Shave soap ideal EO?

[KiwiMoose]

I think I might be about to start experimenting with shave soap (Roger has agreed to be my tester).
My question is - what scent do I use and in what quantity? I want to use EO as I don't think FO, being chemically derived, is as good for faces.
I want something fresh and clean smelling, but unlikely to irritate sensitive skin. I've heard that orange can be harsh? Not keen on eucalyptus/ tea tree type scents. How about spearmint? Lemongrass? Both together? Rosemary?
Please help with any comments/ experiences you may have.

 

[KiwiMoose]

 

[KristaY]

I was just wondering why I hadn't seen this thread until I looked at the time you posted it. It was almost 2 am for me so I was sawing logs!

The 1st EO blend I used was suggested by an SMF member but I don't remember who (my apologies is you're reading this!) It's equal parts lemon, bergamot and rosemary at 2% total. I used that blend again but added just a hint of bay rum and that was really nice.

I know you aren't fond of eucalyptus but a 50/50 blend of spearmint and eucalyptus is good.

I'm going to make a batch (hopefully tomorrow) of peppermint and spearmint. The friend who requested it for her husband (it's his favorite scent combo to wake up during his morning shave) might like a bit more peppermint and less sweet spearmint so I think I'll try 60/40 blend and see how that goes.

I've also used a few various "manly" type FO's and all my wet shaver tester dudes had no problem with them.

Good luck with your shaving soap endeavors!

 

[DeeAnna]

My favorite scent for shave soap is a blend of Lavender at 64%, Rosemary at 30%, Mint at 6%. All EOs. I use Japanese mint, but peppermint or spearmint would also be nice. It's a fresh, herbaceous blend that is not overly minty. I scent shave soap at 3% based on the weight of fats.

 

[geneaut]

I like Tea Tree oil blends. Usually with a mint.

 

[KiwiMoose]

I've got some cedar wood EO in my shopping cart - wondering if I might blend that with sweet orange or bergamot?

 

[dibbles]

@KiwiMoose I've blended cedar with orange and it is nice. I also like it with lemongrass. I haven't tried it with bergamot, but I think it would probably work well with that too. I find cedar to be on the strong side, so play with ratios.

 

[geneaut]

I've got some cedar wood EO in my shopping cart - wondering if I might blend that with sweet orange or bergamot?

Sounds great to me