Aftershaves are an essential product for men's grooming routine. They help soothe the skin after shaving and add a touch of fragrance, leaving you feeling fresh and revitalized. However, not all aftershaves are created equal, and choosing the right one for your skin type is crucial.
In this guide, we'll explore the world of aftershaves, understand the importance of knowing your skin type, and discover the best options tailored for normal, oily, and sensitive skin.
What’s an Aftershave?
Before delving into the specifics, let's understand what aftershave is and why it's a vital part of the grooming routine to avoid skin irritations like razor burn, ingrown hairs, and razor bumps on freshly shaved skin.
Aftershave is a product applied to the skin after shaving to provide various benefits, such as preventing infection, reducing skin irritation, and moisturizing the skin. Additionally, many aftershaves include a fragrance component, adding a pleasant scent to your post-shave routine.
🧴 Types of Aftershave
Choosing the correct type of aftershave can significantly impact your shaving experience, leaving your skin refreshed, hydrated, and free from irritation. Aftershaves are designed to soothe and protect your skin after the rigors of shaving, and they're available in various forms, each offering unique benefits.
Understanding the differences between invigorating liquid splashes and nourishing balms, cooling gels, and hydrating lotions can help you select the perfect aftershave for your skin type and preferences. Let's break down the differences and give you some product options to start your journey.
1. Aftershave Splash (Liquid Aftershave)
Aftershave splashes are traditional, alcohol-based formulations that provide a refreshing and antiseptic effect. They're ideal for normal to oily skin types but may be too harsh for sensitive skin.
Example Product:
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Barrister and Mann Cheshire Aftershave Splash: This splash offers a classic scent reminiscent of Earl Grey tea, combining notes of bergamot, clary sage, lavender, and patchouli.
2. Aftershave Balm
Balms are thicker, often alcohol-free, and focus on moisturizing and soothing the skin. They're suitable for all skin types and particularly beneficial for dry or sensitive skin.
Example Products:
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Barrister and Mann Cheshire Aftershave Balm: A matching balm to the Cheshire splash, providing hydration with the same classic scent.
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Barrister and Mann Unscented Aftershave Balm: This balm is ideal for those sensitive to fragrances; it soothes and moisturizes without any added scent.
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Fine Accoutrements 'Platinum' After Shave Balm: Combines premium scents with a soothing, fast-absorbing, and alcohol-free formula.
3. Aftershave Gel
Gels are lightweight and provide a cooling sensation, making them ideal for oily skin types. They often contain astringent ingredients like witch hazel and tea tree oil.
Example Product:
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Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Aftershave Gel: This alcohol-free gel soothes the skin while offering a rich sandalwood fragrance.
4. Aftershave Lotion
Lotions strike a balance between liquid and balm aftershaves, typically containing moisturizing ingredients suitable for various skin types.
Example Products:
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Floid 'The Genuine Italian' Aftershave Lotion: A classic Italian aftershave known for its refreshing and invigorating properties.
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LEA Classic After Shave Lotion: Offers a soothing post-shave experience with notes of sandalwood and menthol. (Barrister and Mann Cool Aftershave Balm - Grown Man Shave)
Each type of aftershave offers distinct benefits, and the best choice depends on your skin type and personal preferences. Explore Grown Man Shave's full range of aftershave products to find the perfect fit for your grooming routine.
Skin: Your Largest Organ
Choosing the right kind of aftershave depends on your skin type, personal preferences, and the specific benefits you are looking for. Whether you prefer the classic feel of a splash, the balm's richness, the gel's cooling effect, or the versatility of a lotion, there's a perfect aftershave type for everyone.
Knowing Your Skin Type
Before selecting an aftershave, it's essential to identify your skin type. Your skin type significantly affects how it reacts to different products. Generally, the four main skin types are normal, oily, dry, and sensitive.
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Normal Skin: Balanced, neither overly dry nor oily.
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Oily Skin: Prone to excess oil production, resulting in a shiny complexion.
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Dry Skin: Your skin sucks up moisture and needs refreshing with lotions.
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Sensitive Skin: Easily irritated and prone to reactions from certain ingredients.
Understanding your skin type will help you choose an aftershave that addresses your needs, ensuring a comfortable and practical post-shave experience.
In addition to considering your skin type, it's beneficial to consider your personal fragrance preferences. Aftershaves come in various scents—from woody and spicy aromas to fresh, citrusy, and unscented options. Selecting a fragrance you enjoy can boost your mood and confidence throughout the day, making your shaving ritual even more rewarding.
Furthermore, pairing your aftershave with other grooming products, such as shaving soaps, creams, or pre-shave oils, can significantly enhance your overall shaving experience. Products designed to complement each other will offer improved skin protection, hydration, and a smoother shave, ultimately contributing to healthier-looking skin. Always look for complementary items within your grooming routine to ensure maximum effectiveness and comfort.
