Journal

Fix yourself with nature: Soothing Shave Balm

Fix yourself with nature: Soothing Shave Balm

Fix yourself with nature series two continues - and what better way to breath hydration into damaged skin than with a soothing shave balm? In collaboration with naturopathic in training, Amy Pennington, Our green team have combined an array of nourishing ingredients to create a calming unisex shaving balm we think you’ll love.

Shaving can irritate any skin type, but the right shaving cream will turn this daily chore into a ritual to look forward to. The luxurious combination of shea butter, coconut oil and almond oil will hydrate your skin and reduce razor burn. Rosemary works as a natural astringent to combat ingrown hairs, and peppermint revives and cools.

This shaving balm contains only therapeutic ingredients so that means none of the harmful substances found in conventional shaving foam, such as phthalates, which disrupt hormone function; sodium lauryl sulfate, a potential cause of cell mutation; and parfum (fragrance), which can be any combination of untested chemicals. Cosmetics are not regulated in the same manner as foods, yet any chemicals applied to our skin will enter the bloodstream.

As winter approaches, our skin usually requires a little extra care due to vitamin A and D imbalances. These restorative oils will comfort dry skin and provide a protective layer to fend off the elements. Because this balm contains no soap, you won’t need to apply shaving oil afterwards.

Ingredients:

1/3 cup of shea butter
1/3 cup virgin coconut oil
1/4 cup sweet almond oil
10 drops rosemary oil
4 drops of peppermint oil

Method:

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the shea butter and coconut oil, stirring until just melted. Remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl. Add the sweet almond oil and essential oils. Stir to mix.

Place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill until solid. Remove from the refrigerator and whip using a hand beater until light and fluffy. Spoon into a lidded jar and keep in a cool, dry place.

Note:

Though this balm is great for sensitive skin types, always test on a small area first, just in case.

Recipe and words: Amy Pennington (Herbalist and naturopathic nutritionalist) Creative direction: Olivia Crighton
Photography: Laura Allard-Fleischl
Styling: Victoria Spicer