Thread: Ingredient which burn

What ingredient causes the burning in most aftershaves? Some like Clubman don't burn much while one old favorite Canoe will light my fire even without a shave.

I have used 91% alcohol as a baseline and it is mild by comparison.

Its usually the alcohol content that gives the burn. Thats why the bay rums are usually pretty brutal. I myself like the burn though

I've been warned not to overdo the cinnamon or nutmeg in my home-made stuff by my soap making friend. If it'll burn on the tongue, it'll burn your face.

Alcohol is the culprit.

Natural scent oils can be really caustic but commercial products have controlled amounts. It's mainly home made stuff that can cause problems in that Dept.

In Bay Rum clove oil is the main irritant,plus the alcohol

Originally Posted by pixelfixed

In Bay Rum clove oil is the main irritant,plus the alcohol

Yeah, forgot about that one. Pure clove oil can be used to numb a tooth ache, but it'll burn the crap out of your gums.

It isn't the alcohol. I have used 91% isopropyl directly on my face and it stings somewhat but doesn't burn like many aftershaves.