Body & Soul: Bay Rum Aftershave

By Janice Cox
Published on January 12, 2011
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CUTS AND NICKS: Grab a clean cotton cloth or tissue and apply direct pressure to stop the bleeding. Avoid that area the next time you shave. You may also apply a bit of vitamin E oil to the spot to help it heal.

There are several versions of this old-fashioned skin tonic, but this recipe uses witch hazel in place of stronger alcohols and fresh bay leaves, allspice and orange zest. Cinnamon smells great and its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe skin after cleansing or shaving.

• 1?2 cup witch hazel
• 2 tablespoons dark rum
• 2 fresh or dried bay leaves  
• 1?4 teaspoon allspice
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Zest from 1 small orange

1. Mix all ingredients. Pour into a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid. Place the jar in a dark, cool place for 2 weeks.

2. At the end of 2 weeks, strain off the liquid and pour into a clean container. Discard any zest and other remaining solids. To use: Splash on the face after cleansing or shaving.


Janice Cox is the author of Natural Beauty at Home (Henry Holt and Company , 2002). She and her daughter, Lauren Cox, co-authored a book, EcoBeauty (Ten Speed Press , 2009). Find them at www.herbcompanion.com/shopping.

Click here for the main article, Body & Soul: Make Men’s Grooming Products.

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