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Tip Store: Beauty: Shaving
Get Up To Six Times the Life from Your Razor Blades!
I recently purchased the Razor Pitt Blade Sharpener from the Shaver Shop and I was so impressed with it I had to share. At $29.95 it was not cheap but any disposable razor can be sharpened to give up to 150 shaves. We have been using it for the last month, it takes two seconds to sharpen the blade and it is like a new razor every time. With my husband favouring good quality 3-blade razors this should pay for itself within 6 months as well as taking one more expensive item off the shopping list. Contributed by Nelly Bidduplh, 1st October 2013
Get Ready for Summer with this MOO Aftershave
Approximate $ Savings: $8-$20 per 100 mL
I have found a homemade aftershave solution that combats acne, blemishes, ugly razor bumps and ingrown hairs just in time for summer, with ingredients you may have in your cupboard.
To make the solution, put 150mLs of rubbing alcohol (Isocol) into a glass with 18 aspirin. Then get a second glass, add 75mLs of witch hazel and drop 8 aspirin into the second glass. Let the aspirin dissolve in both glasses, stir it around and then add the solution to a recycled jar with a tight lid. The aspirin won’t completely dissolve, so just shake before each use and apply to the affected area with a cotton wool ball.
You should see results within hours for both men and women. It can also be applied to acne or blemishes with great results.
The total cost is free if you already have the ingredients, but if you make it up it should cost about $7.30 (witch hazel = $1.90, isocol $4.35, aspirin $1.05). This is so much cheaper than store brought ingrown hair/razor bump solutions, which range from $14 - $40 for so much less product!
Contributed by Leah Doyle, 27 September 2013
I have found a homemade aftershave solution that combats acne, blemishes, ugly razor bumps and ingrown hairs just in time for summer, with ingredients you may have in your cupboard.
To make the solution, put 150mLs of rubbing alcohol (Isocol) into a glass with 18 aspirin. Then get a second glass, add 75mLs of witch hazel and drop 8 aspirin into the second glass. Let the aspirin dissolve in both glasses, stir it around and then add the solution to a recycled jar with a tight lid. The aspirin won’t completely dissolve, so just shake before each use and apply to the affected area with a cotton wool ball.
You should see results within hours for both men and women. It can also be applied to acne or blemishes with great results.
The total cost is free if you already have the ingredients, but if you make it up it should cost about $7.30 (witch hazel = $1.90, isocol $4.35, aspirin $1.05). This is so much cheaper than store brought ingrown hair/razor bump solutions, which range from $14 - $40 for so much less product!
Contributed by Leah Doyle, 27 September 2013
Bay West Indies Aftershave
Ingredients:
2 cups of witch hazel
30ml rum
zest from one organic orange
1 cinnamon stick
3-5 cloves
3-5 whole allspice
1/2 teaspoon glycerine
1/2 teaspoon aloe vera
25 drops Bay West Indies Essential Oil
Method:
Step 1. Add the orange zest, cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice, glycerine and aloe vera to a 600ml jar.
Step 2. Add the rum.
Step 3. Add the witch hazel. Shake to combine.
Step 4. Add the 25 drops of Bay West Indies essential oil. Cover with a tight fitting lid and shake well to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Place in the fridge and shake daily for 4 weeks.
Step 5. Once the aftershave has steeped for four weeks strain it through a coffee filter (you may need to repeat this a couple of times to get a clear aftershave). Store in dark, glass bottles (again, re-use empty aftershave bottles). This recipe makes enough to fill two 250ml bottles.
Note: You can buy Bay West Indies essential oil online or at most health food shops. It is a very strong scent so add the suggested 25 drops and then test the fragrance. If it's not strong enough add another 5 drops and test again.
Tip of the Day, Monday 18th March 2013
2 cups of witch hazel
30ml rum
zest from one organic orange
1 cinnamon stick
3-5 cloves
3-5 whole allspice
1/2 teaspoon glycerine
1/2 teaspoon aloe vera
25 drops Bay West Indies Essential Oil
Method:
Step 1. Add the orange zest, cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice, glycerine and aloe vera to a 600ml jar.
Step 2. Add the rum.
Step 3. Add the witch hazel. Shake to combine.
