Image: istockphoto.com/Graça Victoria
Hidden carcinogens
Most of the leading brands of shaving creams contain triethanolamine (TEA) or diethanolamine (DEA). Both act as an emulsifier, preservative and foaming agent and both have been linked to liver and kidney tumours. They also can irritate the skin and hair. A healthier alternative is to choose shaving creams with natural ingredients.
Pre-shave prep makes all the difference
Experts agree that the number one secret to a great shave is the pre-shave. A clean face helps prevent ingrown hairs, infections and those annoying shaving bumps. Get your skin ready by wrapping your face in a damp, warm towel (just like the barber does) or by taking a shower.
Dr. Hauschka sells cleansing milk made with grain extracts that leaves the skin hydrated and the beard supple. The Art of Shaving Pre-Shave Oil has aromatherapy oils like lavender for softening the beard and preparing the skin. If you are using an electric razor then some kind of pre-shave oil is highly recommended.
Gel or cream?
What man hasn't faced the dilemma of what to use for shaving? Shaving creams retain water and make for a smoother shave while shaving gels give a closer shave. Avoid products with alcohol combined with synthetic substances since these can actually stiffen the beard.
Aveda offers a shave cream with an aloe extract, coconut-derived glycerin, lavender and peppermint extract that gives a close, smooth shave and helps prevents nicks. The Rosemary-Mint shaving gel is also good for a friction-free shave. Aubrey Organics has a new Men's Stock line with shaving creams made with organic avocado oil, wheatgerm oil and witch hazel with fresh scents of pine, cedar, sandalwood and bergamot.
Greenest shave of all
Many dermatologists recommend using a shaving brush and shaving soap since the brush works the soap into the hair bristles, making the shave closer and less irritating. This is also the most enviro-friendly shave since the shaving brush never gets thrown away and the soap, which lasts more months, comes in a reusable bowl or mug.
A badger hair shaving brush is considered de rigueur for a comfortable wet shave since badger hair holds onto water and can evenly distribute the lather over your beard. These brushes are more expensive than others but will last a lifetime. The famous Taylor of Old Bond Street also sells some imitation badger brushes for those on a budget.
The key to a good shaving soap is one without a strong fragrance. A Wild Soap Bar sells Sassafras Shaving Soap made with cold pressed olive oil and aloe juice for a rich creamy lather.
Probably the most luxurious soap comes from one of London's oldest pharmacies, the 200-year-old D R Harris & Co Ltd. It's renowned for its shaving products and has been the chemist to the Royal family for generations. The majority of their products are still handmade using traditional methods. Their delicious lavender or almond shaving soap comes in an elegant beech or mahogany bowl and lasts for months. You can shop online for both Harris and Bond products at The Trafalgar Shop.
Shaving oils are a recent addition to the lineup and are preferred by men sporting a beard or moustache who need a precision shave. Men who shave their heads have also found that the oils give them a closer shave. Any organic oil suitable for skin can be used but be sure to avoid oils that have been combined with cyclomethicone, laureth-4 or tBHQ as these ingredients are carcinogenic.
The final step
Your skin will need some help to recover so an aftershave treatment is important. Lotions containing alcohol should be avoided since they irritate and dry out the skin. Instead go with an aftershave from Herban Cowboy with conditioning carrot, cucumber and collagen. Or try the Organic Herb After-Shave Splash from the Pioneer Heritage Shoppe with aloe and witch hazel. Aveda and Aubrey Organics also have soothing aftershave balms.
Going green with your shave will make your skin healthier. You may even start to enjoy shaving!
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