DIY Shaving Cream: How To Make A Fluffy, Moisturizing Foam At Home

Perhaps you haven't really thought twice about your shaving cream. Allow us to remind you: A moisturizing agent is essential before taking a razor to the skin, as it softens the hairs and allows for a closer glide. But think twice before reaching for the aerosol can; while those traditional creams can give you the perfect little sphere of foam, they also typically contain harsh ingredients like formaldehyde, parabens, and phthalates. 

The solution? Turn to DIY. 

Full disclosure: This isn't your typical shaving cream that foams upon application. But that's a good thing; many traditional options contain chemical-laden formulas within aerosol containers, which is what gives those conventional creams their foamy consistency.  

That's not to say you can't mimic those commercial creams (they are fun to slather on, after all). Marisa Plescia, research scientist at clean beauty e-tailer NakedPoppy, explains that you can definitely recreate a "whipped" natural oil and butter-based product. It works just as well, and better yet, it "will make your skin feel especially silky-smooth." 

As for the method, all you need to do is mix the shea butter and coconut oil with a standup or electric mixer (you can also use an immersion blender, if you don't have any mixers on hand) until the formula has a whipped consistency. Once you have your whipped texture, fold in any optional add-ins. You want the texture to be "light and creamy with no chunks," says Jana Blankenship, product formulator and founder of the natural beauty brand Captain Blankenship.

A couple of tips to keep in mind: If you find the shea butter is too difficult to whip, Plescia says you can simply melt the butter and oil together, then refrigerate until it cools to a semisolid state. "That would be easier to whip with a mixer," she notes. 

As for the additional ingredients, aloe vera gel or juice is great to add if you have sensitive skin. As you may know, aloe has anti-inflammatory properties1 that can make your shave cream extra soothing. In fact, you can find aloe in a ton of professional products, due to its ability to calm any nicks and scrapes as you shave. On that note, essential oils can provide a personalized scent (Blankenship is partial to eucalyptus, lavender, chamomile, or peppermint essential oils), but those with sensitive skin may want to proceed with caution: Essential oils have the potential to become irritating when used at high concentrations.