half hallow and full hallow which combines the best properties of both to allow the blade to adapt to the contours of your face and cut as close as possible.
To help you create a rich lather, the kit comes with a badger friendly shaving brush with a wood handle.
The bristles are made from the future, and the handle is Swedish black wood that is very durable.
Shaving soap is what our grandfathers and great grandfathers use to shave.
It’s fitting that Naked Samurai adds an all-natural shaving soap with the following ingredients: milk, butter, and coconut oil to create a rich lather that moisturizes and protects skin during shaving.
To keep the blade sharp for the lifetime of the razor, you’ll get a leather strop and sharpening wax.
Colonel Conk 8-Piece Wet Shaving Kit
One of the most complete shaving kits available right now is the Colonel Conk 8-Piece Kit.
It has all the components that any man will need for a wet shave.
Central in this shaving kit is the Merkur 23C safety razor. Simply put, this razor is one of the best safety razors available right now.
The long handle of the 23C makes it suitable for men with bigger hands. It’s also an excellent tool for beginners looking to transition from a cartridge razor to a safety razor.
What makes this a good option?
- One of the more complete kits available
- Merkur 23C is a great option for beginners because of the mild design and long handle
Some potential issues
- Aftershave lotion contains alcohol
In addition to the Merkur 23C razor, this kit also comes with a pure badger shaving brush. Even it’s the lowest grade badger brush it will do a decent job at creating lather from the shaving soap.
One advantage that a pure badger has over a higher grade silvertip badger is that it’s stiff and more robust.
This type of brush will give you more exfoliation and requires less upkeep than the softer silver tip.
Colonel Conk even throws in 5 Merkur blades that you can use right off the bat.
You don’t need to buy a blade at least for the first two weeks or so depending on how often you change blades.
It also comes with a pre shave oil and aftershave cream, which we don’t recommend using because it has alcohol.
The pre shave oil is another matter as it contains carrier oils such as castor and almond oil that will benefit the skin and add a layer of protection.
Other Things To Look At When Buying Looking For The Best Shaving Kit
I’ve already discussed the importance of selecting the right type of razor and the basic requirements of a kit. Now let’s focus our attention at the miscellaneous stuff such as the shaving brush, aftershave, and pre shave oils.
Why A Pre Shave Oil Is Essential?
First, let me get this out of the way. Don’t mistake a pre shave oil for shaving cream. These are two different products.
What pre shave oil does is it assists in keeping the skin and facial hair moisturized during shaving.
This moisturizing and nourishing property is due to the ingredients in pre shave oil. Good brands contain carrier oils such as jojoba, argan or castor seed. These oils mimic our skin’s natural oil: sebum.
Aside from the moisturizing properties, oils such as tea tree oil are an antiseptic, meaning, it kills bacteria on your skin before a razor touches it, minimizing the risk of infection.
The primary job of pre shave oil is to add an extra layer of lubrication in addition to the shaving soap or cream.
If you want to learn more, we have a comprehensive guide about pre shave oils that you should look at.
Avoid Canned Shaving Creams
Even the best razor in the world will do squat if you don’t pair it with good shaving cream.
Shaving cream (or soap) and a safety razor are like peanut butter and jelly, you can’t have one without the other.
I’m not just talking about any canned Barbasol cream you find in Walmart, but a good quality shaving cream.
These products contain chemicals and alcohol that is not good for the skin.
As you drag a blade across your face, a thin layer of skin is taken off. It’s good for exfoliation, but if the product that’s supposed to protect your face contains alcohol, it will dry up the skin.
Dry skin is vulnerable to irritation. That’s where a quality shaving cream comes in. It not only provides lubrication, but it also moisturizes and nourishes skin regardless if you’re using a cartridge or a safety razor.
Good shaving creams such as the Castle Forbes Lime that contain natural ingredients such as Aloe Vera can minimize irritation even on a three-pass shave. Learn more about the Castle Forbes and other shaving creams in our in-depth review.
After Shave Is Also As Important
What you put on your face after shaving is equally as important.
It’s a misconception that an aftershave splash should be the default option. But that’s simply not true.
Using alcohol post shave isn’t what I consider to be pleasant. Shaving itself is already taxing to the skin, the last thing I want is to scream in agony because of the stinging sensation from the alcohol.
One alternative to an aftershave splash is an aftershave balm.
Unlike splashes that contain alcohol, balms do not, thus providing a more soothing feeling.
Aftershave balms provide the same benefits of aftershave but minus the alcohol.
These products will replenish the lost moisture and dryness thanks to its essential oil content.
The Verdict: What We Learned From Comparing The Best Shaving Kits
There are a lot of options when it comes to the best shaving kits. But our favorite of the bunch is the Gentleman’s Jon Wet Shaving Kit and the Merkur 5-Piece Kit. Both these kits offer quality products in their entire kits. The Gentleman Jon is a more complete set with the alum block and extra blades included.
If you’re looking for a cartridge razor set, check out the Grutti Premium Kit with the Gillette Fusion 5 cartridge. For men with sensitive skin, the Edwin Jagger kit is an excellent option with the Mach 3 blade.
Any of these kits will make an excellent gift idea for men whether it’s Christmas, Father’s Day or as a starter kit for yourself if you’re looking to upgrade.
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