For Him: Alcohol-Free Aftershave

​Most DIY bath/body/personal care recipes out there are she focused. While scent has no gender, generally products made for men have more of an earthy, musky fragrance. This aftershave can be used by anyone, but it is particularly great as a facial toner and aftershave. This contains none of the alcohol, preservatives, or artificial fragrance of store bought brands. Instead, this is a refreshing mix that can help soothe and tone freshly shaved skin, soften and moisturize, and also leave a wonderful fragrance behind that is natural, earthy, and not overpowering. My husband loves how this makes his skin feel soft and yet supple (with no overdrying) and that the aroma is warm and musky without being overpowering. I even sneak a spray of it on my scarf sometimes because I love the smell. 

DIY: Alcohol-Free Aftershave

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{wholly rooted}

This recipe uses witch hazel instead of alcohol, which has been used for ages as an astringent, and to smooth skin without drying. Be sure to find a witch hazel brand that is fragrance and alcohol-free, so that you get the full benefit of the plant without the sting. Vegetable glycerin assists in retaining moistures, and acts as an emollient to soften skin. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. These ingredients combined with the essential oils make a wonderful gentle aftershave for even sensitive skin.

{ingredients}

• 3.25 ounces alcohol and fragrance-free witch hazel

• .5 ounces distilled water

• 1/2 tsp. vegetable glycerin

• 1/2 tsp. vitamin E oil

• 4-ounce bottle with spray attachment

• 20-35 drops of essential oils (see suggestions below)

Instructions:
Pour the witch hazel and water into a clean 4-ounce glass bottle. Add your vitamin E and vegetable glycerin. Shake well. Add the essential oils.

This recipe is a rich earthy scent, and includes:
8 drops white fir essential oil
7 drops cedarwood essential oil
5 drops tangerine essential oil
5 drops patchouli essential oil
3 drops juniper berry essential oil
2 drops vanilla essential oil

After adding the oils, shake well again.

It is ready! Label and date your creation.

Don’t forget that essential oils will rise to the top, so shake well each time before using.

To use: Spray 4-6 sprays onto palm, rub hands together, and immediately apply to freshly shaven face. Do not spray directly onto the face.

Create your own favorite fragrance. Just be sure to use sun-safe (non phototoxic) essential oils if he shaves in the morning before heading out.

Rosemary, mandarin, sandalwood, pine, and other earthy aromas can blend well together. Find your (and his) favorite!

Published December 3, 2015

 
It isn't always easy to find handmade and homemade gift ideas for the men in your life - and this recipe makes a great gift!
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