As the body’s largest organ, the skin provides a physical barrier that protects you from the outside world. If the skin isn’t functioning optimally, you may notice irregular or unpleasant symptoms, including pimples, lumps, bumps, and infections. You may not need to worry about some symptoms, while others may be cause for concern. Some may even require medical treatment to prevent symptoms from worsening. 

Underarm bumps, for example, are one such symptom that can be quite annoying. There are several cases to these bumps, so understanding how they came to be is integral to getting rid of them. To get to the root cause of symptoms and find the right course of action to take care of the issue, continue reading. 

Acne

If you have had acne before, you know that it typically occurs on the face, chest, back, and arms. Those little blemishes can rear their heads under the arms too, according to dermatologists. Acne has several causes, the most common of which include clogged hair follicles, excess oil, skin inflammation, or bacteria. Because the armpits have oil glands, you may see blemishes in those areas. Dermatologists recommend seeking out washes with active ingredients that fight acne. If you cannot clear up underarm pimples with an acne wash, a topic cream or oral medication may be necessary. 

Ingrown Hairs

Certain cultures, especially here in the United States, have normalized getting rid of body hair. If you shave, wax, or move your armpit hair in other ways, you increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Commonly associated with shaving, ingrown hairs, or razor bumps, resemble small pimples. As the hair grows between shaves, the hair shaft can curl back and penetrate the skin. That causes red, irritated skin and the pimple-like appearance. Although anyone who shaves can experience ingrown hairs, they are more common in people with curly or coarse hair. You can click here to learn about a lot of home remedies for razor bumps, which tend to clear up on their own. In some instances, you may need to treat ingrown hairs with dermatologist-recommended products. Word to the shavers out there: replace your blades because shaving with dull blades can easily cause ingrown hairs. 

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The what now? Commonly known as HS, hidradenitis suppurativa is a lesser-known cause of underarm bumps. This commonly occurs where skin touches skin, making the armpits a prime spot for the issue to occur. HS also goes by acne inversa, which can be mistaken for acne, even though it is not a type of acne. The underarm bumps are similar to lumps, but they can appear painful and drain pus, according to experts. Failure to treat them can result in scarring. HS is a chronic skin condition and there is no cure, unfortunately. Consult your dermatologist to determine the best course of action to take, i.e. antibacterial creams, oral antibiotics, or medical cleansers.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

If you notice a lump or swollen area in your armpit area, you may have swollen lymph nodes. The lymphatic system’s primary functions are to filter out foreign substances and fight off infection. You have hundreds of lymph nodes throughout the body, some of which are under your arms. Swollen lymph nodes in the underarm area can cause bumps or lumps, which you may be able to move with your fingers. There is always an underlying cause to swollen lymph nodes, as they don’t swell up on their own. Certain cancers, autoimmune disorders, and medications can cause lymph nodes to swell up. Because swollen lymph nodes are common, they aren’t always cause for concern. Your immune system may not be in its best working order and the swelling will calm down once it fights off the infection. Should swollen lymph nodes persist, especially if they are hard or tender to the touch, you may want to consult your healthcare professional.

Folliculitis

If you suspect that acne is the cause of your underarm bumps but the pimples don’t go away with over-the-counter treatments, folliculitis may be the culprit. Folliculitis is a common skin infection of the hair follicles, and the pus-filled bumps resemble acne. Bacteria can get into damaged hair follicles and cause folliculitis bumps, which mimic ingrown hairs. Hair follicles are easily damaged by shaving, wearing tight clothing that causes friction, or spending too much time in sweaty clothes after a workout. In mild cases, folliculitis will go away on its own. You can apply a warm compress to your underarms several times per day to help accelerate hair follicle recovery. You can also experiment with peroxide washes or antibacterial treatments, should folliculitis persist.

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When you learn to make DIY products, consider your holiday gifts covered. Be it a bath bomb for Mother’s Day, a shaving butter for Father’s day, or candles for Christmas, DIY gifts are greatly appreciated. Depending on the holiday or birthday, you can fill a small basket with different homemade goods for that person. 

What is one of the most popular gifts that men receive on birthdays, Father’s Day, or Christmas? Cologne is very popular and it is a much better alternative to socks, underwear, or razors, even though those products are useful. Smelling great, however, is potentially the greatest gift of all. You may not have fragrances, alcohols, and other cologne ingredients on hand, but you can get your hands on masculine essential oils. There are essential oils that create more “manly” aromas than others. 

