The word pre-shave means the preparation before the actual shave, and it consist of some products that might be a help to prepare the beard and the skin so the shave becomes more comfortable.

If the products works is an individual assessment. Some people don't think they help at all, while others find them hard to live without.

Despite the personal view, I think some of the products can help heighten the experience of the shave, it is after all nice with a facial massage. My personal opinion is that it sometimes help, and in other cases it doesn't. Some soaps or creams can have a tendency to  make the blade "hang in" or "skip over" the skin, here a pre-shave cream or oil can help to get the blade to run smoothly across the skin.

I've also experienced that it can help in some cases where a soap or cream can give an irritating sensation on the skin if used directly, but if a pre-shave product is used it prohibit the irritation.

Of the products below, the two Proraso creams are my favourites, they work great. The pre-shave oil from Truefitt & Hill has a magnificent scent, but that is about all. I don't experience that it help for a smooth shave and in conjunction with some soaps I've experienced the exact opposite effect. It will take a long time for this bottle to be used, and I won't make a re-order.

Pre-shave creme

Proraso Pre-shave Cream with Aloe and Green tea

Pre-shave olie

I never really found the melody in this oil, so it is given away