For many people, shaving is an essential component of their skin care and grooming routine. It’s a lot less painful than waxing, but it can come with a series of unwanted side effects, including razor burn, nicks, and irritation. Even people with masterful shaving techniques can experience these side effects, because it depends on the skin type. Some skin is simply more sensitive than others.
Many people enjoy the soft, smooth feel of freshly shaven skin. Some shaving creams, however, can make the skin feel dry because they don’t supply moisture. This is where shaving with coconut oil comes into play. It lathers onto the skin easily and contributes to a cleaner shave and softer, hydrated skin. If you’re new to shaving with coconut oil, though, there are some tips that can contribute to a better shaving experience.
Start With The Right Tools
First off, you need a great razor, so toss the old razor that has dull blades and use a new razor that has multiple blades. Many experts say that a razor that has experienced more than 10 shaves is old and potentially infectious. Before you glide the razor across your skin, you need a gentle exfoliating scrub. Exfoliating prior to shaving helps to open pores and remove bacteria, which may lead to ingrown hairs.
Clean The Razor
One problem that you may encounter while using a coconut oil shaving cream is that it may clog up your razor blades. This is a minor problem that has a quick and easy solution. Simply put the razor in a glass of hot water and dish soap and allow it to soak for five minutes. Allow the razor to air dry once you remove it.
You Can Use It Anywhere
From your face to your ankles, you can use a coconut oil shaving cream anywhere on the body. The only real exception is if you have very oily skin, especially on the face. People with oily skin often find that coconut oil induces blemishes after application. This isn’t always the case because coconut oil exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, but it does happen occasionally.
Use The Right Technique
After you get a new razor, open your pores with warm water and exfoliate to remove build-up, it’s time to shave. In an effort to achieve the smoothest shave, you need the right technique. If shaving your legs, bend your knee slightly and pull the skin taut. Gently glide the razor over the skin in the direction of hair growth. Any skin expert will tell you that you should always shave in the direction that your hair grows. Lastly, don’t shave the same area more than once because that can lead to cuts and razor burn. If you have to go over the area multiple times, you should replace your razor blade.
DIY Coconut Vanilla Shaving Cream
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unrefined coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
Instructions:
- If you have a stand mixer, then you can whip the coconut oil in there for about five minutes, add the vanilla extract, and then whip for another minute.
- If you don’t have a stand mixer, add the coconut oil to a mixing bowl and whip on high for five minutes with an electric hand mixer. Add the vanilla extract and continue to whip until well combined.
- Place the mixture into an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Use when you have to shave.
- Although this shaving cream does enhance moisture, you may also need to use an additional moisturizer when you get out of the shower post-shave.