What Essential Oils Do Men Like?

Every single person is different, so there are certain scents that appeal more to some than others. Additionally, people have varying sensitivities to the intense aromas of essential oils. For this reason, you always want to ask the person about the essential oils, or at least the type of scents, that they prefer. Some people despise patchouli, while others can’t seem to get enough of it. Sandalwood essential oil, for example, has a woody, rustic aroma that is frequently used in beard balms and oils. It usually goes with the lumberjack or outdoorsy type of scent!

Typically, you want a manly blend of essential oils to contain a subtle floral aroma, but you don’t want it to overpower the blend. Lavender essential oil, for example, may tuck in without dominating the blend. Ylang ylang, magnolia, and rose essential oils, on the other hand, will overpower the blend because of their strong aromas. Below, you can find great essential oil blends for men that you can use in diffusers, perfumes, soaps, beard oils, and more. 

Commute Conqueror

Don’t let rush-hour traffic ruin your day. This manly diffuser blend will help keep eyes on the road, while simultaneously promoting relaxation. Consider getting a USB diffuser for the car!

• 2 drops lime essential oil
• 1 drop each: eucalyptus, copaiba, and cedarwood essential oils

Armchair Expert

This blend is for any man who commands the armchair, especially during a Sunday night football game. Settle into the recliner and relive the glory days before watching your team on the tube. 

• 6 drops valor essential oil blend
• 2 drops lemon essential oil
• 2 drops tea tree essential oil

Fresh Cut Grass

If you enjoy looking at lawnmowers and other yard equipment in the hardware store, this is the blend for you. The best part about this blend is that you don’t have to spend hours pulling weeds, weed whacking, or edging the yard to smell like freshly cut grass. Bring the outdoors inside!

• 6 drops citrus fresh essential oil
• 2 drops each: basil, bergamot, and northern lights black spruce essential oils

Afternoon Pick-Me-Up

Leave the energy drinks alone because they aren’t doing anything for your health. Get a diffuser and start energizing your afternoons with the power of essential oils.

• 6 drops orange essential oil
• 4 drops peppermint essential oil
• 2 drops Idaho grand fir essential oil

Man Cave Master

The scent of a man cave may repel the ladies. Uplift your senses with a unique blend of essential oils that screams masculinity. It’s a great blend to freshen up a man cave!

• 6 drops bergamot essential oil
• 3 drops northern lights black spruce essential oil
• 3 drops wintergreen essential oil

Woodshop Master

If you love working with your hands and can tell the difference between cedar, cherry, and pine, this is the blend for you. There is no need to spend a day in the wood shop when you can diffuse a similar blend in the house.

• 6 drops tangerine essential oil
• 4 drops Raven essential oil blend
• 2 drops Idaho blue spruce essential oil

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It’s no secret people have changed quite a bit over the years. The demand for higher-quality products with little to no harmful ingredients is greater than ever. There has been a shift to more natural cleaning products, hygiene products, skin care products, and more in recent years. Given what people know about the harmful ingredients in certain products, more and more people continue to opt for non-toxic products. 

Did you know that you can easily make non-toxic renditions of products that you buy in stores or online? Not only is making your own products more cost-effective, but it is also more sustainable and you are in complete control. That means that there are no surprise ingredients that may cause adverse side effects. There are no fragrances or “natural flavors” that hide ingredients that can damage lung function or disrupt the endocrine system. 

We don’t mean to scare you out of the store because it can be quite labor-intensive to make every single product you use. That said, there are certain things that are just as effective as the products you purchase in stores, not to mention a whole lot safer, too. Below, you’ll find some of our favorite DIY recipes. We’ve got everything from cleaning products to hygiene products, and we think that your body and health will appreciate them. If you make some of the products, leave a comment to let us know how you liked them. 

Cleaning Products

DIY All-Purpose Cleaner

Having an all-natural, all-purpose cleaner that’s free of vinegar is quite rare in the DIY cleaning space. Feel free to use this spray almost anywhere in the house because it is essential for cleaning.

Click here to make the cleaner.

Bathroom Disinfectant Spray

Kill those germs in the bathroom without using harmful chemical cleaners. This DIY bathroom disinfectant is eco-friendly, efficient, and doesn’t make your lungs hurt if you inhale the aroma!

Click here to make the spray.

DIY Bathroom Spray To Get Rid Of Odors

Nobody wants to leave the bathroom like a smelly wasteland. Make this DIY bathroom spray with simple ingredients that help eliminate odors.

