Smelling good is as important as looking good, which makes aftershave a vital part of the shaving process. Making use of an aftershave balm or signature scent can help any man feel relaxed and at their best.
So, how do you use aftershave? How do you apply it and where do you spray it?
Luckily for you, we’ve put together this ultimate guide to aftershave, including why it can burn when you apply it, and what aftershave lotions and balms are...
What is Aftershave?
Aftershave is applied to the skin after shaving – its job is to soothe and nourish the skin post-shave to help reduce irritation and the appearance of razor burn and razor bumps.
The term aftershave is sometimes used to describe scented eau de Cologne and eau de toilettes, aftershave’s primary job is to calm skin irritation; however, aftershave is scented to make the experience of using it pleasant.
What is the difference between aftershave and eau de toilette?
One of the benefits of using aftershave is that it will leave you smelling great for a few hours, but this is not its core purpose – its purpose is to hydrate and nourish the skin. Eau de toilette, on the other hand, is one of the strongest types of scents you can buy and its main purpose is to last throughout the day.
What are aftershave balms and lotions?
Aftershave balms and lotions are moisturisers that aim to hydrate the skin and help to reduce the after effects of shaving such as, dryness and irritation. Simply put, aftershave balms and lotions help speed up the recovery process after shaving.
What’s the Difference Between Aftershave Balm and Aftershave Moisturiser?
While both are milder than their spray alternative, our Aftershave Moisturiser still contains some alcohol, although much less than you’d find in a spray.
Our Aftershave Balm is slightly weaker than our Aftershave Moisturiser, as it’s specially designed for men with rough or sensitive skin and doesn’t contain any alcohol.
For more information about sensitive skin and our recommendations for managing sensitive skin, make sure you check out our Man’s Guide to Sensitive Skin:
How to use Aftershave Balm/Moisturiser
Before applying aftershave, we recommend splashing cold water on your face. This helps soothe any immediate shaving irritation and refreshes your skin ahead of the next step in your routine (check out our blog for more on the importance of washing your face). Once you’ve done this, place about a teaspoon’s worth of Gillette’s Aftershave Moisturiser in your hand and rub them together. Next, apply the balm or moisturiser to your face, starting from your chin and working your way down to your neck.
Why does Aftershave Burn?
Some people are reluctant to use aftershave because they associate it with a painful burning sensation. This is because, in the past, aftershave was primarily a spray that contained a lot of alcohol. While alcohol, at the right volume, is effective at killing off bacteria, too much of it can dry out your skin and create a stinging sensation, especially if you cut yourself while shaving.
How to avoid irritation when shaving your face
Ensuring you check the ingredients and product details of aftershave balms or moisturisers before you buy them is a good way to mitigate the risk of irritation – you should be avoiding products with high levels of alcohol.
Other things you can do to avoid irritation when shaving include:
- Shave with the grain of your facial hair
- Use a light amount of pressure to avoid razor burn
- Avoid touching the area after you’ve shaved
- Apply cold water or a cold flannel to the affected area
Gillette’s aftershave products are some of the best aftershave products for men with sensitive skin, as our moisturiser and balm are milder and don’t contain as much alcohol as some aftershave sprays do. They keep your skin conditioned without dehydrating them or causing you a lot of discomfort.
To ensure your skin remains hydrated, smooth and nourished after you’ve shaved, explore Gillette’s range of skincare care for aftershave balms and lotions.
We have after-shave care for all men and skin types, including our Ultra Sensitive Balm and Ultra Sensitive Moisturisers that feature shea butter and vitamin E, and have been specially designed for men with sensitive skin.
Likewise, the King C. Gillette Moisturiser is formulated with vitamin B complex and its non-greasy consistency ensures you can enjoy healthy-looking skin while relieving the signs of dryness and skin irritation.
For more expert guidance and advice on men’s grooming, including a Man’s Guide to Dry Skin, How to Get Rid of Razor Burn, and Travel Skincare: The Ultimate Guide for Men, explore the Gillette blog.
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