Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation
Creating your own anti-microbial aftershave can be a valuable skill in survival scenarios where access to commercial products is limited. In such situations, maintaining hygiene is crucial for preventing infections and skin conditions. An anti-microbial aftershave not only soothes the skin after shaving but also helps in reducing the risk of bacterial infections, making it an essential item in your survival kit.
What You Need
Materials
- 1 cup distilled water
- 1/2 cup witch hazel
- 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
- 10 drops tea tree oil
- 10 drops lavender oil
- 10 drops peppermint oil
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 1 teaspoon colloidal silver (optional)
Tools
- A clean glass bottle with a lid
- A funnel
- A measuring cup
- A stirring stick or spoon
Knowledge
Understanding the properties of each ingredient is key. Witch hazel and tea tree oil have strong anti-microbial properties, while aloe vera and vitamin E oil help soothe and heal the skin. Vegetable glycerin acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to the skin.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a clean glass bottle, mix 1 cup of distilled water and 1/2 cup of witch hazel. Witch hazel acts as a natural astringent and helps in reducing inflammation.
- Add Soothing Agents: Add 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel and 1 tablespoon of vegetable glycerin to the mixture. Stir well to ensure both ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Essential Oils: Add 10 drops each of tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil. These oils not only provide a pleasant scent but also contribute to the anti-microbial properties of the aftershave.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If you have colloidal silver, add 1 teaspoon to the mixture. Colloidal silver is known for its anti-bacterial properties and can enhance the aftershave’s effectiveness.
- Final Touches: Add 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil to the mixture. Vitamin E oil helps in healing and protecting the skin.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a stirring stick or spoon to mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Ensure that everything is well combined before sealing the bottle.
- Store Properly: Seal the bottle tightly and store it in a cool, dry place. Shake well before each use to ensure all ingredients are mixed.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Using Non-Distilled Water: Always use distilled water to avoid introducing impurities or bacteria into your aftershave.
- Overuse of Essential Oils: Essential oils can be potent and may cause skin irritation if used in excess. Stick to the recommended quantities.
- Not Stirring Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well mixed to achieve a consistent product.
- Improper Storage: Store the aftershave in a cool, dry place to prevent contamination and spoilage.
Variations, Tips, and Related Techniques
- Customize the Scent: Experiment with different essential oils to create your preferred scent. Consider oils like lemon, eucalyptus, or rosemary.
- Adjust for Skin Sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin, reduce the amount of essential oils or use a milder oil like chamomile.
- Add Moisturizing Ingredients: For extra dry skin, consider adding a small amount of coconut oil or almond oil to the recipe.
- DIY Colloidal Silver: If you don’t have access to colloidal silver, you can make your own using silver wire and distilled water.
TLDR: Making your own anti-microbial aftershave ensures you have a hygienic product that can help prevent infections in survival situations. Follow the recipe carefully for best results.