Click here to make the spray.

All-Natural Glass Cleaner Spray

Don’t you wish you could clean windows and mirrors without spraying toxins all over the home? That’s exactly what this DIY glass cleaner is for. You don’t need chemicals to make those windows streak-free.

Click here to make the glass cleaner spray.

Orange-Scented Grease Cleaner

Cut through the toughest grease and clean up the grimiest messes in your kitchen with this DIY all-natural, orange-scented grease cleaner.

Click here to make the grease cleaner.

Beauty/Hygiene Products

DIY Lavender Sage Deodorant

Reduce sweating and help establish healthier bacteria under your pits with this DIY deodorant that is very refreshing and fragrant. You’ll smell great without the need for a bunch of aluminum or chemicals.

Click here to make the deodorant.

DIY Olive Oil Moisturizer

Four ingredients yield an incredible olive oil-based moisturizer that is a wonderful, natural alternative to store

Click here to make the moisturizer.

Lemon Vanilla Body Butter

Silky smooth skin is just a few ingredients away! Whip up a batch of this lemon vanilla body butter and keep your skin soft all day long.

Click here to make the body butter.

Homemade Rosemary Mint Shampoo

Nourish the hair and scalp with ingredients that contain compounds that may promote hair growth, increase thickness, and reduce inflammation.

Click here to make the shampoo.

Shaving Butter For Smooth Skin

Shave with ease and moisturize the skin at the same time when you lather up with this all-natural homemade shaving butter. It’s very safe and there’s room for customization.

Click here to make the shaving butter.

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If you shave frequently, you only want the safest, purest ingredients for your skin. You have a thoughtful approach to how you shave, so you don’t simply use subpar shaving equipment or creams. The shaving butter in this article is the perfect swap for commercial shaving creams because it only uses natural ingredients. There’s no need to worry about toxins in your personal care products!

Before we cover how this shaving butter benefits your skin, we have a quick safety note. If you use this shaving butter in the shower, keep in mind that it can make the shower floor a bit slippery. For this reason, consider a non-slip shower mat or simply sit on the edge of the tub or on a shower seat while shaving. There is also no water in this recipe, so no preservatives are necessary. That said, you want to make sure that you wash and dry your hands before sticking your hands into the jar. If you introduce water to the shaving butter, it could easily spoil or start to mold. 

Olive Oil Benefits

Olive oil is a common pantry staple for many people because it is a common ingredient for salad dressings and cooking. It offers heart-healthy benefits, but it turns out that it may be just as beneficial for the skin. According to several studies, olive oil contains vitamins and antioxidants that improve hydration and offer anti-aging effects. Olive oil contains squalene and vitamin E. While squalene supports the skin’s moisture retention, vitamin E increases the skin’s ability to absorb and retain water. Olive oil also works to cleanse the skin by dissolving oily residue.

Coconut Oil Benefits

Coconut oil is naturally rich in medium-chain fatty acids, which are a form of saturated fat. About 65% of coconut oil’s total composition is medium-chain fatty acids, which exhibit antimicrobial properties that may protect against harmful organisms. This is highly important for the overall health of your skin, as these properties may fight off everything from acne and cellulitis to athlete’s foot. Coconut oil is also an excellent moisturizer for people with mild to moderately dry skin. One study found that coconut oil significantly improved hydration, and was just as effective as mineral oil. Another study found that coconut oil use led to a 68% decrease in eczema severity, making it more effective than mineral oil in eczema treatment.

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is not a newcomer to the world of health and beauty. According to historical accounts, the Aztecs and Mayans used and consumed cocoa butter as early as 460 AD. Cocoa butter contains high amounts of polyphenols that may be helpful for your anti-aging efforts, according to some studies. It may also soothe sensitive or inflamed skin caused by dermatitis. Cocoa butter also contains numerous vitamins and minerals, including vitamins E & K, copper, iron, choline, and magnesium. The iron contributes to glowing skin, while the copper supports healthy collagen and elastin levels, creating supple skin. 

Homemade All-Natural Shaving Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup each: coconut oil, cocoa butter, and olive oil
• 3 tablespoons liquid castile soap
• 20 drops lavender essential oil
• 4 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

• Add the coconut oil and cocoa butter to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir gently until fully melted and then pour into a large mixing bowl. 
• Pour the olive oil into the bowl, stir to combine, and then refrigerate the bowl until the liquids are halfway solidified. 
• Remove the bowl from the fridge and whip using a hand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the castile soap and whip the mixture a little more. 
• Finally, add in the essential oils and whip again before spooning into a glass jar. Store the shaving butter in a cool, dry place and use when ready.

