I was using Em's pre-shave oil with my safety razors and seemed to like it. I started noticing my skin started to get "gummy" and the razor wasnt gliding very smoothly. I didnt want to use it with a straight. I saw a few threads of gents using skin food as a pre shave but I really didnt want to spend that much money. I found some "Now" brand vegetable glycerin at iherb.com for $5 (16oz). I put 4 or 5 drops in my shave mug and mixed up some lather. The lather is awesome - nice and thick with lots of water. The shave was nice and smooth with no oily fingers, brushes or razors. Give it a try as its cheap.