DIY Pre Shave and After Shave Oils

This is a perfect gift for any guy to keep his skin soft and clean shaven.  

I purchased the double edge razor, brush, soap dish and a variety of soaps, plus a number of different brands of razor blades for my husband as a Christmas gift.  He needs to shave frequently and really enjoys when he can get a straight razor shave from the barber.  I did some researching and found that using a double edge razor is as close as you can get to a straight shave when shaving at home.  

Why a double edge razor?   First, a double edge razor has a single blade with two sides.  The skin is protected from the blade with the "guard," so that that the skin only comes into contact with the edge of the blade, for a much closer shave. Hard to reach areas (under your nose and neck area) are easier to reach with a double edge razor.  

Why buy so many different blades?  A blade that provides a smooth and comfortable shave for one person may be harsh and uncomfortable on someone else's skin.  It was recommended to get a number of styles so that he can find the right blade for his skin and facial hair type.  For more information on the right blades for a double edge razor go to Shaving 101.  It's a great site to get a ton of information on shaving.

Why do you need a shaving brush?  A shaving brush helps to create the perfect lather that exfoliates and conditions the skin.  It softens the hair, and allows for a very close shave.  The Cigar Advisor had an article that explained that the brush absorbs hot water and shaving soap to create a thicker lather to cushion the skin.  This provides more protection.  It softens the hair and suspends whiskers into a thicker lather away from the skin.  The razor can then access and cut the hairs close to the skin with fewer passes.  This results in a closer, faster shave.

Why use a pre shave oil?  It is very important to get the skin ready for shaving.  It helps to moisturize the skin and protects it from razor burn and irritation.  If you plan to use a pre shave oil, a thinner consistency is preferred as a thicker oil can clog the razor, making it difficult to shave.

Using the pre and after shave oils.  To begin, wet your face and apply oil all over the area you want to shave.  Let it set for at least a minute.  Apply your soap or cream lather to your face and proceed to shave as normal.

I found the recipe for the pre and after shave on the One Project Closer blog.  I looked at a number of online recipes and really liked the fact that she included pre AND after shave recipes.  

Here is what you will need to make your own pre and after shave oils:

Pre Shave Oil

• 2 oz Glass spray bottle  (I got mine here)
• 1 oz Olive Oil
• 4 drops Vitamin E  (I got mine here)
• 4 drops YL Lavender Essential Oil  (order here)

Lavender essential oil can be used to soothe and cleanse common cuts, bruises, and skin irritations.  That's what makes it a good choice for a pre shave oil.  The vitamin E is added as it is an antioxidant and protects and repairs your skin.  I changed the recipe a tad, as I didn't have orange essential oil at the time.  Still smells amazing and great for the skin. 

After Shave Oil

•  2 oz glass spray bottle
• 1 oz Witch Hazel  (local grocery store)
• 4 drops Vitamin E
• 12 drops YL Valor Essential Oil  (order here)

Valor was in the original recipe on the One Project Closer blog, and I stuck with it.  I love the smell.  I think of all the oils I have it is the most "manly" smelling one.  Valor is a blend of spruce, rosewood, blue tansy  and frankincense in a base of coconut oil. Feel free to try different scents.  Always use glass bottles for your essential oils as the oils can break down plastics.

Here are some great resources if you are interested in learning more about shaving or choosing a razor:  

•  Shaving 101
• Men's Shaving 
• Classic Shaving Blog
• Shaving Shack