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More often than not, TikTok gives way to unusual trends that are downright strange. Every now and then, though, a novel idea will emerge from the sea of dance videos and confessionals. Recently, users have slapped trendy names on a theory, makeup look, self-care practice, or ritual that’s been around for a long time. An “everything shower” is one example of a recent TikTok trend.

What Is An Everything Shower?

The trendy everything shower is a practice that TikTok users swear by, especially when it comes to relaxing at the end of a work week. It isn’t just about washing your body; rather, it includes a host of self-care practices. From slathering on a thick hair mask to using a luxurious body scrub, an everything shower hashtag amassed over 32 million views on TikTok in the last month alone. Some people even like to incorporate a fluffy robe or scented candle into the practice. 

Although the practice isn’t anything new or revolutionary, a time-intensive shower can help people look after their physical and mental health. Many components of an everything shower are standard self-care practices that improve everything from stress and anxiety to the appearance of your skin. These everything showers have become essential components to end-of-the-week wind-down routines. If nothing else, an everything shower is an opportunity to prioritize yourself. It isn’t just a longer shower than normal, though. Read on to learn how to get into TikTok’s latest trend.

Before The Shower

Schedule in your shower, because it will take up a decent portion of your evening. Add your everything shower to your schedule on whatever night you have the most free time, so as not to rush through your routine. It should be a leisurely experience, not one that you feel you have to rush through. Additionally, turn on your favorite music to set the scene. Maybe you have a go-to playlist that helps you relax, or perhaps you prefer podcasts. As a final step before you begin your everything shower, consider incorporating aromatherapy with an essential oil diffuser. You can also set out your most comfortable pajamas to ensure that you are ready to get into bed immediately after your rinse.

During The Shower

In order to make sure that your hair is as clean as possible, add a clarifying shampoo or scalp scrub to your everything shower. These products should only be used once a week, though, because excessive use may cause dryness as a result of over-exfoliation. Speaking of exfoliation, use a body scrub in your everything shower, especially if you plan on shaving. Exfoliating before shaving will produce better results. As a quick note, make sure that you rinse off the scrub prior to shaving. Lastly, swap out your conditioner for a hair mask, especially if you have curly or chronically dry hair. A hair mask works best when used once a week. Massage it gently with your fingertips because massaging the scalp can increase circulation, which can enhance hair growth.

After the Shower

Applying a face mask after you step out of a steamy shower is an excellent way to pamper your skin. Depending on what your skin needs, face masks can provide hydration, gentle exfoliation, or brighten the skin. While you have your mask on, hydrate your skin with a body lotion, cream, or body butter. Considering that you just exfoliated in your everything shower, you want to replenish your skin with moisturizing ingredients to lock in moisture.

The last step of your everything shower routine is to simply relax. The ritual comes to a close when you sit down in your pajamas or bathrobe to read a book, sip some tea, or watch your favorite show. An everything shower can take a lot of work, so rest up to calm your mind before bed. You don’t have to take an everything shower the next day, so you can rest easy with that knowledge. 

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Moisturizers have a long history of use in skin care routines. The legend is that Cleopatra bathed in milk because it moisturized her skin. While people aren’t bathing in milk these days, they do use moisturizers to help increase water content in the stratum corneum, which is the skin’s outermost layer. Moisturizing works to relieve dryness and help the skin appear healthier and younger. 

Why Do Moisturizers Matter?

If the skin doesn’t have adequate moisture, it can have a dull, dry, or rough appearance. Many factors cause the skin to dry out, but the primary culprits are frequent bathing, environmental influences, and certain medical conditions. Moisturizing your face works to protect the skin’s barrier from irritation, while helping revive your skin from dryness. A moisturizer essentially creates a barrier between your skin and the climate, which benefits you during the winter because dry, cold air easily dries out the skin. 

Moisturizing on a daily basis helps the skin maintain its balance, so you don’t end up with skin that is too oily or too dry. Dermatologists suggest that people with oily skin look for lotions instead of creams. In fact, finding a moisturizer with an exfoliant ingredient can be a wonderful option. People with dry skin tend to benefit more from creams because they have a higher oil content. The plump, firm feeling after applying moisturizer on your face is not just something you notice in the mirror. One study found that moisturized skin protects it from daily stressors and early signs of aging. Now, let’s take a look at a few ingredients in the moisturizer in this article that make it so great. 