Step 4. Add the 25 drops of Bay West Indies essential oil. Cover with a tight fitting lid and shake well to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Place in the fridge and shake daily for 4 weeks.
Step 5. Once the aftershave has steeped for four weeks strain it through a coffee filter (you may need to repeat this a couple of times to get a clear aftershave). Store in dark, glass bottles (again, re-use empty aftershave bottles). This recipe makes enough to fill two 250ml bottles.
Note: You can buy Bay West Indies essential oil online or at most health food shops. It is a very strong scent so add the suggested 25 drops and then test the fragrance. If it's not strong enough add another 5 drops and test again.
Tip of the Day, Monday 18th March 2013
Happy Lathering with Natural Shaving Soap
I use Corynne's Natural Shaving Soap which foams into a nice lather using any generic shaving brush (safe for shaving any body part on both males and females). The 180gram container costs $19.95 and lathers really and you can buy from www.soaps.net.au. If you don't rinse your shaving brush you can make it go even further and use the brush for many shaves after without the tub. I have used this product for years and have been able to make one tub last for over a year!
Contributed by Kristi, 14th March 2013
Contributed by Kristi, 14th March 2013
Simple Aftershave
Ingredients:
1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
1/2 cup water
1 tsp. cologne, more or less*
Method:
Step 1. Mix rubbing alcohol and water.
Step 2. Add your favourite cologne. Shake to mix. Store in a clean bottle - recycle an empty aftershave bottle if you have one.
Note: Use samples of your favourite cologne, like the little ones you collect from department stores, they are usually the right size.
Tip of the Day, Monday 18th March 2013
1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
1/2 cup water
1 tsp. cologne, more or less*
Method:
Step 1. Mix rubbing alcohol and water.
Step 2. Add your favourite cologne. Shake to mix. Store in a clean bottle - recycle an empty aftershave bottle if you have one.
Note: Use samples of your favourite cologne, like the little ones you collect from department stores, they are usually the right size.
Tip of the Day, Monday 18th March 2013
Peppermint Fresh Aftershave
Ingredients:
30ml peppermint essential oil
1 cup rubbing alcohol
1/2 cup witch hazel
30ml lavender essential oil
60ml glycerine
15ml eucalyptus essential oil
A clean, empty bottle
Method:
Step 1. Combine the rubbing alcohol, witch hazel and glycerine in a clean jar and shake hard to mix thoroughly.
Step 2. Add the essential oils in slowly, especially the lavender since you don't want to overdo it.
Step 3. Close the jar and shake thoroughly. Refrigerate the ingredients for three or four days and shake it about once a day.
Step 4. Your aftershave is ready. Remember to shake the bottle well before each use.
Tip of the Day, Monday 18th March 2013
30ml peppermint essential oil
1 cup rubbing alcohol
1/2 cup witch hazel
30ml lavender essential oil
60ml glycerine
15ml eucalyptus essential oil
A clean, empty bottle
Method:
Step 1. Combine the rubbing alcohol, witch hazel and glycerine in a clean jar and shake hard to mix thoroughly.
Step 2. Add the essential oils in slowly, especially the lavender since you don't want to overdo it.
Step 3. Close the jar and shake thoroughly. Refrigerate the ingredients for three or four days and shake it about once a day.
Step 4. Your aftershave is ready. Remember to shake the bottle well before each use.
Tip of the Day, Monday 18th March 2013
Soft Legs
When shaving is to use hair conditioner, rub onto area before shaving. It will leave legs and underarms soft.
Try this Conditioning Shaving Cream
Sick of buying different hair conditioner - only to find it doesn't do the job or smells terrible. Well, here is another use for all those leftovers or rejects! You can use the hair conditioner easily on your legs, underarms or any place you would like to shave - the razor glides smoothly over your skin, it even reduces the wear on the razor and does a fantastic job while leaving your skin smooth and soft. It also reduces the amount you carry in your toiletry bag when on holidays - my conditioner now does two jobs. If you don't have any leftover conditioner, cheap brands do just as good a job and can be purchased in budget priced 1 litre containers for a fraction of the cost of expensive shaving creams.
