Skin Care Oils
What is my oil used for?
Oil can be used to soften and nourish the skin and hair. Oil can also be used to shave with.
The oil I use is equal parts unrefined shea butter and extra virgin olive oil, with just a dash of tea tree oil. The shea butter is solid and must be melted in the microwave prior to mixing. After the liquid ingredients are mixed into the melted shea butter and the mixture allowed to cool it will solidify. To use, scoop a small amount out with a finger and rub between the hands. The heat from your hands will liquefy the mixture. It can then be rubbed into your skin or hair. If a liquid oil is desired use 2 parts olive oil to one part shea butter.
This mixture can also be rubbed into the beard prior to shaving. Then either shave cream can put on prior to shaving, or water can be splashed on the oiled face and the face can be shaved. The secret of shaving with oil is to wet the face before and after applying a small quantity of oil. If the face needs additional lubrication after a pass then splash more water on the face, not more oil. This method works well with straight razors as the oil does not clog them.
Making your own liquid shave oil
There are a number of commercial liquid oils on the market for shaving. I did some research on this a while back and here are some of the oils in the commercial shave oil products. Essential oils can be left out, as they just add fragrance and can cause irritation.
Basically any of these base oils singly or in combination will work. You just need to find the best mix for yourself.
Grapeseed oil/Olive Oil/Jojoba/Sunflower Oil/Castor Oil/Safflower Oil
you can add small amounts of the skin conditioners
Tea Tree Oil/Shea Oil/Vitamin E
if you wish. You can experiment with the above to find what combinations work best for you.