Almond Oil

There are two types of almond oil: sweet almond oil and bitter almond oil. Sweet almond oil is better suited for your skin as it contains vitamins A & E, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. According to some clinical studies and anecdotal evidence, applying sweet almond oil on the skin can have a series of benefits. The oil’s fatty acid content may help dissolve excess oil on the skin, helping reduce the appearance of acne. Because sweet almond oil exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, it may ease swelling of the skin. It may also help to calm inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. 

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is a common plant that some people refer to as “the miracle plant.” It has a diverse nutritional profile and can help improve immune function, aid digestion, and enhance the skin’s appearance. Unlike other moisturizing products, aloe vera gel doesn’t leave a greasy film on the skin after application. In fact, it works to unclog pores, soften the skin, and provide optimal hydration. Aloe vera gel is great to apply after shaving because it helps to heal razor bumps and reduce irritation from shaving. 

Beeswax

Beeswax has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which work to fight acne and soothe irritated skin. It helps to soothe the skin by combating dryness, drawing moisture from the air and locking it into your skin. According to research, beeswax is effective at soothing symptoms from eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions. 

DIY Healthy Facial Moisturizer

Ingredients:

• 3/4 ounce organic beeswax pellets
• 1/4 cup sweet almond oil
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 10 drops grapefruit essential oil
• 1 cup aloe vera gel

Instructions:

• Place a double boiler over medium-high heat. Make sure you have about two inches of water in the bottom portion.
• Add the beeswax, sweet almond oil, and coconut oil to the top of the double boiler and allow it to melt, stirring occasionally. 
• Once it is fully melted, pour the mixture into a heat-safe bowl and allow it to cool for about an hour or so at room temperature. The mixture should be somewhat hardened. 
• Add the essential oil and aloe vera gel to the bowl and then use an electric mixer to whip the mixture together. It should transform into a thick, fluffy lotion as you whip it. 
• Spoon this lotion into a glass jar and keep it under your bathroom sink or medicine cabinet in your bathroom. Store leftover lotion in an airtight glass jar in the fridge. Use as needed.

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If you shave on a regular basis, it’s ideal to use the safest and purest ingredients for the smoothest shave possible. The shaving butter in this article both eases the glide of a razor while moisturizing and nourishing the skin in the process. When using natural ingredients, you don’t have to worry about potentially harmful chemicals that the skin can easily absorb. Ditch the store bought shaving creams you use and start making your own!

The shaving butter in this article is exactly what you want out of shaving cream: rich, creamy, and fluffy. In addition to easing glide and aiding a close shave, this shaving butter may also reduce cuts and post-shave irritation. While the recipe contains a great combination of ingredients, there is room for some customization, should you feel inspired. Customizing it will come down to the essential oils you wish to use. If you want a more masculine scent, tea tree oil and cedarwood essential oil may be the better choices. Lavender and orange essential oils may give off a more feminine, floral scent. The decision is yours to make, though. 

Coconut Oil

On its own, coconut oil is an excellent ingredient to shave with. Because it may irritate sensitive areas of the skin, beauty experts advise only lathering the legs or arms with coconut oil for shaving. It not only acts as a protective agent between the razorblades and the skin, but also works to prevent irritation and razor burn. Additionally, coconut oil helps to moisturize the skin, leaving your skin smooth and hydrated post-shave. In fact, it may help your skin feel softer and smoother for days after you shave!

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter comes from the cocoa bean of the cacao plant, which has been cultivated for about 3,000 years. This plant was revered by the Mayans and Aztecs, and it later became one of the most popular foods in the world after the Columbian Exchange brought it back to the Old World. One major use for cocoa butter is to promote smoother, hydrated skin. The rich fatty acid and antioxidant content helps reduce inflammation and balance the skin’s lipid production. As a shaving cream, cocoa butter allows for smooth, natural glide. It won’t clog drains because it melts in warm water. 

Olive Oil

Using olive oil as a shaving cream alternative is a great inexpensive option. Not only does it lubricate the skin for a smooth shave, but it also enhances moisture levels. Olive oil contains moisturizing properties that also make it an excellent lubricant for shaving. It’s also more natural than commercial shaving creams, leaving your skin feeling softer long after you finish shaving. If your skin is sun-damaged or weathered, olive oil can be an excellent choice for shaving because it is gentle and hydrating. Because it is oily, it may clog up a razor and require washing away with soap after you finish shaving. 