- Contributed by Vicki Melonas, 26th July 2010
- Contributed by Vicki Melonas, 26th July 2010
DIY Day Spa
Approximate $ Savings: $90 per month
I love the convenience of waxing - hair grows back thinner, only have to do it once a month or so, no nicks or cuts. The only thing was it was costing me around $90 per month! $80 for the waxing and $10 in petrol travelling back and forth to the beautician. Not to mention the constant temptation to purchase all the associated beauty products that one can easily be talked into whilst they are having hair ripped from their body! Then a routine clean up unearthed a handy little machine I had purchased in the early 90s - one of those epilators that plucks the hair out with similar results to waxing. They are still available to purchase and cost less than 1 waxing session. So now I have my monthly 'day spa' - a bath, hair removal, pedicure and facial using a bowl of hot water and towel and mud mask I found in the back of the bathroom cupboard!
- Contributed by Mel Ross, 20th June 2010
I love the convenience of waxing - hair grows back thinner, only have to do it once a month or so, no nicks or cuts. The only thing was it was costing me around $90 per month! $80 for the waxing and $10 in petrol travelling back and forth to the beautician. Not to mention the constant temptation to purchase all the associated beauty products that one can easily be talked into whilst they are having hair ripped from their body! Then a routine clean up unearthed a handy little machine I had purchased in the early 90s - one of those epilators that plucks the hair out with similar results to waxing. They are still available to purchase and cost less than 1 waxing session. So now I have my monthly 'day spa' - a bath, hair removal, pedicure and facial using a bowl of hot water and towel and mud mask I found in the back of the bathroom cupboard!
- Contributed by Mel Ross, 20th June 2010
Silky Smooth Legs
Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.
- Contributed by Zora, Sydenham, 18th May 2009
Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.
- Contributed by Zora, Sydenham, 18th May 2009
Beautiful, Smooth Legs
Approximate $ Savings: $50-$100 per year or more!
Save money, save time, save water. I don't bother spending money on expensive shaving creams. I shave my legs once I get OUT of the shower whilst my legs are still wet, using a a little bit of sorbelene (only $3 for a huge bottle). You don't need to rinse it off, just shave and rub in the residue. This saves water as you don't waste time in the shower, saves time shaving and then having to moisturise and saves money and you will have beautiful, smooth legs!
- Contributed by Nikki, Point Cook, 7th May 2009
Save money, save time, save water. I don't bother spending money on expensive shaving creams. I shave my legs once I get OUT of the shower whilst my legs are still wet, using a a little bit of sorbelene (only $3 for a huge bottle). You don't need to rinse it off, just shave and rub in the residue. This saves water as you don't waste time in the shower, saves time shaving and then having to moisturise and saves money and you will have beautiful, smooth legs!
- Contributed by Nikki, Point Cook, 7th May 2009
Soft Shaving Gel
Rub a little cheap shampoo (basically what is used in shaving gels) between the palms of your hands. Quickly massage all over the lower half of one leg. Shave and rinse the shaver repeatedly in warm water - I do it all in the shower whilst waiting for the hair conditioner to 'cure' when I wash my hair. Repeat for the other lower leg. Do the upper legs if you wish. Then rinse out hair conditioner.
- Contributed by Suzanne, Goodwood, 7th December 2009
- Contributed by Suzanne, Goodwood, 7th December 2009
More Use From Disposable Razors
Approximate $ Savings: $85 year
I use a razor a week to shave my whole body. My husband uses a razor every 2 days to shave his face, and then he gets a new one. Men need a super close shave because it's on their face. I just need the hair gone. So one day out of desperation I used one of his old razors and it worked just fine. Now I never buy razors, I just use one that he is finished with, once, and then throw it out. It has saved me $85 a year in razors.
- Contributed by Rebecca, Woodside, 27th April 2010
I use a razor a week to shave my whole body. My husband uses a razor every 2 days to shave his face, and then he gets a new one. Men need a super close shave because it's on their face. I just need the hair gone. So one day out of desperation I used one of his old razors and it worked just fine. Now I never buy razors, I just use one that he is finished with, once, and then throw it out. It has saved me $85 a year in razors.
- Contributed by Rebecca, Woodside, 27th April 2010
Shaving Cream, Not Just for Men
Have you noticed how shaving cream is more expensive for women? For the past two years I've been using men's shaving cream and have been reaping the savings. At the end of the day it does the same job but for half the cost! Give it a go!
