When I first started shaving my head, I thought pre shave oil was grooming hype that these companies try to upsell you with.
But after some trial runs, I found out it’s all about how you pair it.
When I use pre shave oil with a lather bar, the hair softens quickly, the blade gets that smooth glide, and my scalp feels protected. Pair it with shaving cream, and it’s even better, less razor burn, less post-shave tightness, and skin that actually feels like it’s recovering.
The flip side?
On its own, it’s not as impressive.
Without a proper lather, it can leave a greasy film. And if you’re using a head shaving machine, that slickness can turn into clogged parts fast.
That’s why this breakdown covers the real pre shave oil pros and cons from a bald head perspective, so you’ll know when it’s worth the extra step and when it’s better left out of your shaving routine.
So, what exactly is Pre Shave Oil?
At its core, pre shave oil is a simple mix of carrier oils like
- jojoba oil
- almond oil
- castor oil
Blended with essential oils for scent and skin benefits.
Some formulas lean on lightweight oils that absorb quickly, while others have a richer feel to create more protection.
Think of it as your first layer of defense before the blade touches skin. It softens stubble, conditions the scalp, and creates a slick surface so your razor can glide with less friction.
Many shavers find that it bridges the gap where lather alone can fall short, especially if you’ve got sensitive skin or coarse regrowth.
It’s not the same as beard oil, which is designed to nourish facial hair and the skin underneath.
And while shaving cream builds a cushiony layer of lather, pre shave oil works underneath that layer to keep the skin moisturized and reduce tugging.
In a full shaving routine, it comes right after washing your scalp and before applying your shave soap or cream. Picture the process as a three-layer shield:
- Clean and hydrate skin
- Apply pre shave oil
- Lather with shaving cream or soap
That second step might seem small, but for many bald head shavers, it’s what turns an average shave into an irritation-free shave.
Should You Use Pre Shave Oil?
The short answer?
It depends on your skin type, your shaving setup, and how much you value comfort over speed.
If you’ve got sensitive skin, pre shave oil can be a lifesaver.
It creates a thin, protective barrier that helps prevent razor burn and irritation, especially when paired with a quality lather.
For dry skin, the added moisture can keep your scalp from feeling tight or flaky after the shave. And even if you’ve got oily skin, a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil can still help with glide without clogging pores, make sure you wash it off properly afterward.
It’s most worth it if you’re shaving your head daily or every other day. That constant exposure to a blade can take a toll on your scalp, and pre shave oil helps reduce that wear and tear. For facial hair, it’s a solid upgrade.
Still, with a bald head, the difference is often more noticeable because of the larger surface area and the need for consistent smoothness.
Where it can feel like overkill is in quick, low-maintenance shaves, like if you’re using clippers or an electric head shaver, in those cases, the oil doesn’t add much and can even gum up your equipment.
Bottom line
If you want your shave to be smoother, gentler, and more forgiving on your skin, pre shave oil is worth keeping in your kit. If speed is your top priority, you might be fine without it.
Pros of Using Pre Shave Oil
So many pros, I don't know where to start. But here is my experience with using pre shave oil in my shaving routine.
1. Better Glide for the Razor
When your blade moves over the scalp, even the smallest resistance can cause micro-cuts or irritation.
A thin layer of pre shave oil gives the razor a smooth path, helping it glide without dragging.
It’s like adding shock absorbers to your shave, less pressure, fewer nicks, and an all-around smoother shave.
2. Prevents Razor Burn and Skin Irritation
For bald head shavers, irritation isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s visible.
The right oil creates a protective barrier that keeps your scalp from feeling raw.
Paired with warm water and a good shaving cream, it can make razor burn a rare occurrence instead of a weekly battle.
3. Moisturizes While You Shave
A good pre shave oil is loaded with nourishing carrier oils like jojoba oil, almond oil, or grapeseed oil.
These keep the skin hydrated during and after the shave, so you don’t step out of the bathroom with that tight, dry feeling.
4. Softens Hair Follicles for Easier Cutting
Even a day or two of growth can feel coarse against the blade.
