Shaving foam is an essential product for many people when it comes to shaving. However, commercial products commonly found on the market may contain chemicals that irritate the skin or are not suitable for people with sensitive skin or allergies to certain ingredients. Fortunately, there is a simple and effective alternative: homemade shaving foam.
Making shaving foam at home is not only cheaper, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, which is especially useful if you have sensitive skin or prefer natural products. Below, we give you several recipes using ingredients such as honey, almond oil or shea butter, as well as details on their benefits and how to prepare them step by step.
Benefits of making homemade shaving foam
Choosing to make your own shaving foam not only saves you money, but also provides you with the following benefits:
- Total control of ingredients: You can choose natural ingredients and avoid chemicals that irritate your skin.
- Suitable for sensitive skin: Because they contain no preservatives or artificial additives, homemade formulas are often gentler on the skin.
- Customizable: You can adjust the texture and scent to suit your preferences. Adding essential oils promotes a personalized and relaxing shaving experience.
- Environmental friendly: By avoiding aerosols and plastic packaging, you are helping to reduce waste.
Honey-based shaving foam
Ingredients
- Half cup olive oil,
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa butter,
- 2 tablespoons of honey,
- 2 vitamin E capsules,
- a cup of neutral liquid soap,
- a tablespoon of baking soda.
Preparation: First, melt the cocoa butter over a low heat and then add all the ingredients. Mix until you obtain a homogeneous mass. Pour the foam into a container and cool it before using it.
Olive oil provides excellent hydration and honey is known for its antibacterial properties, which helps reduce possible irritations caused by shaving. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and helps protect the skin against free radicals.
Shaving foam with almond oil
Ingredients
- Half cup hair conditioner,
- half a cup of shampoo,
- a cup of almond oil,
- a tablespoon of baking soda,
- a capsule of vitamin E.
Preparation: Mix all the ingredients together, saving the baking soda for last. Put the mixture in the fridge before using.
Almond oil is a wonderful emollient that helps soften and nourish the skin. The shampoo and conditioner provide lather and make the razor glide easier.
Shaving foam with shea butter
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons of shea butter,
- 50 milliliters of coconut oil,
- 2 tablespoons of baking soda,
- 50 milliliters of liquid soap.
Preparation: Melt the shea butter in a bain-marie and then add the other ingredients. Mix until smooth. Allow to cool before use.
Shea butter is known for its restorative and moisturizing properties. Combined with coconut oil, which is antiviral and antibacterial, this lather is perfect for people with dry skin or skin prone to nicks during shaving.
Homemade shaving gel
Ingredients
- A cup of facial cleanser,
- half a cup of essential oil (such as lavender or peppermint),
- 2 tablespoons of baking soda,
- a capsule of vitamin E.
Preparation: Mix all the ingredients in a pan over low heat until you obtain a homogeneous dough. Allow to cool and store in a container. It is recommended to store it in the refrigerator.
This homemade shaving gel has a more moisturizing and soothing approach, ideal for skin that tends to get irritated. The facial cleanser provides softness and the lavender or mint essential oil provides freshness and a relaxing aroma.
Bonus recipe: Shaving foam with witch hazel, calendula and aloe vera
Ingredients
- 39,5% witch hazel hydrolate,
- 20% homemade linen gel,
- 18% Decyl glucoside (surfactant),
- 10% calendula oil,
- 10% aloe vera gel,
- 1% cosgard (preservative),
- 1% peppermint essential oil,
- 0,5% alpha bisabolol.
Preparation: The mixture is made cold, except for the flax gel, which needs to be prepared separately. Mix all the ingredients in the indicated proportions and store them in a suitable container, preferably one that generates mousse-like foam.
Witch hazel hydrosol is an excellent skin toner with anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Aloe vera gel helps soothe the skin and alpha bisabolol is ideal for treating small wounds, such as razor cuts.
Additional tips for a perfect shave
- Softens hair before shaving: Use warm water or a hot shower to open your pores and make it easier for the razor to slide.
- Use a sharp blade: Change the blade regularly to avoid irritation and cuts.
- Apply a post-shave lotion: Opt for products with soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera or vitamin E, to reduce irritation.
Step by step for a comfortable and safe shave
For best results when using homemade shaving foam, follow these steps:
- Wash the area to be shaved with warm water to soften the hair.
- Apply shaving foam generously and massage into skin to cover all hair.
- Use a sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth.
- Rinse your skin with cold water to close the pores.
- Apply a post-shave lotion or balm to keep your skin moisturized and soft.
Homemade shaving foam is a great alternative to commercial products. With natural ingredients, you not only take care of your skin, but you also save money and customize the formula to your needs. Whether you choose a recipe with honey, almond oil, or shea butter, all of these options will give you a comfortable, safe, and irritation-free shave.