OK, I confess. I used to use soap as a shaving cream. After less than stellar results — and a rapidly depleting supply of Band-Aids — I've changed my ways.

Lately I've been loving Philosophy Razor Sharp Shaving Gel [1] ($18). It's got much better slip, and it isn't quite as drying as the ol' bar of soap routine. What's your shaving preference?

Source [2]