Shaving creams can now take many forms: lotions, oils and creams are all readily available, though they often have similar qualities. The primary use for a shaving cream is to protect your skin; your skin is soft and supple, and without a lubricant there will be high amounts of friction from the razor.
A dry shave without shaving cream is a surefire way to get redness, irritated skin and potentially ingrown hairs. You need to make sure your skin is protected when wielding the razor, and a quality shaving cream simultaneously protects the skin and moisturises the beard.
As well as the numerous benefits to the skin, shaving cream also makes the shaving process much easier. It allows you to effortlessly glide the razor between the hairs, and helps you keep track of any bits you may have missed.