Pre shave oil softens stubble so it cuts cleaner and faster, meaning you don’t have to go over the same spot multiple times reducing the chance of irritation.
5. Versatile Pairing Options
One of my favorite parts about pre shave oil is how it plays with other products.
Use it under a lather bar or shaving cream, and it amplifies both glide and protection. If you prefer a safety razor, it’s even more noticeable.
6. A Little Goes a Long Way
Most of the time, just a few drops are enough for your entire scalp.
That means a single bottle can last months, making it one of the more cost-effective upgrades to your shaving routine.
Cons of Using Pre Shave Oil
I’ll be the first to tell you, pre shave oil has its place in a bald head shaving routine.
But like anything, it’s not perfect.
If you know the downsides going in, you can avoid the mistakes that make guys swear it off altogether.
1. Can Clog Pores if Not Washed Off
A good pre shave oil is designed to stick to your skin long enough to protect it.
The problem is, if you don’t wash it off properly after the shave, it can stick around too long.
Heavier natural oils, especially coconut oil, can trap dirt and dead skin, clogging pores and causing bumps.
If you’re prone to ingrown hairs or scalp acne, that leftover residue can be a nightmare.
Fix: Always finish with a gentle but thorough cleanse after your shave to remove any oily film.
2. Possible Breakouts for Oily Skin
If you already have oily skin, adding more oil can tip things over the edge.
Some carrier oils are comedogenic, meaning they’re more likely to block pores. Even lightweight oils can cause trouble if you’re not rinsing properly.
Fix: Look for non-comedogenic formulas with jojoba oil or grapeseed oil, and apply sparingly—just a few drops is enough.
3. Extra Step in the Routine
Let’s be real
Adding pre shave oil means adding time.
You’ve got to apply it, let it sit for a moment, and then layer your shaving cream or soap.
If you’re the kind of guy who’s in and out of the bathroom in under five minutes, this can feel like a drag.
Fix: Save the oil for your slower, more thorough shaves, like before an important meeting, date night, or any time you want your scalp feeling extra smooth.
4. Oily Residue on Razors
Because pre shave oil is slick, it can leave a coating on razor blades.
Over time, that buildup can make the blade less effective and harder to rinse, especially in safety razors.
Fix: Rinse your razor more often during the shave, and give it a deep clean after every few uses if you’re using oil regularly.
5. Quality Variations
Not all pre shave oils are created equal. Some are packed with cheap filler oils that offer little benefit to your skin.
Others load up on artificial fragrance, which might smell good but can cause irritation.
Fix: Stick to reputable brands with simple ingredient lists—preferably with natural ingredients like almond oil, jojoba oil, or castor oil.
6. Fragrance Sensitivity
Essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus can be refreshing for some.
Still, if you’ve got sensitive skin, they can be a one-way ticket to redness and irritation.
Fix: If your scalp reacts easily, go for fragrance-free oils or ones with very subtle scent profiles.
Bottom Line on the Cons
For me, the drawbacks don’t outweigh the benefits, but I use pre-shave oil smartly.
I stick to lightweight, non-comedogenic blends, apply only a few drops, and pair them with a solid shaving routine.
If you treat it as a precision tool instead of an everyday crutch, you’ll dodge most of these issues and still get the payoff of a smooth, comfortable shave.
Should You Oil Your Hair Before Shaving?
If you’re shaving your head, you’re not dealing with long hair, obviously, you’re dealing with stubble.
And that stubble can be surprisingly tough.
The goal of applying pre shave oil isn’t to nourish hair like a conditioner, it’s to soften those short, coarse hairs so your razor can cut through them with less resistance.
The magic happens when you pair the oil with warm water. Warm water opens up your pores and relaxes the skin, while the oil penetrates around the hair follicles.
This combo not only softens the stubble but also creates a thin protective barrier over the scalp, letting the blade glide more smoothly. It’s one of the easiest ways to get closer results while avoiding razor burn.
That said, this step isn’t always necessary.
If you’re using clippers or an electric head shaver, the oil can actually work against you, making the machine slip or clog. You might also skip it if you’re in a rush or if your skin is naturally oily and prone to breakouts.
