Thread: Baby oil for pre shave

It concerns me that lanolin is WAY down on the list, and the rest are unnatural chemicals that can be especially harmful to your face (see all the different sodiums, I could list others). My guess is that you could do some research (if I get time I will do it and post it here), but the end result will be an expensive, albeit heavenly, product. Trust me on this economical tip: use extra-virgin olive oil daily, even if you don't shave. I use it post-shave, after any post-shave treatment, whether I shave or not, and I use both sparingly. Rub it in well. You should not be shiny. After a while, you will be simply amazed at the results! You can buy a cheap evoo for about $6/quart, and all it takes is about 3-5 drops to cover your face and beard completely.

Originally Posted by SkinnyChef

It concerns me that lanolin is WAY down on the list, and the rest are unnatural chemicals that can be especially harmful to your face (see all the different sodiums, I could list others). My guess is that you could do some research (if I get time I will do it and post it here), but the end result will be an expensive, albeit heavenly, product.

Just because something says sodium doesn't mean it isn't natural. For example, table salt (sodium choloride) has a "chemically" sounding name, but is perfectly natural.

If you handle the soap itself, it is very soft and oily.

you are absolutely right, sodium and such can be, and mostly are, natural or at least naturally-derived. However, that does NOT make it good for your skin. Most serve as preservatives which tend to dry your skin out, not heal it. The soap may feel nice and soft, but petroleum jelly is nice and soft too. However, anything petroleum is not good for your skin, especially around your face. (just and example).
lanolin is a terrific thing, but since it is almost a pure animal-derived fat, it is prone to going rancid, and fast. Olive oil (and grapeseed oil as well) are more stable, don't need preservatives, and are excellent. Both for moisturizing and for nourishing delicate skin. Makes it strong, soft, and supple.
I used to use "lanolin" for moisturizing and for chapped lips. Nothing compared. The difference was that I rendered the lamb fat myself and there were no chemicals to interfere with what God put there to begin with. I tell you now, no other "lanolin" has compared. Expense and convenience become an issue, however.
I know everyone says don't trust a skinny chef, and I am a noob. But, trust me on this nutrition-related question, use the evoo. You will thank me later. Promise or I'm buying.

I've got a great love of olive oil, so I'll give it a shot.

I've also got some extra MWF laying around. I bought 3 pucks, and the stuff lasts FOREVER! I can send you a small chunk if you want to try it out yourself. If you are interested, just send me a PM.

Here is some more info on MWF from their site:

Mitchell's Wool Fat Soap was first produced in the early 1930's by Bradford chemist Fred Mitchell who realised that the natural lanolin content of wool fat, which kept the hands of local sheep shearers and wool sorters so exceptionally soft, could also be beneficial to delicate complexions and sensitive skins

A simple and natural product, Mitchell's Wool Fat Soap is still made to Mr. Mitchell's original formula, based on a recipe from the turn of the century and incorporating lanolin from the wool fat as the key ingredient.

Although no medical claims are made for it, this very gentle soap is particularly soothing to sensitive skins and has often been recommended by members of the medical profession to help alleviate certain skin complaints.

From its early loyal following of mainly local customers, the reputation of Mitchell's Wool Fat Soap has grown and it is now in great demand not only in the British Isles but in Europe, Australia, Japan and the USA.

Originally Posted by SkinnyChef

It concerns me that lanolin is WAY down on the list, and the rest are unnatural chemicals that can be especially harmful to your face (see all the different sodiums, I could list others). My guess is that you could do some research (if I get time I will do it and post it here), but the end result will be an expensive, albeit heavenly, product.

As promised, I did some research about absolutely pure lanolin and I was surprised at how fast and easy it was to find (it was in my medicine chest), as well as (relatively) inexpensive.

The product is called Lansinoh, and it is the purest form of lanolin on the market (in fact, it is the only ingredient on the list!!!). The product was designed for breastfeeding mothers to soothe cracked, dry, sore nipples, but it is amazing, obviously, as a skin nourishing agent. It is also extremely easy to find and not as expensive as other things.

I still hold to the evoo, however, for many reasons, not the least of which is it's non-animal fat-based nourishing properties.

Originally Posted by SkinnyChef

As promised, I did some research about absolutely pure lanolin and I was surprised at how fast and easy it was to find (it was in my medicine chest), as well as (relatively) inexpensive.

The product is called Lansinoh, and it is the purest form of lanolin on the market (in fact, it is the only ingredient on the list!!!). The product was designed for breastfeeding mothers to soothe cracked, dry, sore nipples, but it is amazing, obviously, as a skin nourishing agent. It is also extremely easy to find and not as expensive as other things.

I still hold to the evoo, however, for many reasons, not the least of which is it's non-animal fat-based nourishing properties.

Nice. I'm going to see if my local walgreens or cvs can get it.

Originally Posted by markevens

Nice. I'm going to see if my local walgreens or cvs can get it.

They should have it in stock. If not find a babies r us store. They will definitely have it (that's where we got ours).

I found some. It is quite thick (thicker than toothpaste) and needs some serious rubbing between the fingers to soften it up to a state that is applicable to my face.

I'm thinking Lansinoh may work better as a post shave treatment, than preshave.

I recently ordered some Liquid Lanolin.
NOW Foods - Liquid Lanolin Pure - 4 oz
I hope it's good.

--Shoki

Originally Posted by markevens

I found some. It is quite thick (thicker than toothpaste) and needs some serious rubbing between the fingers to soften it up to a state that is applicable to my face.

Since my earlier post I have been playing with it, trying to find its nuances. I find that applying a french pea-sized amount to your hands and rubbing vigorously to spread over your hands, then applying to face and working in real good works fairly well. I agree that post-shave is probably better, even using daily as a moisturizer and conditioner.

I like Shoki's find...the liquid lanolin. Seems awesome and I will be looking into it. Used the link, but didn't seem possible to purchase from there.