- Contributed by Michelle, Heidelberg Heights, 25th August 2009
Editor's Note: You can give shaving cream the flick and use hair conditioner! It makes a great "shaving cream" and leaves skin soft. It's suitable for men and women and a cheap conditioner can be as little as $1.99 a litre, so much cheaper. Put a pump top onto the bottle and it will last for ages. Cath
- Contributed by Michelle, Heidelberg Heights, 25th August 2009
Editor's Note: You can give shaving cream the flick and use hair conditioner! It makes a great "shaving cream" and leaves skin soft. It's suitable for men and women and a cheap conditioner can be as little as $1.99 a litre, so much cheaper. Put a pump top onto the bottle and it will last for ages. Cath
Saving on Home Waxing
Approximate $ Savings: $400 per year
I have a tip that could save you up to $400 a year or even more just on waxing. I have been doing this for twenty years now and have saved thousands on trips to the beautician. I buy Veet wax strips from Priceline or my local supermarket (whenever on special) for about $10. Use however many strips needed for your legs and bikini line but keep 1 strip to cut into smaller strips (I cut in half longways then cut each strip about 0.5cm to 1cm wide) which I then use to wax eyebrows, lip, etc. Don't throw out the ends that have no wax on them - use them to pick up any residue wax left on your skin. I then use baby oil to moisturise the skin - I'm still using the same bottle from 1989!! Hope this helps!
- Contributed by Joanne, Narre Warren South, 13th October 2009
I have a tip that could save you up to $400 a year or even more just on waxing. I have been doing this for twenty years now and have saved thousands on trips to the beautician. I buy Veet wax strips from Priceline or my local supermarket (whenever on special) for about $10. Use however many strips needed for your legs and bikini line but keep 1 strip to cut into smaller strips (I cut in half longways then cut each strip about 0.5cm to 1cm wide) which I then use to wax eyebrows, lip, etc. Don't throw out the ends that have no wax on them - use them to pick up any residue wax left on your skin. I then use baby oil to moisturise the skin - I'm still using the same bottle from 1989!! Hope this helps!
- Contributed by Joanne, Narre Warren South, 13th October 2009
Saving on Shaving
Approximate $ Savings: $100 a year
I find razor blades are very expensive to buy, especially when I am buying them for my husband to use for his face and for me to shave my legs with. As a student trying to save money, I decided to stop buying razor blades to shave my legs with and just use my husband's after he had finished using them to shave his face. I bought a reusable razor once and then just used the refills after hubby was done with them. They are still sharp as he can't use them on his face until they are blunt and I just use them a few more times and then get the next one when he's finished with it. It saves me a lot of money per year and in this day and age of trying to make a little go a long way, it's a welcome saving on what can be a big expense.
- Contributed by Mal, Boondall, 3rd November 2009
I find razor blades are very expensive to buy, especially when I am buying them for my husband to use for his face and for me to shave my legs with. As a student trying to save money, I decided to stop buying razor blades to shave my legs with and just use my husband's after he had finished using them to shave his face. I bought a reusable razor once and then just used the refills after hubby was done with them. They are still sharp as he can't use them on his face until they are blunt and I just use them a few more times and then get the next one when he's finished with it. It saves me a lot of money per year and in this day and age of trying to make a little go a long way, it's a welcome saving on what can be a big expense.
- Contributed by Mal, Boondall, 3rd November 2009
Cheaper Moisturising Shave Cream
I have just been reading your latest newsletter which mentions shaving cream. The best of all is Sorbolene cream. It is cheap, you don't need much and you don't need to moisturise afterwards. My husband uses it every day and he adds a little water to the cream when it is on his face. I do the same for underarms and legs.
- Contributed by June Gregg, 23rd September 2009
- Contributed by June Gregg, 23rd September 2009
Swap to a Men's Razor, They Last Longer!
Just read Barbara from Melbourne's tip about using Men's shaving cream. My hubby and I both have Gillette razors - me the Venus and him the Mach 3. I have found the men's razors to be longer lasting. It has been suggested this is because they are designed to cut the thicker, coarser hair of a mans face, so using it on my legs and arm pits is nothing for the blades. They come in larger boxes and are cheaper than the equivalent ladies blades. Watch out though, the Gillette Fusion blades do not fit the Venus or Mach 3.
