The aisles of beauty stores and drugstores alike are jam-packed with shaving creams and gels, razors, and trimmers—and with seemingly endless hair removal options, it can seem overwhelming. Shaving is one of the simplest methods for removing unwanted hair, but choosing the right products can be quite the task. That’s where the best shaving creams for women come into play, and luckily we’ve gathered a slew of expert-backed picks to choose from for your smoothest shave ever.
“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,” explains 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. “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.”
Shaving creams, gels, and lotions are extremely important, but “not all are created equal,” notes Robert Finney, M.D., board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Entière Dermatology. “Look for ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, and vitamin E, as these will help to restore the barrier that you are actively traumatizing with your razor.” Additionally, Dr. Finney notes that those with sensitive skin should search for a cream formula, which tends to be more hydrating than gels and foams, as well as look for hypoallergenic or fragrance-free products.
Whether you’re searching for the best shaving cream for sensitive skin and skin prone to razor bumps or ingrown hairs, or the best shaving gels for the bikini area or legs, we’ve rounded up the crème de la crème of products for every skin type, concern, and preference. Ahead, find top-rated, expert-approved, and editor-tested shaving creams for women.
How we chose the best shaving creams for women
We consulted Dr. Lal and Dr. Finney, countless customer reviews, and conducted our own research to find the best shaving creams for women available.
Our top picks