When you use disposable razors, chemically based shaving cream, and non-recyclable containers, shaving your face or legs starts to take its toll on the environment. However, one of the best ways to make your shaving routine eco-friendlier is to make your own shaving cream from natural ingredients at home.
Here are some tips and recipes for DIY shaving cream to make hair removal something you feel good about in your personal hygiene routine.
The Problem with Commercial Shaving Creams
Many commercial shaving creams contain sulfates, which have been studied for their cancer-causing potential. This ingredient is common in shaving creams that produce foam. Emulsifiers are also common in shaving cream and linked to hormone disruption, cancer risk, and eye irritation in studies. Phthalates in commercial shaving cream are used to stabilize the product and extend the shelf life. However, they may also be endocrine disruptors when absorbed through the skin. Other questionable ingredients in shaving creams include formaldehyde, isopentane, glycols, benzene, dimethiconol, and fragrance.
Benefits of Homemade Shaving Creams
As a way of avoiding unnecessary chemical exposure in daily life, more people are trying to make their own shaving creams at home. This is a great DIY product to start with since it is very simple and commonly used. Homemade shaving creams made with natural ingredients are beneficial because they can be toxin-free, be more moisturizing for sensitive skin, work well for both men and women, and don’t’ take a lot of time to make.
Common Shaving Cream Ingredients
There are certain ingredients that you will commonly find in DIY shaving cream recipes, so it’s a smart idea to stock up on these items if you are interested in going eco-friendlier with your shaving routine. Here are some all-natural ingredients to look for next time you are shopping online or in a health food store.
- Castile soap
- Coconut oil
- Olive oil
- Shea butter
- Cocoa butter
- Raw honey
- Aloe vera gel
- Essential oils
Sample Shaving Cream Recipes
If this article has sparked your interest in making your own shaving cream from home, here are a couple easy recipes to try. The first one is very soothing for sensitive skin, while the second one is rich and hydrating for extra moisture.
Aloe and Almond Shaving Gel
INGREDIENTS
- ¼ cup liquid castile soap
- ¼ cup aloe vera gel
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp. almond oil
- 15 drops peppermint essential oil
DIRECTIONS
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Pour mixture into a foam pump and use for shaving.
Oil and Butter Shaving Cream
INGREDIENTS
- 1/3 cup shea butter
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup coconut oil
- 15 drops essential oil of your choice
DIRECTIONS
- Melt shea butter and coconut oil on the stove on low heat.
- Pour into a container and add the olive oil.
- Place mixture in the refrigerator until it solidifies.
- Once hardened, blend with a mixer until creamy.
- Add drops of your favorite essential oil.
- Use for shaving and store in an airtight container.