Some men despise shaving and let their facial hair grow wild. Others prefer a cleaner look, grooming their beards to a specific shape and length. Finally, there are those who relish in the moment after a close shave. The smooth skin is clean and fresh, but what are guys doing to nourish their post-shave skin? It doesn’t have to be an elaborate routine; rather, applying a simple DIY aftershave can do the trick.
What Is Aftershave?
Just as the name suggests, aftershave is something to treat your skin after you shave. Some guys enjoy the refreshing scent, but what are the real benefits? Well, that all depends on what comprises the aftershave. For the most part, alcohol-based aftershaves act like facial sanitizers, cleaning the tiny cuts on the epidermis post-shave. Most aftershaves contain isopropyl alcohol, which kills bacteria that potentially inhabit those little cuts. However, alcohol-based aftershaves can have harmful effects on the skin.
It’s often better to nourish the skin with carrier oils and essential oils after you shave. Great natural moisturizers include sweet almond oil, aloe vera gel, coconut oil, and jojoba oil. These ingredients help to reduce itching, potential swelling, ingrown hairs, clogged pores, or follicle inflammation. It’s better to use an aftershave that contains those ingredients. That’s why you clicked on this article, hopefully.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a superstar for your skin, no matter if you have a sunburn, small wound, or freshly shaven skin. It encourages cell reproduction, working to regenerate and heal the skin without intense scarring. If the goal after you shave is to have the smoothest skin ever, aloe vera should be your go-to ingredient. Not only does it help to minimize the risk of acne, but it is also excellent for sensitive skin that’s prone to razor bumps.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil offers a very soothing and sinus-cleansing aroma, but that’s not why it’s in this aftershave recipe. The essential oil is naturally rich in antiseptic properties, vitamin A, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids. It helps to decrease inflammation and offers a cooling sensation that invigorates the skin when you apply it after shaving. Because of the antiseptic properties, peppermint essential oil helps reduce the risk of razor burns or rashes.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is well known for its myriad health benefits. It works to moisturize the skin, cleanse pores, and remove bad odors. It’s also beneficial to use after shaving because it helps prevent and even treat razor-related injuries. Tea tree oil helps to alleviate irritation after shaving because it is a natural astringent. Additionally, it helps remedy little nicks that occur as a natural result of shaving with a razor.
DIY Peppermint Tea Tree Aftershave
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup witch hazel
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
- 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
- 2 tablespoons filtered water
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
- 10 drops tea tree essential oil
Instructions:
- Procure a four-ounce spray bottle and pour all of the ingredients into it.
- Shake the bottle vigorously to combine.
- Before each use, shake well and then spritz one or two sprays on your face after shaving. You can let it air dry or pat your face with a towel.
