A bottle of aftershave lotion.
Aftershave is a product most used by men on the skin of the face after shaving, although there are also products for female use. In addition to smelling good, it helps keep skin smooth and in good condition, a concern for men who shave every day. Additionally, as an alternative to commercial aftershaves, people can also formulate their own with specific ingredients or scents for unique scents and silky-smooth skin.
A man applying aftershave lotion.
This product has several functions. Most importantly, it acts as an astringent, which means it raises the pH of your face after using alkaline soaps to shave. Healthy skin is naturally somewhat acidic: both sexes use astringents and toners to keep skin smooth. Using an aftershave lotion also closes the pores that were opened by warm water during shaving, disinfects the surface of the skin to prevent possible infection from minor cuts and cuts, and can also moisturize. Men with very dry skin should add moisturizer after using aftershave or purchase a product that contains moisturizer.
Orange peel is sometimes added to aftershave lotion.
Most aftershaves contain alcohol, which is a natural astringent and disinfectant. Non-alcoholic products are available and often contain astringents like witch hazel mixed with soothing plant ingredients like aloe vera and seaweed extracts. Non-alcoholic products are more likely to come in the form of gels and creams, although they are also produced in liquid form. In all cases, the aftershave should be applied with cotton pads so that the oil from the fingers does not bother the skin of the face.
Aloe vera is commonly used as a moisturizing ingredient in aftershave lotion.
To make your bay rum aftershave, you can soak two to four cups of bay leaves in enough rum to cover them. Add spices like rosemary, ginger, orange peel, or cloves for a slightly more complex scent, and place the jar in a cool, dark place for a month. Remove the aftershave lotion and strain into a new jar for daily use. To make an alcohol-free moisturizing foundation, you can mix 2 cups of witch hazel, 2 ounces (60 milliliters) of rosewater, 2 ounces (60 milliliters) of aloe vera gel, 0.5 ounces (15 milliliters) of vegetable glycerin, and a blend of essential oils of your choice to create a unique scent. This mixture can be used immediately.