A Guide to Men's Aftershave

In the world of men’s grooming, aftershave holds a uniquely special place. It’s the finishing touch, the final flourish that leaves you feeling fresh, with a touch of finesse. But with so many options available, from splashes to balms, choosing the right aftershave is quintessential.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about aftershave: from its essential purpose to how to find the best product for your skin type or your specific needs. This aftershave guide will ensure you leave no stone unturned in your quest for the perfect aftershave for you.

So What is Aftershave?

At its core, aftershave is a product applied to the face after shaving to prevent irritation—it can soothe the skin, and leave a refreshing fragrance. Consider your needs after shaving. Are there cuts you want to disinfect and/or stop; or irritation you'd like to soothe? Does the skin feel too dry? All this and more can be a thing of the past with the right aftershave in your grooming arsenal.

Aftershave comes in various forms – splashes, balms, lotions, and gels – each designed to cater to different skin types and preferences. But before diving into the specifics, it’s important to understand the difference between aftershave and other fragrance products.

While cologne and eau de toilette are primarily designed to add a scent to your grooming routine, aftershave’s main purpose is skin care. However, many aftershaves also contain fragrance, offering you the best of both worlds: a soothing post-shave treatment and a subtle, refreshing scent.

Looking for more ideas? Head to our blog post of all the best men’s aftershaves and colognes.

So What Are The Benefits?

Here are some of the key benefits of using aftershave:

• Soothing and Healing: Shaving can leave the skin sensitive and prone to irritation—many aftershaves often contain ingredients like witch hazel or aloe vera that calm the skin and promote healing.
• Antiseptic Properties: Alcohol-based aftershaves are known for their antiseptic qualities. They help clean out minor cuts and prevent infections. However, these types can be drying, which brings us to the next point…
• Hydration: Many aftershaves, particularly balms and lotions, are formulated with moisturising ingredients to keep your skin hydrated. This is especially important if you have dry or sensitive skin.
• A Confidence Boost: Let’s not forget the fragrance factor. A well-chosen aftershave scent can leave you smelling—and feeling—confident and polished throughout the day.

If you want a broader understanding of fragrance and how it impacts your daily routine, check out our Perfume and Fragrance Guide.

So What Types of Aftershave are There?

Choosing the right aftershave can depend on a variety of factors, but understanding the different types is a great place to start. Here’s a quick overview of the most popular types of aftershave and when to use them:

• Aftershave Splash: This traditional option is a classic. Typically formulated with a high alcohol percentage, it provides a strong antiseptic effect—which is great for sanitising the skin after shaving. Alcohol-based splashes can, however, be harsh on sensitive or dry skin, as they can strip away natural oils.
• Balms and Lotions: These aftershaves are more typically alcohol-free, making them gentler on the skin. They often contain ingredients like shea butter or aloe vera, providing deep hydration and soothing irritated skin. Balms are ideal for those with dry or sensitive skin—opt for a cream if you’re looking for even more hydration.
• Gels: A lightweight alternative, aftershave gels are cooling and refreshing. They absorb quickly and are great for oily skin types or for those looking for a light touch of hydration, without any of the heaviness of a balm.

What Aftershave Is Best For Who?

Not all aftershaves are created equal: here’s a quick breakdown to help you find your match.

• Sensitive Skin: If you experience irritation, redness, or razor bumps after shaving, opt for alcohol-free balms or lotions. Look for products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or vitamin E…and try to avoid alcohol-based splashes.
• Oily Skin: Oily skin can benefit from lightweight gels or alcohol-based aftershaves, which help reduce excess shine. Avoid occlusive creams or balms, which could clog pores and contribute to breakouts.
• Dry Skin: For dry skin, moisturising aftershaves such as balms or lotions are ideal. These types often contain nourishing ingredients like shea butter or glycerin to lock in hydration and prevent flakiness.

How to Properly Apply Aftershave

By now, you’re well on the way to selecting the right aftershave for your skin type, so it’s time to make sure you’re applying it correctly. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide.

• Cleanse Your Face: After shaving, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and cool water to close pores and remove any excess shaving cream or product.
• Pat Dry, Don’t Rub: Use a clean towel to gently pat your skin dry. Avoid rubbing, this can irritate freshly shaved skin.
• Apply a Small Amount: Pour a small amount of aftershave into your palm (about the size of a coin). Rub your hands together to evenly distribute the product.
• Again—Pat, Don’t Rub: Gently pat the aftershave onto your face and neck. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as this can cause irritation, especially with alcohol-based products.
• Let It Absorb: Allow the aftershave to fully absorb into your skin before applying any other products.

Common Aftershave Mistakes to Avoid

Even some of the most seasoned shavers can fall into some common pitfalls when using aftershave. No worries- that’s why we’ve also compiled a quick list of a few common mistakes to avoid in addition to this aftershave guide:

• Over-application: Less is more when it comes to aftershave. Overloading your skin with product can clog pores and irritate the skin.
• Using the Wrong Product: Just because a product smells great doesn’t mean it’s right for your skin. Be mindful of your skin type and choose aftershaves that address and complement your skin’s needs.
• Skipping Aftershave: It’s tempting to skip this step, but aftershave helps protect your skin and keeps it looking its best.