Best Aftershave for Men with Normal Skin
Normal skin benefits from a balanced aftershave that provides hydration and a refreshing feel. Aftershave lotions strike this balance well, offering moisturizing properties without being too heavy or overly astringent. They are versatile and generally suitable for standard skin types without causing excessive dryness or oiliness.
We love the complete Barrister & Mann range here at GMS. However, we recommend the aftershave splash, which comes in various scents, for men with normal skin. For men with sensitive skin, the B&M balm is the way to go, more on the balm below.
If your skin is dry, the D.R. Harris Arlington Aftershave Milk Dispenser, infused with a refreshing blend of citrus and fern, is a meticulously crafted and lightly scented formula that not only delights the senses but also boasts natural antiseptic properties to calm and prevent razor bumps. It revitalizes and rejuvenates your skin, making it an excellent choice for normal skin.
Best Aftershave for Men with Oily Skin
Aftershave gels are ideal for oily skin types. They are lightweight and often contain astringent ingredients like witch hazel, which helps control excess oil production. The cooling sensation provided by gels can also be soothing for irritated skin, making them a good choice for individuals with oily and acne-prone skin.
The Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Aftershave Gel is designed for oily skin. Its non-greasy formula helps control shine and provides a refreshing feel. Infused with the classic scent of sandalwood, it adds a touch of sophistication to your post-shave routine.
Best Aftershave for Men with Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin requires extra care, and shaving balms are an excellent choice for aftershave. They are typically alcohol-free and focus on moisturizing and soothing the skin. Balms often contain ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, chamomile, and other natural oils known for their calming properties. A shaving balm helps reduce irritation and minimizes the risk of adverse reactions on sensitive skin.
The Barrister and Mann Seville Aftershave Balm is the best choice for sensitive skin. This alcohol-free shaving balm combines moisturizing elements with calming ingredients. Its gentle and hydrating formula ensures a soothing post-shave experience without irritating your skin.
Best Aftershave for Men with Dry Skin
When it comes to choosing the best aftershave for men with dry skin, it’s all about hydration and soothing ingredients. Dry skin can feel tight and irritated after shaving, so it’s essential to use an aftershave that not only calms razor burn but also deeply moisturizes without alcohol or harsh chemicals. Look for formulas enriched with natural oils, aloe vera, and antioxidants to replenish and protect the skin barrier.
For men with dry or sensitive skin, a great high-end pick from D.R. Harris is the D.R. Harris Arlington Aftershave Milk. Unlike traditional alcohol-based splashes, this "milk" is an alcohol-free balm designed to soothe and moisturize the skin after shaving. It has a light, non-greasy texture and features the signature Arlington scent—a refined blend of citrus and fern that’s clean, masculine, and timeless.
It's important to note that individual preferences and specific product formulations can also play a role. Always check the ingredient list, and consider doing a patch test to ensure the aftershave suits your skin. Additionally, choosing fragrance-free or hypoallergenic options can benefit those with sensitive skin.
Aftershave Balm by Barrester & Mann
How to Use an Aftershave
Using aftershave correctly is crucial to reap its full benefits. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply aftershave:
- Shave: After completing your shaving routine, rinse your face with cold water to remove any remaining shaving cream or lather.
- Pat Dry: Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can irritate.
- Apply Aftershave: Pour a small amount of aftershave into your hands and rub them together to distribute the product. Apply the aftershave to your face, focusing on areas more prone to irritation.
- Avoid Over-application: With aftershave, a little goes a long way. Applying too much can lead to a sticky or greasy feeling, so use a small amount and add more if needed.
- Allow Absorption: Give the aftershave a moment to absorb into your skin before adding additional products.
- Follow with Moisturizer (Optional): You may follow up with a moisturizer depending on your skin type and needs. If your aftershave already has moisturizing properties, this step may be unnecessary. We also like the Hemp Balm from Naked Armor as a last step for wet shavers with dry and sensitive skin.
Dermatologists advise choosing wet shaving to minimize recurring skin irritation. Traditional wet shaving creates a protective lather barrier between your skin and the razor blade, allowing for a smoother, closer shave. This technique reduces the potential for irritation by minimizing friction and providing a more comfortable experience than dry shaving.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the best aftershave for your skin type is essential for a comfortable and practical post-shave experience. Products are tailored to meet your needs, whether you have normal, oily, or sensitive skin. Here is a quick image to help you remember the aftershave process.
Remember to identify your skin type, choose an aftershave with appropriate ingredients, and follow the proper application steps for the best results. Investing in quality aftershave can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your skin, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable shaving routine.
Article updated 5/2025
