For many, aftershave is a shaving routine's final, refreshing step. Not only does it help soothe the skin, but it also reduces irritation, leaves a pleasant fragrance, and can even hydrate. The right aftershave — whether lotion, balm, or liquid — enhances your grooming routine, making you look and feel your best. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of aftershave, how to use each one, and even answer common questions, like Can you use cologne as an aftershave? By the end, you’ll have all the tips and tricks to choose the perfect aftershave for your needs and make the most of it in your daily routine.
What Does Aftershave Do and Why Use It?
Aftershave serves as more than just a quick splash of fragrance; it’s a crucial skincare step that calms and cleanses freshly shaved skin. Here’s a closer look at what aftershave does and why it’s an essential part of your grooming routine:
- Soothes Skin: Shaving can cause irritation, redness, and minor cuts, especially on sensitive skin. Aftershave often contains soothing ingredients, like aloe vera, chamomile, or tea tree oil, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients reduce redness and calm skin after shaving, preventing the tight, itchy feeling that can follow a close shave.
- Hydrates and Refreshes: Some aftershaves, particularly balms and creams, are designed to provide moisture to prevent dryness. The hydration helps maintain skin elasticity, making your skin look healthier and reducing the chance of flaking. Aftershave balms or lotions with glycerin or hyaluronic acid are excellent for hydrating, as they create a barrier that locks in moisture.
- Protects Against Bacteria: Shaving opens pores and can leave tiny cuts, making skin vulnerable to bacteria. Aftershaves with antiseptic properties, especially those containing alcohol or natural alternatives like witch hazel, can reduce the risk of infections. Even if your skin feels sensitive to alcohol, opting for aftershaves with mild, non-drying antiseptics helps maintain skin health.
- Adds a Fragrance Layer: Many aftershaves come with a light fragrance, adding a refreshing scent to your grooming routine. This fragrance is often subtle and won’t overwhelm, making it a great option if you prefer a hint of scent without using cologne. For best results, choose an aftershave fragrance that complements your preferred cologne.
Always apply aftershave right after shaving for the best soothing and protective benefits. Look for an aftershave with ingredients that match your skin type: for dry skin, pick a balm or moisturizing lotion; for oily skin, go for a lighter lotion or splash.
How to Use Aftershave: Lotion, Balm, or Liquid?
Each aftershave type has distinct properties suited for different skin types and needs. Understanding the differences between lotion, balm, and liquid aftershave can help you choose the best option for your skin and make the most of this grooming step.
Lotion
Aftershave lotion is often alcohol-based, providing a refreshing, cooling sensation. It’s particularly effective for oily or acne-prone skin because it dries quickly and leaves a matte finish. Alcohol in lotion is an antiseptic, helping prevent breakouts by eliminating bacteria. However, people with sensitive or dry skin might find alcohol-based lotions too drying, so it’s essential to choose one with added moisturizing ingredients or a lower alcohol content.
How to Use Aftershave Lotion:
- After shaving, rinse your face with cool water. This step closes the pores and preps your skin to absorb the lotion.
- Pat your face dry with a clean towel, avoiding rubbing, which can irritate the skin.
- Pour a small amount of lotion into your palms: Use about a dime-sized amount to avoid applying too much.
- Gently pat the lotion on your face, focusing on the areas you’ve shaved. Avoid the eye area, as the alcohol content might sting.
- Let the lotion absorb for a few seconds before layering with a cologne, if desired.
Balm
Aftershave balm is thicker and creamier than lotion, making it ideal for dry or sensitive skin. Unlike lotion, balms are generally alcohol-free and less likely to sting. Balms hydrate and form a protective barrier on the skin, making them an excellent choice in colder or drier climates. For added moisture, look for shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera balms.
How to Use After Shave Balm:
- Dry your face thoroughly after shaving: Balms are better absorbed on dehydrated skin.
- Squeeze a dime-sized amount onto your fingertips and rub it between your hands to warm it up.
- Gently massage the balm onto your face, focusing on the areas you shaved. The warmth from your hands helps the balm absorb evenly.
