Over the past two years, I've made my own preshave oils, out of frustration with commercially sold preshave oils, namely AOS. It went rancid, fast, was too thick, and cost too much. Each time I've made new oils, I've made them thinner and thinner, but not too much. Thinner is better, it's easier to apply, and doesn't goop up the razor. Although, hot water does takes care of the goop. New formula: 1/2 Grapeseed Oil 1/4 Caster Oil 1/4 Olive Oil 1-2 drops rubbing alcohol(keeps it fresh, without going rancid) Sandalwood Oil about 10 drops(optional)
I generally use Grapeseed, Apricot Kernel, or Almond oil with various essential oils - Tea Tree, Calendula, Lime etc
Is AOS the only one you tried or you just didn't mention the others? Honestly I've tried numerous ones and one of the best is Shave Secret and it's dirt cheap at WallyWorld. It's very easy to get caught up in the school of thought that high priced items are better...that's not the case in this game. Case in point, Maggards and RazoRock synthetics...
I use pre-shave in the winter, mainly. I think it is awesome that you have come up with a good recipe. I played around with my own some, but just ended up buying Stirling's, and then stayed that way ever since. I keep a bottle of the Lime, and one of the Unscented. Never had any goop trouble, and I think it helps moisturize in the winter.
I've seen other brands out there, and figured I can make my own, for less than a dollar, for a small bottle. Also, I use it to moisturize the skin too.
Mine was always too thick, and I never really spent the time to dial it in. You are right, you could buy the all the stuff, and shave for years for the same price. Kinda fun to play, either way.
