Earlier this summer, Jeff told me that he had an idea to use oil for shaving. Jeff’s a creative guy, and he’s always coming up with new ideas or different ways to use familiar things. He thought oil would make his skin soft and would give him a closer shave. Then he said he came up with a bunch of reasons why he thought it wouldn’t work, and he talked himself out of it.
What a surprise when I received a package filled with a variety of English Shaving Oils from Somersets just a week later! Jeff was sad that someone beat him to the punch, but then he had given up on his idea before doing anything about it. Of course, to make him feel better, I asked him to try out the oils along with me.
Somersets sent me their complete lineup of 100% natural shaving oils for women and for men.
For women, there are two oils:
For men, there are three oils:
- Maximum Glide Original English Shaving Oil
- Maximum Glide Extra Sensitive English Shaving Oil
- Maximum Glide Tough Stubble English Shaving Oil
The oils come in two sizes:
- 15 ml/0.5 fl. oz. $6.99
- 35 ml/1.2 fl. oz. $14.99
I received the smaller size. Not only are they great for travel or putting in a gym bag, they still last a long time. You only need to use a few drops applied to wet skin. They recommend 3-5 drops per leg and on the bikini line, and 1-2 drops per underarm. Just a little bit of oil does the trick.
What’s the difference among the different varieties of shaving oil? I looked carefully at the ingredient lists, and some of the oils have slightly different ingredients or the ingredients are in different orders. To me, they feel the same to the touch. They may have slightly different natural fragrance in them, but the scent is very subtle because you use so little that I can’t tell the difference.
Our Experiences with Somersets English Shaving Oil
So, what did Jeff think? In spite of the fact that he thought “his idea” wouldn’t work, he LOVES Somersets English Shaving Oil. So far, he has used Original and also Tough Stubble. He liked them both He said it gives him the closest shave he’s ever had: much closer than using traditional shave cream, shave gel or Dr. Bronner’s soap. Also, he said his skin is the smoothest it’s ever been. I can attest to that!
I’ve been using Extra Sensitive for Legs and Underarms, and truth be told, I’ve used it on the bikini line as well. Just like Jeff, I can truly say that Somersets Shaving Oil gives me the closest shave I’ve ever had. Also, using it on my legs, I don’t need to apply body lotion or oil immediately after showering if I don’t want to because my legs feel so soft. And for use on the bikini line, it’s a bit of a miracle. Shaving with regular shave gel, I always end up with bumps. Using either one of the Somersets women’s shaving oils prevents those bumps. It’s a revelation!
Somersets Background, Mission and Products
Somersets was started in 1991 in Henley-On-Thames in Oxfordshire, England. Their mission was to deliver “the world’s most comfortable shave”. People hate shaving. It can be time-consuming as well as painful, in some cases. They wanted to make it better, and to do so, they decided to use only the best ingredients which is why the oils contain only the best natural essential oils.
What was most interesting to me was that Somersets said that the big shaving companies have spent lots of money to convince us that it’s the blade, meaning the number of blades, that makes for the closest, best shave. In fact, Somersets states that if you talk to a professional barber who usually uses a traditional single blade, it’s “how you prepare the skin” that’s most important and gives the best shave. So that’s what Somersets set out to do.
Somersets’ blends of natural essential oils moisturize your skin as you shave and lubricate your razor’s blades. This helps prevent razor bumps, razor burn and irritation, and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.
Somersets has a terrific website that is actually enjoyable to visit. It’s chock full of interesting information about shaving, their extensive product line and how to use their products. In fact, in addition to shaving oil, Somersets makes two soap-free shaving gels that are made with natural ingredients like aloe vera and tea tree oil. They also make pre- and post-shaving skincare products for men.
I love shaving with Somersets oil. But my only nitpick is that the oil clogs up my 5 blade razor, and it can be a bit of a chore to clean it out while in the shower. I like to clean my razor blade after each shaving area, and I do it by holding it under the shower head. Because the blades are so darn close together, it’s tricky to get the oil out. So I put a little soap or shampoo on it and then run it under the water. Jeff who shaves at the sink with a multi-blade razor doesn’t have any issues at all. Go figure.
You can buy Somersets English Shaving Oils and their other products on the Somersets website, and at Walgreens.
I think this is a great new way to shave. Would you consider trying shaving oil?
I have used oils underneath my shaving cream for a few years now. When I am in a rush I skip the step but I definitely get a smoother shave when I use oil. I have tried to get the hubster to try it but I cannot get him interested.
