Best Of Guide
Best Shaving Creams UK (2026)
6 creams that give a smooth, irritation-free shave — without the foam-in-a-can disappointment.
Why It's Worth Switching to a Proper Shaving Cream
Canned foam looks convenient, but it's mostly air and harsh detergents that strip the skin. A proper shaving cream — one that lathers with a brush — coats each hair in a protective layer, softens the stubble, and lets the blade glide rather than drag. The result: fewer nicks, less razor burn, and a genuinely closer shave.
If you're getting into traditional wet shaving, a good cream is the single biggest upgrade you can make. Even with a basic cartridge razor, a rich lather transforms the experience. Here are the six best shaving creams you can buy in the UK right now.
1. Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream -- ~£15
The UK benchmark. This cream lathers effortlessly into a thick, cushioning foam that protects the skin throughout the shave. The sandalwood scent is unmistakably masculine and lingers subtly afterwards. A tub lasts months — brilliant value.
2. Proraso Green Shaving Cream -- ~£10
An Italian icon. The green tube delivers a cooling, refreshing lather that wakes you up in the morning. It's slick enough for a close shave but gentle enough for daily use. The eucalyptus and menthol combo is especially welcome on warm mornings.
3. Cremo Original Shave Cream -- ~£12
This one breaks the rules — it doesn't lather heavily, but its ultra-slick formula is packed with lubricants that let the blade glide effortlessly. Ideal for men with sensitive skin who break out from traditional creams. A little goes a long way.
4. L'Occitane Cade Shaving Cream -- ~£22
A premium French offering that's become a cult favourite. The Cade cream is rich, protective and incredibly soothing — the kind of lather that makes a shave feel like a spa treatment. It performs beautifully with both straight razors and safety razors.
5. The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Cream -- ~£30
The premium option. This cream is dense and concentrated — a pea-sized amount creates enough lather for three passes. The scent is deeper and more complex than Taylor's, with added spice notes. It's pricey, but it's the one you'll reach for on a special occasion.
6. Nivea Men Sensitive Shaving Cream -- ~£6
Don't let the price fool you — this is an excellent cream for sensitive skin. It's formulated with chamomile and vitamin E, providing a gentle, comfortable shave without irritation. Available everywhere in the UK and a total bargain.
How to Get the Perfect Lather
Using a shaving brush is the best way to get a good lather — it lifts the hairs and works cream into the skin. If you don't have one, rub the cream between your palms and apply directly. Work it in circular motions, add a few drops of water to keep it slick, and you're ready.
Want a smoother result overall? Pair your shaving cream with a pre-shave oil to soften the beard further. It makes a real difference for men with thick, coarse stubble.
Shave Like a Pro in 4 Steps
1. Prep — Shower first or hold a warm towel over your face for 60 seconds.
2. Lather — Load the brush, then build a slick, wet lather on the face.
3. Shave — With the grain first, then across if needed. Short strokes only.
4. Finish — Rinse with cold water, pat dry, apply an alcohol-free balm.
A Note on Prep and Protection
Even the best shaving cream shouldn't be your only line of defence. Start with a proper pre-shave oil — a few drops massaged in before the cream massively reduces razor drag. And after shaving, skip the alcohol-heavy splashes; a soothing balm keeps the skin calm and prevents that tight, stinging feeling. The cream does the heavy lifting, but the surrounding routine decides whether your skin feels happy or angry.