Learning how to make aftershave is simple with this easy, natural recipe.
This homemade aftershave looks attractive, smells great, and feels soothing on the skin. Made from gentle, natural ingredients, it’s an effective way to calm skin after shaving and reduce the chance of razor burn.
This post was originally published in December 2019
Whether you shave occasionally or daily, this calming aftershave helps close pores, soothes irritation, and minimizes razor bumps. I first made this for my husband over a decade ago; since then I’ve adopted it myself and love the results.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Aftershave
- Alcohol-free to avoid drying the skin over time.
- No artificial fragrances or synthetic ingredients.
- Soothing and cooling, ideal for sensitive post-shave skin.
- Reusable glass bottle and natural ingredients make it eco-friendly.
- Customizable essential oil blends provide pleasant scents and added skin benefits.
What Is Aftershave and What Does It Do?
Aftershave is applied after shaving to soothe and protect freshly shaved skin. Shaving can leave tiny cuts and open pores, which are vulnerable to bacteria and irritation. A good aftershave cleans, calms, and helps close pores to reduce bumps and razor burn.
This recipe uses witch hazel, aloe vera juice, and vegetable glycerin to cleanse, hydrate, and soothe the skin without harsh drying alcohol. With a few drops of essential oil, it also doubles as a light, natural scent.
Ingredients
- Witch hazel – A gentle astringent and antiseptic that helps clean the skin and reduce irritation without the drying effects of alcohol.
- Aloe vera juice – Use the juice (not the gel) for hydration and its soothing, wound-healing properties.
- Vegetable glycerin – Keeps the ingredients combined and provides extra moisture for soft, smooth skin.
- Essential oils – Add fragrance and optional skin benefits; use one of the suggested blends or create your own.
How to Make Aftershave
Step 1. Combine witch hazel, aloe vera juice, and vegetable glycerin in a glass spray bottle. Secure the lid and shake to blend.
Step 2. Add essential oils, tighten the sprayer, and shake again to distribute the oils evenly.
How to Use Aftershave
Spray directly onto shaved skin, avoiding the eyes and any broken or sensitive areas. Use after each shave to calm irritation and help prevent razor burn.
Ingredients to Avoid
Many commercial aftershaves contain denatured alcohol or isopropyl alcohol, which can dry and irritate skin when used frequently. This recipe replaces alcohol with witch hazel to preserve antiseptic and astringent benefits without excessive drying.
Essential Oil Blends
Choose one of the blends below and add it to your aftershave for fragrance and added skin benefits. Adjust the number of drops to suit your preference—do not exceed recommended amounts in the safety notes.
Simple Earth
- 4 drops cypress
- 3 drops cedarwood
- 2 drops frankincense
Natural Forest
- 4 drops sandalwood
- 3 drops bergamot
- 2 drops patchouli
So Fresh
- 4 drops lemon
- 3 drops tangerine
- 2 drops rosemary
Gentle and Soothing
- 4 drops lavender
- 3 drops tea tree
- 2 drops frankincense
Cool and Refreshing
- 4 drops peppermint
- 3 drops eucalyptus
- 2 drops wintergreen
Safety Notes
Do not exceed 10 drops of essential oils per 2-ounce bottle. If you have sensitive skin, reduce to about 5 drops per bottle. Always perform a patch test before widespread use to check for sensitivity or allergic reactions.
How to Soothe Razor Burn Naturally
Applying aftershave immediately after shaving helps prevent razor burn, but if irritation does occur, try one of these simple remedies:
Coconut Oil
Gently massage a small amount of organic coconut oil onto the irritated area to help soothe dryness and support healing.
Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda and water into a paste, apply to the irritated skin, allow it to dry, then rinse with cool water.
Cool Compress
Apply an ice pack, cool cloth, or a bag of frozen vegetables to reduce swelling and calm irritation.
Tips & Tricks
- Use a sharp razor and a good shaving cream for the closest, least irritating shave.
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser before shaving to reduce the chance of irritation.
- Apply aftershave right after shaving to soothe and protect freshly shaved skin.
Recipe Summary
Homemade Aftershave
Ingredients
- ¼ cup witch hazel
- 1 teaspoon aloe vera juice (not gel)
- 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin
- 5–10 drops essential oils (see suggestions above)
Instructions
- Combine the witch hazel, aloe vera juice, and vegetable glycerin in a glass spray bottle.
- Add essential oils, secure the sprayer, and shake well to mix.
- Spray directly onto shaved skin, avoiding eyes and broken skin.
If you try this Homemade Aftershave or any other tutorial on the site, please leave a star rating and share your experience in the comments. Thanks for visiting!
This recipe is intended for personal use and informational purposes only. Perform your own tests and research before using any DIY product on your skin.