You’re so smart, Laura, to come up with that tip! Somersets claims that the oil prepares the skin and sets up the hair so the blades can get it more easily – makes sense to me. Hope you can get your husband to give it a go. It definitely works!
I love shaving oils! These sound well worth trying. I love that Jeff had the idea to shave with oils!
Lola Seicento recently posted…HOURGLASS Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick & Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Brush | Review and Swatches
It was such a coincidence, Helen, that he told me about his idea and then I received these lovely oils just a few days afterwards!
Me, too, Helen. He is clever sometimes, that guy. I’m not surprised that you’re already into shaving with oils. How do you keep your razor from getting clogged?
I actually ran out of my shaving oils, but there are oils that you can brush on the blades to keep them gunk-free and sharp. I will have to dig around to see if I have any left to get you the name.
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Now that’s very interesting, Helen! If you still have it, I would be very curious. I only use a few drops of shaving oil but it gets stuck in the 5 blade cartridge and my shower head water isn’t quite strong enough to get it out easily on its own
I found it! It’s Bikini Soft Razor Saver Oil. Here is my review link for all of the product information. <3
http://www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com/2014/05/bikini-soft-shave-oil-and-razor-saver.html
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Thank you so much, Helen, for finding the link for me. I read your review, and the first product sounded similar to what I’m using. It seems like the Razor Saver Oil prevents the blades from rusting. My problem is that the oil clogged the 5 blade cartridge. Maybe the first product is a thinner oil than what I used. At any rate, it sounds like its worth a try! Thanks again xoxo
I have actually brushed the razor blade oil before I shave and razor clogging shaving products seem to slip off more easily.
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Thank you, Helen, for explaining how to use it. Now that makes sense. I’m going to look for the razor saving oil. It’s worth a try.
I’m impressed. It’s a new product to me but one I’d buy. My underarms get so itchy and maybe this would stop it. I hope I remember to look for it.
I think it could help itchy underarms. I think you might find Somersets English Shaving Oil at Walgreens
I’ve never tried oils for shaving. Sounds good!
Phyrra recently posted…Jouer Long Wear Lip Creme Liquid Lipsticks Review
It is really worth trying especially if you have sensitive skin!
I thought that I knew every good shaving tool on the market but this sounds fantastic.There’s nothing like a smooth shave.
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Yes, this was a surprise to me too. But it makes sense to prepare the skin/hair rather than worry about the blades!
Sometimes i use oil when I shave, others, body wash but I never thought about layering them! These shave oils sound nice. I wouldn’t get my husband to use them, tho. He’s die hard on his shave cream.
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The layering them idea is interesting coz maybe that would prevent the clogged blades, but Somersets is into staying away from drying soap for some reason. Nevertheless, I will try your idea!
I tried this once and was very impressed.
Cindy (Prime Beauty) recently posted…NUDESTIX Lip and Cheek Pencil Duo: Drop the Mic!
I’m glad you like it too!
I love to use oils to shave! The L’Occitane almond shower oil is my go-to!
Julie recently posted…House of Lashes Mini Collection
Sounds lovely, Julie! I adore almond scent
This sounds like something I can benefit from. I haven’t tried them, but I do use oils for shaving because if I do not, my underarms get really sensitive and burn. I’ll check these out
Honeygirlk recently posted…Keeping My Kids Energized for School & Sports With CLIF Kid
They are definitely worth a try, Honey!
What a great idea! I’ve shaved with hair conditioner for the longest time after a hair dresser recommended it, but I am definitely going to try oil.
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It’s definitely worth trying, Bailey!
I can’t believe I’ve never heard of using oils to shave? It sounds brilliant though!
I hadn’t heard of it either, Lauren, but now I’m a believer!
Oooh, I want to get some of these for my boyfriend to try!
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I think he would like the smooth comfortable shave they give. And you’d love how soft his face is after shaving!
I wouldn’t mind giving it a try using shaving oil…I have used hair conditioner which works just as good in my opinion esp for dry/sensitive skin areas!
Ursula
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I think you’d like it. Try it with some hair oil that you already own!
I used to shave using a shaving cream, but then I stopped using it and switched to Somerset Original for Men. The scent doesn’t bother me at all, I like how it feels cool and fresh on my skin after shaving. Have you ever made a review using a different shaving oil for men and women?
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James, I’ve used both and they’re the same. I need to go back and revisit this post from the summer ‘coz I thought I said that. My significant other uses them too and he doesn’t care which he uses. Glad to hear you’re a fan too!