- Let it absorb fully before moving on to additional skincare or applying cologne.
Liquid
Aftershave liquid, often called a splash, is a classic choice. It’s a lighter, water-based option that quickly refreshes the skin. Suitable for normal or combination skin, liquid aftershave provides an immediate cooling effect that can help tighten pores. Choose a liquid with added botanicals like lavender or eucalyptus if you want a subtle, natural scent.
How to Use After Shave Liquid:
- Splash your face with cold water after shaving to close the pores.
- Pour a few drops of liquid into your hands and rub them together.
- Gently press the liquid onto your face, concentrating on shaved areas. A quick patting motion works best to avoid irritating the skin.
- Let it air dry for a refreshing effect and natural finish.
The Interchangeability of Cologne and Aftershave: A Closer Look
Many fragrance enthusiasts wonder whether cologne can double as an aftershave or if the reverse is possible. Understanding the distinct purposes of these products is critical to answering this question.
Using Cologne as Aftershave
At first glance, cologne might appear to be a suitable substitute for aftershave, but it’s important to note that cologne isn’t formulated with post-shave skin in mind. Typically, colognes have a higher alcohol content and lack the soothing, hydrating properties essential for calming freshly shaved skin. Applying cologne directly after shaving can lead to discomfort, including stinging sensations, redness, and even dryness. If you find yourself in a tight spot without aftershave, a more practical approach would be to blend a few drops of cologne with an unscented moisturizer to alleviate irritation.
Can Aftershave Be Used as Cologne?
Interestingly, some aftershaves possess a fragrance potent enough to function as a light cologne. If you prefer a more understated scent, aftershave can be a great alternative, though it generally will have a different longevity than traditional cologne. For those opting to use aftershave in this way, consider reapplying throughout the day to keep the scent fresh. Select an aftershave with a fragrance profile that complements or harmonizes with your primary cologne to maximize the effect.
Layering for Lasting Fragrance
For a more enduring scent experience, try applying aftershave first, allowing it to dry completely before layering your cologne on pulse points. This technique can enhance the overall fragrance while maintaining the soothing benefits of your aftershave.
How to Apply Aftershave Without Spray
Applying aftershave without a spray bottle is easy and requires no special tools. Here’s a quick guide on how to get the most even application:
- Clean Hands and Pat Skin Dry: To avoid introducing bacteria, clean your hands and gently pat your skin dry after shaving.
- Pour a Small Amount into Your Palm: To avoid overapplication, pour a dime-sized amount of aftershave into your palm. This amount is enough to cover your face without wasting product.
- Rub and Apply: Mix your hands to spread the product evenly, then gently press it into your face. Use a light patting motion, as rubbing too harshly can irritate the skin.
- Let It Absorb: Give the aftershave a few seconds to absorb fully before applying any other product.
Focus on pulse points like the neck and wrists for an even application, which will help the scent last longer.
Choosing Aftershave for the Bikini Area
Given the sensitivity of the bikini area, choosing the right aftershave is essential to avoid irritation, redness, and ingrown hairs. Aftershave in this area doesn’t just add a refreshing touch; it actively soothes the skin, helping to prevent redness and those frustrating red bumps. Another benefit of a carefully selected aftershave is its role in reducing ingrown hairs, as it keeps the skin hydrated and gently exfoliated, promoting smoother hair regrowth.
Alcohol-based aftershaves are best avoided for sensitive areas like the bikini line, as they can cause stinging and irritation. Instead, a fragrance-free balm or lotion with soothing ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera can provide comfort and calmness without irritation. Chamomile, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and aloe vera, with its cooling effect, are both excellent choices for delicate skin.
When applying aftershave in this area, using a cotton pad is helpful. This allows for a more controlled, gentle application, ensuring the right amount of product is used without over-applying. Avoid rubbing the skin vigorously, as this can cause further irritation; pat gently. Also, avoid fragranced products, which can trigger allergic reactions or discomfort. By applying aftershave sparingly and choosing the correct formulation, you’ll be able to maintain smooth, comfortable skin in even the most sensitive areas.