10 Best Shaving Gels for Men UK 2024 | Bulldog, Clinique and More
Whether you prefer foaming or non-foaming, gels are much kinder to sensitive skin, and unlike shaving cream, they don’t require a brush to apply! In this article, we impart advice on how to maximise shaving results by helping you choose the best gel, as well as sharing our picks from Amazon, Boots and John Lewis including top brands such as Clinique, Acqua di Parma and Bulldog.
Quick List - Top Shaving Gels for Men
Milkman
A Soap-Free Sensitive Gel That Promises to Change Your Life
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How to Choose a Shaving Gel for Men in the UK - Buying Guide
When shopping online, shaving gel advertisers all promise an immaculate shave. But how do you know which one is right for you? Our buying guide is here to help you discern specific performance-boosting key ingredients, what makes a shaving gel suitable for your skin type, and the benefits of both foaming and non-foaming gels.
Buy a Shaving Gel That Suits Your Skin Type
Choosing a shaving gel that works with your skin type will make a huge difference when it comes to achieving that clean, close shave you desire. Men’s skin can be generally categorised into one of three types, which we will describe below.
Men With Dry Skin Should Look for Hydrating Emollients and Exfoliants
Avoid astringent-based shaving gels that contain harsher ingredients like alcohol or witch hazel which cause further drying of the skin.
Astringents and Glycerin-Based Gels Can Help Oily Skin
Oily skin produces excess sebum which can clog pores, putting oily-skinned gents at a greater risk of acne and ingrown hairs.
If this is you, astringents such as alcohol and witch hazel won’t be an issue as they do a great job of stripping dirt and oil preventing pores from clogging. You equally won’t want heavy moisturisers, so look for glycerin-based gels instead.
Guys With Sensitive Skin Should Seek Dermatologically-Tested Products
We advise looking for shaving gels specifically aimed at sensitive skin as they often contain soothing, dermatologically-tested ingredients to be as mild as possible.
Check for Key Ingredients That Soothe the Skin and Prevent Razor Burn
Some great moisturising ingredients to look for are glycerin and aloe vera. Glycerin acts as an emollient and is suitable for all skin types. It attracts and locks in moisture without clogging the pores, preventing acne and ingrown hairs.
The gel of the aloe vera plant has been used medicinally for centuries to treat a myriad skin conditions. Aloe gel contains plenty of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and amino acids that produce soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Naturally-occurring salicylic acid exfoliates away dead skin cells, leaving your face feeling baby smooth!
Consider Foaming Vs Non-Foaming Shaving Gels
However, foam isn’t always better. A non-foaming shaving gel creates less friction, giving a smoother glide. Moreover, the absence of big, fluffy dollops of foam allows you to see everything clearly and won’t clog up your razor, especially if you use a multi-blade model.
Try to avoid shaving gels that contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). SLS is an ingredient commonly used to produce lather and foam in personal care and grooming products. While it leaves your skin feeling ‘squeaky clean’ this isn’t always a good thing! SLS is a known skin irritant that strips the skin of its natural oils which can cause dryness and unwanted skin reactions.
Top 10 Best Shaving Gels for Men in the UK
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Bulldog Original Shave Gel | | Best Overall Shaving Gel for Men | |
2 | Primal Earth Refresh Shave Gel | | A Naturally-Healing Gel for Dry and Sensitive Skin | |
3 | Elemis Ice Cool Foaming Shave Gel | | Best Antibacterial Shaving Gel for Healing Inflammation | |
4 | Milkman Razor Rail! Premium Clear Shaving Gel for Sensitive Skin | | A Soap-Free Sensitive Gel That Promises to Change Your Life | |
5 | King C. Gillette Transparent Shaving Gel | | Best Clear Shaving Gel for Precision Sculpting | |
6 | Harry's Men's Foaming Shaving Gel | | A Cushioning Gel for a Soft, Smooth Shave | |
7 | Molton Brown African Whitewood Razor-Glide Shaving Gel | | Best Scented Shaving Gel for Men | |
8 | Clinique For Men Aloe Shave Gel | | Packed With Aloe Vera for a Comfortable Shave | |
9 | Acqua di Parma Barbiere Shaving Gel | | A Premium Shaving Gel That Doubles as a Moisturiser | |
10 | King of Shaves Antibacterial Shave Gel | | An Affordable Essential for Spot-Prone or Oily Skin |
Best Overall Shaving Gel for Men
This is a great option for guys who want a quality shave without having to spend a fortune. Packed with 8 essential oils, including antioxidants camelina oil and green tea extract, the quality of this vegan, cruelty-free product certainly outweighs the low price.
