Most people use a shaving cream when shaving their face, legs, or “other” sensitive areas when they have their razor in hand. Whether you have sensitive skin that burns with shaving cream, you’re concerned about the chemicals that go into preserving the foamy product, or you just hate cleaning the gunk out of your tub or sink, using an effective alternative to shaving cream may be the best option for your shaving needs.
Your daily lotion or conditioner is enough to use as a shaving cream, either for your face or legs. Many people are sensitive to shaving cream and don’t like the burning it provides on the face, legs, and other areas. Using a conditioner or lotion you use daily can be a wonderful remedy for your sensitive skin when shaving. I often use conditioner to shave my legs, and I love it as it leaves my legs less dry and itchy afterward. My boyfriend has used lotion as a last resort while shaving his face, and was surprised how well it worked.
Baby oil is great for hydrating and soothing your skin while you shave. I know people who add baby oil to their bathwater (a few tablespoons) to soften the water while they bathe, and actually shave sans anything but the water! They love how smooth their skin feels, and no stinging from shaving! You can add baby oil to your loofah, to your water, or just rub it on your shaving areas prior to shaving. I’ve been warned though that using baby oil in the tub can make your hair greasy if you use too much, so take care.
Some people swear by creamy peanut butter (mixed with water or cooking oil if too thick) to work better than shaving cream in shaving various parts of their body, particularly the face. Not my cup of tea particularly, as I’ve tried peanut butter as a hair conditioner before and had a hell of a time getting the scent out (took a few days but did have silkier, nicer hair). I would recommend Shea butter, almond oil, or apricot oil instead. But by all means, try good old peanut butter if you have nothing else or just plain want to try it.
Also, I have known people who have used mayonnaise as a last resort, or just plain goofing off. While mayo is great on bread, it stinks in the tub or shower and I wouldn’t use it.
Dish soap is a foamy alternative that has low skin irritation if you like a foamy shaving cream. Dish soap comes in lots of yummy scents, from lavender to vanilla to floral bouquet, and is a nice, smooth shaving cream.
There are many products that can be used in lieu of shaving cream, and with a little creativity you can find one that works out great for you.
