Cream, gel or shaving soap: which should you choose?

The choice between gel, cream or shaving soap directly influences comfort and the quality of your shave. A shaving gel, with its transparent texture, allows you to see exactly where you’re shaving—practical for shaping contours and ideal for quick daily shaves. Shaving cream, richer and more cushioning, provides a smooth glide and protects the skin from irritation with its enveloping texture. It’s the perfect option for sensitive skin or coarse beards. Shaving soap, ideally used with a brush, continues the tradition of classic men’s shaving: it creates a dense, rich lather that softens hair deeply while preparing the skin.

At L’Occitane en Provence, Cade Shaving Gel and Cade Shaving Soap are formulated with the Maison’s iconic masculine ingredient, with aromatic woody notes and soothing properties. To find out more about our shaving products, read our advice on how to get the best men's shaving routine.

Which after shave should you use to soothe the skin?

After shave is an essential step to soothe, hydrate and restore comfort after shaving. After shave balm, with its rich, creamy texture, is particularly suitable for dry or sensitive skin: it nourishes deeply and provides lasting relief from tightness. Gel cream, lighter and fresher, gives an instant toning sensation—ideal for combination to oily skin or busy mornings. L’Occitane en Provence offers both textures in several fragrance worlds: the sparkling freshness of Cédrat, the woody elegance of Cèdre Encens, the aromatic accord of Lavande Poivre Noir or the soothing notes of Cade.

To extend your ritual, finish with your usual men's facial care, chosen for your skin type.

How to avoid irritation and ingrown hairs?

A few simple steps help minimise irritation and razor burn. Start by cleansing your skin and beard with lukewarm water, ideally using an exfoliating facial cleanser to remove dead skin and reduce ingrown hairs. Apply your shaving product generously and allow it to work for a few seconds to soften the hair. Shave in the direction of hair growth with a clean blade, avoiding multiple passes over the same area. Finish with a balm or after shave gel to soothe the skin immediately.

To discover our full range, explore all our men's care.