The expenses of our wellness routine can add up and add up quickly! Between the myriad of products designed for our hair and skin, our shower caddies are threatening to collapse under the weight.
Luckily, there are a couple of ways to cut costs and minimize the products in our routines. One of these products is shaving cream. When looking for shaving cream substitutions, there are a few products you likely already have in your home that can serve as suitable stand-ins without our skin suffering.
We spoke with a skincare expert on what to use instead of shaving cream and came up with five excellent alternatives that will leave your skin feeling silky smooth — without costing you an extra penny.
Coconut oil
While traditionally a product you may find in the kitchen, coconut oil has many benefits (both internally and topically). Whether coconut oil is used for frying or baking, tooth pulling, or your next hair mask, it is a genuinely versatile product to have in your home, especially for your shaving needs.
Dr. Stacy Chimento, a board-certified Miami dermatologist of Riverchase Dermatology, praises the use of coconut oil as a replacement for shaving cream. She claims it “is a good substitute for shaving cream because it will protect your skin and it is very moisturizing.” Best of all, Dr. Chimento says coconut oil “contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent razor burn from taking place. It also will not clog your pores or make your skin feel greasy.”
Is coconut oil for everyone? No. Dr. Chimento advises against using coconut oil as a shaving cream substitute if you have acne-prone skin.
Aloe vera
Another shaving cream substitute recommended by Dr. Chimento is aloe vera. According to Dr. Chimento, the “jelly-like, thick texture of aloe vera gives your skin a slick surface that allows the razor blade to glide smoothly on the skin without damage.” Along with providing a smooth surface for your razor blade, aloe vera will also moisturize the skin, leaving it hydrated and dewy. Aloe vera may “help you stay clear of irritated skin and promote the growth of new skin cells,” says Dr. Chimento.
Aloe vera gel can be purchased online or at a wide variety of grocery and department stores and pharmacies. You can also use fresh aloe from a plant.
Is aloe vera for everyone? Do not topically apply aloe vera if you have an allergy to onions, garlic, or tulips.
Body lotion
A product you likely have underneath your bathroom sink right now, body lotion, can also be used to replace shaving cream. “The creamy, thick formula can help you get an excellent shave without irritating your skin,” says Dr. Chimento. “Body lotion offers a smooth barrier between the skin and the razor blade and will leave your skin feeling soft.” However, Dr. Chimento advises against rubbing the lotion into your skin, as this will reduce the protective barrier between your skin and the razor as your body absorbs the formula.
Is using body lotion for everyone? While body lotion is traditionally a universally safe product, each person should topically spot-test individual lotions before layering it on their skin. Every body lotion can have ingredients that may cause skin irritation.
Shea butter
An oil derived from the shea tree seed, shea butter can allow for a very close shave, leaving your skin incredibly smooth and free of unwanted stubble. Additionally, “the anti-inflammatory properties (of shea butter) help reduce swelling, redness and soothe your skin,” said Dr. Chimento. “Shea butter also creates a soft and smooth barrier that helps seal in moisture, preventing your skin from feeling dry after you shave,” she added. “The antioxidant nutrients in Shea Butter will also help the skin generate healthy new cells.”
Is shea butter for everyone? Shea butter is a great, low-risk product to use as a shaving cream substitution. However, those with tree nut allergies should be cautious as there’s still a potential for a reaction (even if rare).
Bar soap
In a bind and need to remove unwanted hair? Your bar of soap may be the perfect alternative. Whether you’re traveling, out of product, or need a quick fix to touch up some hair growth, grab your bar of soap. Some soaps contain irritating ingredients or fragrances, but most traditional soaps (especially those for sensitive skin) can do an excellent job of lathering and moisturizing your skin to prepare for a razor. Even better, when picking out a bar of soap, look for clean products (like those recommended by Dr. Chimento (coconut oil, aloe vera, and shea butter) that have positive effects on the skin.
Is using a bar of soap shaving for everyone? Like body lotion, bars of soap are universal in use and consist of many different types of ingredients. Purchase a bar that works for your skin and spot test beforehand. If your skin is more sensitive and prone to razor burn, consider using one of the other mentioned alternatives.
BlissMark provides information regarding health, wellness, and beauty. The information within this article is not intended to be medical advice. Before starting any diet or exercise routine, consult your physician. If you don’t have a primary care physician, the United States Health & Human Services department has a free online tool that can help you locate a clinic in your area. We are not medical professionals, have not verified or vetted any programs, and in no way intend our content to be anything more than informative and inspiring.
