Sometimes choosing the right gift for a guy can be difficult, but if he shaves, you’ve got the perfect solution. You can customize a gift with just him in mind by making a pre-electric shave lotion, shaving lotion, and aftershave lotion. You can vary the scent if you know what he likes and the ingredients depending on whether his skin is oily or dry. As an alternative, you can create generic shaving products that will work with any skin type.
Below are three basic generic recipes to get you started.
Shaving cream recipe
- 2 Tbsp beeswax
- 2 Tbsp jojoba oil (You can substitute sweet almond oil if you like, but some people who are allergic to nuts may have a reaction.) 1 cup of hot water
- 1 Tsp baking soda
- 2 Tbsp liquid castile soap (You can use solid castile soap grated.)
Heat the beeswax and jojoba oil in a double boiler over a medium heat until the beeswax is melted and appears clear. Allow to cool then add 4 drops of essential oil of choice. (2 drops of pine and 2 drops of bergamot produce a nice clean fragrance. Go ahead and experiment with other blends, just don’t make the scent unpleasantly strong.
In a separate pan heat water then add baking soda and castile soap and mix until the baking soda and soap dissolve. Add the aloe vera and mix thoroughly. Now pour soap mixture into the cooled beeswax/oil mixture and blend for two minutes. Stop for a few minutes. Blend for an additional two minutes. Pour shaving cream into jar(s) and seal. You’re done.
After Shave Lotion
The purpose of aftershave lotion is to close pores and heal any nicks he might have endured during the shaving process. Though after shave lotion is an astringent, it should be as painless an experience as possible. (My opinion)
- ½ cup rum or vodka
- ¼ cup witch hazel
- 1 Tbsp glycerin
- Pinch of alum to stop bleeding in case of nicks
- 4 drops of fragrant essential oil (optional) – If you used essential oils in your shaving cream recipe, use the same blend for
the after shave lotion to add continuity.
Add all ingredients, mix well and bottle. Instructions for use should advice about 1 teaspoon of aftershave in palm of hand is sufficient.
Pre-electric Shave Lotion
- ½ cup 80 proof vodka
- 2 Tbsp glycerin
- 1 Tbsp jojoba oil
- 2 – 4 drops essential oil – citrus oils such as lemon and lime work well.
Mix ingredients and bottle.
The above recipes are just starting points. You can get your creative juices going and expand on these by experimenting with different carrier oils, essential oils, and alcohol. Tell us what creations you’ve come up with for the men in your life.
Now go have fun and relax.
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Super Simple Aftershave Lotion for Men
5 Spa Creations You Can Make in 10 Minutes or Less for Under $10