The solution? Turn to DIY. That’s not to say you can’t mimic those commercial creams (they are fun to slather on, after all). Marisa Plescia, research scientist at clean beauty e-tailer NakedPoppy, explains that you can definitely recreate a “whipped” natural oil and butter-based product. It works just as well, and better yet, it “will make your skin feel especially silky-smooth.” Here’s what you’ll need to whip it up (pun intended): And that’s it! Easy, no? When you’re ready to use, just place a thin layer of the shaving cream on your skin before going about your usual shave routine. “Just be sure to thoroughly wash your razor,” Plescia advises. “As the shave cream can clog the blades.” The butter-based cream can also be harder to wash off than your typical shave gel, so you might have to use soap to scrub it off post-shave. Nonetheless, your skin will be touchably smooth. As for the additional ingredients, aloe vera gel or juice is great to add if you have sensitive skin. As you may know, aloe has anti-inflammatory properties1 that can make your shave cream extra soothing. In fact, you can find aloe in a ton of professional products, due to its ability to calm any nicks and scrapes as you shave. On that note, essential oils can provide a personalized scent (Blankenship is partial to eucalyptus, lavender, chamomile, or peppermint essential oils), but those with sensitive skin may want to proceed with caution: Essential oils have the potential to become irritating when used at high concentrations. A final, important note: This DIY shaving cream is not meant to withstand the test of time. According to Plescia, it’s best to keep it for up to two weeks max in a dry, cool place (note: not your shower). “If water gets into your shave cream, discard it and make a new batch,” she says. “Water can promote the growth of microbes.” And you don’t want your shave cream becoming contaminated with bacteria.
