Thread: My own pre-shave oil

Originally Posted by Pacho53

Great thread! I'm really looking forward to reading how eflatminor's blend works out.

Okay, I've had several shaves to test out my blend. Overall, I'm pleased with the results. Compared to Castle Forbes pre shave balm and Taylor of Old Bond Street's Herbal Pre-Shave Gel, my blend is functionally similar. All three "work". The only down side to my home made blend is the greasy feeling left on my hands after I apply the oil to my face. I don't get that with the store bought products, but a quick hand washing takes care of the oil on my hands. Once I start shaving, it's really hard to tell the difference. Given the cost differential, I suspect I'll stick with the home made stuff.

I have somewhat oily skin, and although I don't have a real acne problem, I am prone to minor breakouts on occasion. Does anyone else have skin like this that uses a pre-shave oil blend? I'm a little worried that the oil might cause me problems.

Ok dumb question from a newbie to shaving with a str8.

Given the right mix of oils and after a hot shower or towel treatment.Could you skip the shave soap and just use the oil to get the razor to glide through the pre softened whiskers?If you use almond oil in your mix is this a nutty idea?

Originally Posted by Edwardd

Ok dumb question from a newbie to shaving with a str8.

Given the right mix of oils and after a hot shower or towel treatment.Could you skip the shave soap and just use the oil to get the razor to glide through the pre softened whiskers?If you use almond oil in your mix is this a nutty idea?

Sure you could and if you have extremely insensitive skin and a weak beard, you might end up avoiding razor burn. For most guys, you have to have treat whiskers with soap.

I have a bottle of the preshave oil from The Art of Shaving. I'm not too impressed with it, but when I'm done with it, I will definitely start making my own. I love this DIY aspect of this hobby!

Originally Posted by eflatminor

Sure you could and if you have extremely insensitive skin and a weak beard, you might end up avoiding razor burn. For most guys, you have to have treat whiskers with soap.

Ok I tried it on a small patch of my throat.Don't do it,all I can say is,ouch!!!Razor burn on high!Olive and grape seed oil mixed and then shave soap on top,after a hot shower.That makes a nice glide for me.

Hey if you don't ask and you don't try,how will you learn?

Originally Posted by Edwardd

Hey if you don't ask and you don't try,how will you learn?

I Think you are absolutely right, if you don't ask and don't try new approaches...stagnation will follow!

Originally Posted by eflatminor

... The only down side to my home made blend is the greasy feeling left on my hands after I apply the oil to my face.

I find the same "issue" with my own blend, I have to wash my hands after applying on face but just like you say, given the price difference who cares!

I'm happy to hear that you are happy with your blend. I'll sure try it when I run out of mine. I particularly liked the herbs infusion you mention in yours. Thanks for the tip!

What is the purpose of blending different oils? Why not just use one oil?

Originally Posted by pmburk

What is the purpose of blending different oils? Why not just use one oil?

To get the texture, weight and thickness that suits you. If you were to use olive oil unmixed it would be too thick and heavy and if you use almond oil only it would be too light and thin. Both of these oils would be fine to use unmixed though, providing their qualities on their own are what you are looking for.

When you mix oils you just tailor made your own oil to your specific taste and comfort.

All the best

Carlos