Homemade Shaving Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup each: coconut oil, cocoa butter, and olive oil
• 3 tablespoons castile soap
• 20 drops cedarwood essential oil
• 4 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

• Melt the coconut oil and cocoa butter in the top of a double boiler over medium heat. Once these ingredients have liquified, stir in the olive oil and remove from heat. 
• Pour this mixture into a heat-safe mixing boil and place in the refrigerator until the mixture is halfway solidified. 
• Remove the bowl from the fridge and whip with a hand mixer until light and fluffy. 
• Pour in the castile soup and whip for about 30 seconds. Add the essential oils and whip for an additional 30 seconds. 
• Store the mixture in a glass jar in a cool, dry place. It is oily so be careful not to slip if you use it in the shower. 

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When you know how to exfoliate properly, magical things can happen. Blemishes may vanish, the skin starts to emit a bright glow, and shaving becomes a whole lot easier. Exfoliation can help you achieve the smoothest shave possible, regardless of whether you shave your face, legs, arms, or armpits. Now, should you exfoliate before or after shaving for best results?

According to many dermatologists, the best way to achieve smooth, razor bump-free skin is to exfoliate before shaving. It’s quite possible that exfoliating post-shave may cause a burning sensation on the skin. This, however, depends on the type of exfoliant you use, as many typical ones can irritate the skin. It’s best to avoid scrubs or exfoliants that have harmful chemicals, so as not to contaminate the skin while cleansing it.

What Is Exfoliation?

Exfoliation works to slough away dead skin cells, unclog pores, even skin tone, and remove general debris. Regular exfoliation may also increase circulation to the skin’s surface and even stimulate the production of collagen. The type of exfoliating you do will depend on where you exfoliate. The skin on the face, for example, is much more sensitive than the skin on the legs. A more mild technique (gentle circles) may be necessary for the face, as opposed to the legs, on which you can use a loofa or wash cloth.

Why Is Exfoliation Important For Shaving?

Shaving, in and of itself, if a form of exfoliation, but it can lead to unwanted razor burn. While this has to do with shaving technique, exfoliating prior to shaving may reduce the likelihood of razor bumps. Physical exfoliants tend to have a mildly abrasive texture that helps to remove bacteria, dirt, and dead skin cells. Gentle exfoliation is the key because that can help free the edges of hairs that may be trapped under the skin.

When you remove dead skin cells, you prep the skin for a close shave. The exfoliation process also helps the hairs stand up, ensuring that the razor shaves them cleanly without pulling. If the razor has to work hard to pull hairs, you may experience cuts or tears in the skin. Depending on the area that you want to shave, exfoliating may loosen ingrown hairs, contributing to a more effective shave. 

Exfoliating The Legs

Not only is the skin less sensitive on the legs than it is on the face, but there is also more surface area. Using a gentle exfoliant may not be necessary, and it may cause you to use all of it during one session. Before you shave your legs, it’s best to exfoliate them with a sugar scrub, which you can easily make or purchase in stores. Exfoliating the legs prior to shaving helps the razor glide smoothly across the skin’s surface. This yields a much smoother shave and may reduce the chances of ingrown hairs developing. 

Exfoliating After Shaving

This probably isn’t the best idea, primarily because freshly shaven skin can be very sensitive, sometimes cut in certain places. Exfoliating after shaving may cause a burning sensation and irritation, which will only increase redness. Instead of exfoliating after shaving, you simply rinse the area, pat dry, and feel your softer skin. After drying the skin, it can also help to apply a moisturizer. The reason you want to apply a moisturizer after rinsing the skin or showering is to help lock in that moisture the skin just absorbed. This reduces the chances of dryness later on in the day. 

What About Waxing?

Waxing and shaving are completely different, and the same exfoliation rules don’t apply to waxing. Experts say that the last thing you want to do is exfoliate right before waxing. The skin barrier needs to be intact in order to reduce the risk of irritation or burning from waxing. It is, however, beneficial to exfoliate the areas you plan to wax, just not right before you yank those hairs out. Exfoliating encourages hairs out of the follicles as they grow, making it easier for the wax to adhere to them.

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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. 

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The post DIY Coconut Vanilla Shaving Cream appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

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.

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The post Homemade DIY Peppermint Tea Tree Aftershave appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.