Razor Savings
Approximate $ Savings: $200 - $800 per year
Instead of buying and replacing very costly disposable razors every time you shave, store your used one in a little olive oil to prevent rusting as this is what makes it blunt for the next shave. One razor will then last you a few months.
- Contributed by Tracey, Kirrawee, 26th August 2008
Instead of buying and replacing very costly disposable razors every time you shave, store your used one in a little olive oil to prevent rusting as this is what makes it blunt for the next shave. One razor will then last you a few months.
- Contributed by Tracey, Kirrawee, 26th August 2008
No Pain!
To drastically cut pain when having eyebrow's or lips waxed, apply baby teething gel such as Bonjella to the area to be waxed 5 minutes before waxing! No more wincing and tears!
- Contributed by Lauren, Mill Park, 23rd September 2008
- Contributed by Lauren, Mill Park, 23rd September 2008
Soothing After Shave Cream
Keeping the Cutting Edge
My husband likes to leave his razor in a cup with a small amount of olive oil (enough to cover the head of the razor). This keeps the razor blades clean and sharper for much longer, they will last up to 6 months rather than only getting 6 uses for each razor.
- Contributed by Melissa, North Richmond, 19th August 2008
- Contributed by Melissa, North Richmond, 19th August 2008
A little Savlon rubbed on areas after shaving prevents any uncomfortable razor rash. It doesn't sting like expensive after shave products and is a cheap alternative to purchasing multiple scratch/blemish products with no side effects from harsh chemicals or perfumes.
- Contributed by Ann, Sinnamon Park, 4th January 2008
- Contributed by Ann, Sinnamon Park, 4th January 2008
Bulk Buy Razors to Save
Approximate $ Savings: $10
Men: Razor blades are expensive, especially if you use the newest 40 blade razor. They can cost about $23 for 4 blades. If you buy in bulk on eBay, can get about 30% off the retail price.
- Contributed by David, Asquith, 5th August, 2007
Men: Razor blades are expensive, especially if you use the newest 40 blade razor. They can cost about $23 for 4 blades. If you buy in bulk on eBay, can get about 30% off the retail price.
- Contributed by David, Asquith, 5th August, 2007
Razor Blade Saver
Razor blades are expensive and I've found a great way that keeps them sharper longer. In a small saucer I put some oil (olive/vegetable) and this keeps the rust at bay. The oil also makes shaving easier, hence I don't need to use as much shaving cream and that's also a saving.
- Contributed by Matthew, Northcote, December 22nd 2006
- Contributed by Matthew, Northcote, December 22nd 2006
A Different Shaving Cream
Approximate $ Savings: $90.00
I have found that generic hair conditioner is a great substitute for shaving cream when shaving your legs. It gives a smooth shave and doesn't irritate my sensitive skin.
- Contributed by Tonia, Gloucester, 17th October 2007
Hair Free in Minutes
If you're rushed for time and need to shave your legs apply baby oil liberally and shave with a dry razor, use a dry wash cloth to rub away any excess oil and hairs - your legs will be moisturised and hair free in minutes and you're ready to go. A grocery branded 500ml baby oil will last for ages. I've found a pack of Aldi razors are most economical as well - just rinse under hot water tap or save water and stir in a cup of hot water to loosen hairs and allow to dry ready for the next use.
Shaving
If you use those aerosol cans of shaving cream or gel and you get to the so-called end of the can try dropping the whole tin in your hot shaving water. Leave for a few seconds and then try again. The heat causes a build up of pressure inside the can, which in turn forces the last bit of cream or gel out of it. I have had up to ten more shaves after the tin shows empty. Getting more for your buck.
- Contributed by Rob, Ormiston, 13th September 2006
- Contributed by Rob, Ormiston, 13th September 2006
Shaving Gently
If you have an electric shaver eg. Emjoi Gently, for your underarms and legs, before using it put some baby powder on your body and the pain won't be as bad.
- Contributed by Joanne, August 18th 2006
- Contributed by Joanne, August 18th 2006
Shaving
A good substitute for shaving-cream is any Hair Conditioner. This also has the advantage of being see-through, handy if trimming the edges of a beard-line, or side-burns. When travelling, it makes for one less product to pack!
- Contributed by Brian, Beacon Cove, September 1st 2006
- Contributed by Brian, Beacon Cove, September 1st 2006