For traditional wet shaves with a safety razor or cartridge razor, though?
Oiling before you shave can be the difference between a decent shave and the kind of smooth, irritation-free finish you actually look forward to.
How Long to Leave Pre Shave Oil On?
With pre shave oil, timing matters.
Leave it on too short and you miss the benefits; leave it on too long and it can start feeling greasy, especially if you’ve got oily skin.
The sweet spot for most bald head shavers is 30 seconds to 2 minutes. That’s just enough time for the carrier oils to start working into the skin and soften your stubble, while creating that protective barrier your razor needs.
Here’s my routine:
I apply the oil right after rinsing my scalp with warm water.
Then I let it sit while I prep my shaving cream or lather bar.
By the time the lather’s ready, the oil has done its job, and I can start shaving with maximum glide.
If your skin tends to be oily, don’t let the oil sit too long; extra time can make your scalp feel slick and increase the risk of clogged pores. Keep it short and follow with a proper cleanse after your shave for the best results.
Should I Use Shave Oil Before or After Shaving?
Pre Shave oil is designed to be used before you shave...it’s the “pre” in pre shave oil.
Its job is to soften stubble, protect the skin, and give your razor a smooth glide.
Apply it after washing your scalp and before adding shaving cream or soap for the best results.
There is such a thing as after-shave oil, but it’s a completely different product. Those formulas are made to soothe and hydrate skin once the shave is done, often with lighter oils or skin-calming ingredients like aloe vera.
Using a pre shave oil after your shave isn’t a great move. It’s heavier by design, so instead of absorbing quickly, it can leave an oily residue that attracts dirt and clogs pores, especially if you’ve got oily or sensitive skin.
Bottom line: keep pre shave oil in the prep stage, and if you want extra post-shave hydration, reach for a proper after-shave oil or balm that’s meant to absorb cleanly.
Pre Shave Oil vs Shaving Cream (and Why You Might Use Both)
Pre shave oil and shaving cream might seem like they’re doing the same job, but they actually work in different ways.
Pre shave oil focuses on glide and skin protection. It softens stubble, conditions the scalp, and creates a thin, slick layer so your razor can move smoothly. It’s your first line of defense against razor burn and nicks.
Shaving cream, on the other hand, is all about cushion and hydration. A quality cream builds a rich lather that lifts hair away from the skin and adds an extra barrier between your blade and your scalp. It keeps moisture locked in during the shave, which helps prevent post-shave dryness.
For bald head shavers, the “soap or shaving cream” debate often comes down to personal preference. Soap can deliver a clean, slick surface, while cream offers a thicker cushion. Both benefit from the prep that pre shave oil provides.
Here’s where the real magic happens, layering. Apply a thin layer of pre shave oil first, let it sit for 30–60 seconds, then work in your shaving cream over the top. The oil works underneath to keep skin protected and stubble soft, while the cream delivers that plush, irritation-free finish.
The result?
A closer shave with less blade pressure, fewer passes, and a scalp that feels smooth and comfortable—not raw when you’re done. More information on Pre shave oil vs Cream.
Final Verdict: Is Pre Shave Oil Worth It?
After testing pre shave oil in just about every bald head shaving scenario, my answer is yes it’s worth it.
But only if you use it right.
The pros are hard to ignore: better razor glide, softer stubble, less irritation, and built-in hydration.
It can turn an average shave into a smooth, comfortable experience, especially when paired with a quality lather bar or shaving cream.
The cons are real, too.
It can clog pores if you don’t wash it off, feel greasy if overused, and add extra time to your routine. The wrong formula—or too much fragrance—can also trigger irritation.
Who gets the most out of it?
Guys with sensitive skin, frequent shavers, and anyone who struggles with razor burn.
If you shave daily or every other day, it’s one of the best insurance policies you can add to your shaving routine.
If you want my full breakdown and product recommendations, check out my guide, Best Pre Shave Oil for Bald Heads, where I cover the top picks, real-world tests, and how to make pre-shave oil work for you every time.