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| Image courtesy of Stuart Miles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
In general, shaving creams offer a three-in-one deal cleansing, moisturizing and nourishing skin. Most people use some variation of shaving creams because it creates an anti-slip glide and lubricates hairs for a closer shave; the results -- smoother skin and less stubble. Creating an organic, homemade version allows you to kick the chemicals (found in many leading brands -- seriously, flip the bottle over and see for yourself) and add more nourishment to your skin and is much better for the environment. When it comes to those daily hair removal for beards, mustaches and maybe legs, shaving is far less painful than waxing and easier to do yourself.
So, round up these ingredients and it should take about 10-minutes to prepare.
Natural Foamy Shaving Cream
1/4 cup - Raw Unrefined Shea Butter
1 Tbsp - Unscented liquid castile soap (Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap)
1 Tbsp - Aloe Vera Gel
3 tsp - Baking soda
1/3 cup - Extra Virgin Unrefined Coconut Oil (can also use almond oil here)
Rosemary Essential Oil (optional)
Directions: Place contents in a bowl and stir together using a wisk, hand-mixer or regular stand mixer. Set on medium to high speed, mix for about 1-2 minutes or until the contents look creamy and evenly combined. Store in an airtight container of your choice. If you don't have anything on hand, try these airtight mason jars as they're great for gifting.
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| Image courtesy of Marin/FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
Aloe Vera has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties making it a useful option for helping to heal scarring from razor bumps and acne prone skin. It also is an excellent moisturizer penetrating deeply through the skin's layers, nourishing it at a cellular level. It is most prized for its ability to regenerate skin cells. Aloe is an astringent, which means it helps to tighten skin for firmer and more youthful looking skin.
Castile Soap helps to naturally provide the lather needed for your foamy texture without the sketchy toxic ingredients. On that note, it doesn't strip the skin of its natural oils; instead, it helps to nourish skin, as it's made from a medley of natural oils. Castile soap can be found at most major drugstores like Meijer, Target or Walgreens; but if you can't find it there you may have better luck at your nearest health food store, Whole Foods or Trader Joe's.
Coconut Oil has a gazillion uses and benefits for the body, but when it comes to your skin it is an excellent moisturizer. It is rich in antioxidant properties, which provides a protective shield from free radicals and microscopic invaders; and simultaneously helps to keep skin looking vibrant. It also contains high amounts of vitamin E, doesn't clog pores and deeply penetrates through skin's layers nourishing it from inside out.
Baking Soda is another ingredient with a bounty of uses, but combined with these ingredients, it'll help create that foamy-sudsy mixture. Plus, it's an excellent cleanser... did I mention it's reeeally inexpensive too. For best results, use baking soda from your nearest natural health food store, as you'll be able to tell the difference with the results (especially if you use it to brush your teeth).
Shea Butter helps to even your complexion, reduce appearance of scars, and functions as a creamy moisturizer that absorbs into the skin without blocking pores. Its moisturizing compounds helps to lubricate skin, reducing irritation during shaving. The butter contains a lot of vitamin A and E, helping to protect from aged-looking skin.
Rosemary Essential Oil, as for this ingredient not only is it a refreshing piney scent, but it also is a natural preservative.
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| Credit: Evan-Amos |
If you are gifting, make it a complete package with this double-edge safety razor and brush set via Mini Fab. Turns out there's a difference among the various razors out there. Many men report, namely the Art of Manliness and Velvet Forge, that the best shaving results comes from using either a straight edge or double edge safety razor.
What do you think? Do you have preferences on which razor or shaving techniques to use? Please share below.
For More DIY Tips:
Very informative post, if you are into organic products or like Shea Butter in your facial products give a try to our Pure Natural Shaving Cream 3-in-1 Before and After Shave Cream for Men
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