A Naturally-Healing Gel for Dry and Sensitive Skin
Made in New Zealand, Primal Earth utilises the native Harakeke Flax for its robust anti-inflammatory and humectant properties. Extremely effective on sensitive skin, it helps to heal cracked and damaged skin through the promotion of collagen and elastin that support the regeneration of new skin cells.
Best Antibacterial Shaving Gel for Healing Inflammation
The welcome inclusion of soothing aloe vera gel prevents this product from being too harsh and medicinal. This shaving gel comes in a pressurised container which froths even a pea-size amount into a generous mound of foam without the need for a shaving brush and bowl.
Milkman Razor Rail! Premium Clear Shaving Gel for Sensitive Skin
A Soap-Free Sensitive Gel That Promises to Change Your Life
Milkman Grooming Co.’s Razor Rail! Premium Clear shaving gel is the perfect match for guys who have to shave a lot! Whether you are a daily shaver or into a bit of manscaping, the hefty 500 ml bottle gives approximately 100 applications when using 2 to 3 pumps per shave.
Soap-free, highly moisturising and lubricating with mild ingredients that are incredibly gentle on sensitive skin, you can use this life-changing shaving gel with or without water. Just pump the gel and apply where needed. Once you’re done shaving, use a flannel or washcloth to wipe off the excess.
Best Clear Shaving Gel for Precision Sculpting
This non-foaming crystal-clear gel has been specially formulated for shaving and edging, offering maximum visibility for those who favour precision shaving and beard sculpting. For a step up from your regular supermarket gel or cream, this is a great mid-range buy.
A Cushioning Gel for a Soft, Smooth Shave
Plus, it uses a distinct combination of naturally-active ingredients such as aloe, cucumber, willow bark and bergamot which are combined to achieve a comfortable, smooth finish with a great fragrance. Lots of guys with sensitive skin swear by this gel, having ditched their previous brands without looking back.
Molton Brown African Whitewood Razor-Glide Shaving Gel
Best Scented Shaving Gel for Men
Molton Brown work with perfumers to create exciting and unique herbal scents, with this gel in particular boasting base notes of musk and sandalwood blended with mandarin and African whitewood extract – perfect for those seeking a more aromatherapy-like experience when shaving.
Packed With Aloe Vera for a Comfortable Shave
Intensely hydrating, this shaving gel softens the skin to help you achieve a close, nick-free shave. Clinique’s totally oil-free, lightweight formulation is even good news for oily-skinned gents as you won’t have to worry about any residual greasiness.
A Premium Shaving Gel That Doubles as a Moisturiser
With the highest price point on the list, this shaving gel may be a little steep for some wallets. This is due to the prioritisation of premium ingredients such as organic basil, lemon and pomegranate extracts that protect from razor burn while emitting a classic, luxury fragrance. So if cost is not an issue, we highly recommend it!
An Affordable Essential for Spot-Prone or Oily Skin
This clear, non-foaming shaving gel provides an invisible barrier to enhance razor glide and contains both aloe and tea tree to soothe whilst it gets to work. Found in almost every drugstore or even the corner shop, this is a cheap and cheerful option, albeit not one for every skin type.
Good Shaving Technique Results in a Perfect Shave
When you are ready to start shaving, apply your shaving gel of choice to the area you wish to shave. Always use a clean, sharp blade and shave using short strokes against the direction of your hair’s growth. Once you’re all done, rinse your face with cold water and slap on a bit of moisturiser to leave your face feeling nice and soft, ready for the day ahead!
Stock Up on More Men's Grooming Essentials
Ready to re-haul your grooming regime this year? Even changing something as simple as your shaving gel, aftershave or razor to one that's better suited to your skin's needs can make a big difference to how you look and feel. Find more of our recommendations below. Happy days!
Summary
Author: Wren Mann
Top 5 Shaving Gels for Men
No. 1: Bulldog｜Original Shave Gel
No. 2: Primal Earth ｜Refresh Shave Gel
No. 3: Elemis｜Ice Cool Foaming Shave Gel
No. 4: Milkman ｜Razor Rail! Premium Clear Shaving Gel for Sensitive Skin
No. 5: King C. Gillette｜Transparent Shaving Gel
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.