The best Aftershave balm is what you need when it comes to dealing with ingrown hairs, razor cuts, and burns. Find out how to find a premium aftershave and what constitutes a really great one that suits your Skin type through this article.

What Is an Aftershave Balm

An aftershave balm is a product you need to apply to your skin right after shaving to serve a wide range of purposes – among which are offering relief against irritation, protecting your skin from the elements and moisturizing your skin. It is created in a way that it offers a thick and sufficient coating of moisture, which is a huge help in soothing and protecting freshly shaven skin.

This is beneficial considering how important it is to make sure to moisturize your face every day to keep it in good condition. One thing that makes this product beneficial is that it is devoid of alcohol and only contains a minimal amount of fragrance. With that, you do not have to worry about it stinging once you put it on.

Your skin will benefit from the use of skin care products before and after shaving – and such benefits are also achievable when you use the aftershave balm. With that, it helps to introduce it into your daily routines to obtain a smooth and healthy complexion.

Benefits of Using an Aftershave Balm

An aftershave balm should play a major role in your shaving routine. Note that razor for sensitive skin gives a cleaner cut, but you can’t expect it to provide you such great results without ending the shaving routine with an aftershave balm.

Helps Prevent Ingrown Hair

The use of cartridge razor prevents nicks and cuts, but you can further boost its ability to prevent such issues and a lot more through an aftershave balm. In case you are one of those who experience some of the most uncomfortable and annoying issues related to shaving your face, like razor burns and ingrown hairs, then using this item is the best solution. It is mainly because of the product’s antiseptic properties that can efficiently clean your skin.

Tightens Your Skin

Your skin will benefit from the use of skincare products – one of which is the aftershave balm. It is mainly because of the ability of this product to tighten your skin. It has ingredients, like witch hazel, that help the balm work as a safe and reliable astringent. Aside from tightening your skin, this also helps in closing open pores and cuts.

Smells Nice

Most aftershave balms also have a nice smell. With that, you can expect it to work in making you smell good right after you applied it or put it on.

Make sure, though, that you also use shaving soap for more accuracy and a high-quality and safe razor to prevent some common issues related to shaving. By combining the use of such products with the aftershave balm, you can surely eliminate possible skin problems.

How Does an Aftershave Balm Work

The aftershave balm often works by soothing irritated skin caused by shaving. It contains ingredients designed to moisturize and revitalize your skin, allowing your face and neck to breathe once you are done shaving. Furthermore, it also often contains Vitamin C, which is a good thing as it helps make your skin look shiny and healthy.

The good thing about all the ingredients is that these tend to compliment the skin of users naturally. The products often use natural oils, such as argan and jojoba oil, that are not only organic but are also minimally abrasive to one’s skin.

An effective aftershave balm also works through its astringent properties that help in restricting blood vessels found in the skin’s surface. With such ability, you can resolve issues, like nicks, cuts, and ingrown hairs caused by shaving. The natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties also help them perform their intended function even for those with sensitive skin and acne.

Types of Aftershaves

Aftershaves actually come in different forms/types. In this section, let’s get to know more about the different types of aftershaves, so you will know if the balm is indeed the most suitable choice for you.

Splash

The splash variation of the aftershave refers to an antiseptic with the main goal of tightening your skin. It is a great choice if you are one of those who often get nicks and cuts after shaving. It is because of the ability of its ingredients and properties to avoid infection from the cuts.

You can also expect the aftershave splash to be effective for those with oily skin types who can withstand the slight dryness that might be caused by it, especially if the one you use contains alcohol. However, if your skin is already dry, then stay away from splashes based on alcohol. Go for those containing witch hazel to prevent drying out your skin more.

Lotion

You can also go for the lotion variation of the aftershave. In most cases, the aftershave lotion comes with a stronger scent compared to the others. Aside from being strong, the scent is also long-lasting, which makes it a great alternative to cologne. One great thing about the aftershave lotion is that it has skin toning properties. It helps in tightening your pores right after you shave. It is also compatible with those who have oily skin.

Gel

Aftershave gel is also a great choice. While the gel usually functions similarly to the aftershave lotion, you can still expect the former to differ in the sense that it works in making your skin cool down. It also lessens the risk of burns after shaving. Another advantage is that the gel is quickly absorbed by the skin, which is also one of the reasons why the best shaving gel is recommended to many people.

The fact that your skin can quickly and easily absorb it makes it ideal in places with humid climates, especially if you know that you will sweat out right after shaving. However, one problem with the gel is that it is not that moisturizing due to its quick-absorbing nature.

Balm

Probably one of the best and most popular choices for aftershave is the balm. It often comes in the form of a hydrating lotion that features a mild smell or scent. The scent tends to fade within a few minutes of putting the balm on your face. However, you can also find unscented products if you prefer.

While there are aftershave balms that contain alcohol, these products are still alcohol-free most of the time. This makes it effective in lessening the negative effects of burns caused by the use of razor after you shave. Note that applying it might cause a bit of a stinging sensation. However, it is a good choice if you want to tighten your pores.

The lubricating properties also make it perfect for those who have dry skin. It is heavier and thicker when compared to other aftershaves. It is not ideal for those who are prone to acne, though.

Most Common Ingredients to Look for in Aftershave Balms

When shopping, it helps to understand and get to know more about its components. With that in mind, here are the ingredients that you should find if you want to use high-quality and safe item:

Witch Hazel

One common ingredient in various beauty and skincare products is witch hazel. This is good for the skin because it has natural astringent properties that are beneficial for your pores. Being a part of an aftershave balm allows it to work effectively in constricting or tightening your pores without causing dryness.

Witch hazel is also rich in anti-inflammatory properties that work in soothing irritated skin. Because it can treat inflammation, you can also find this ingredient is used in products designed to treat rashes and bug bites. One more thing that witch hazel can do is cleaning your skin. It is due to its ability to flush out bacteria, such as acne-causing ones.

Eucalyptus

Another ingredient that should be present is eucalyptus. It is a useful ingredient because it contains antibacterial properties. The toxicity of this ingredient can also help in neutralizing any possible bacterial infection. An aftershave containing eucalyptus is also great for those who usually experience infections and spots due to shaving.

Menthol

It would also be great if your chosen product has menthol, which is capable of giving a cooling sensation to your skin. It provides such a sensation because it blocks the calcium current found in your nerve endings that play a major role in sensing temperature. It can relieve any discomfort, especially if you are prone to dealing with burns after you shave.

Sandalwood

Your aftershave balm can also greatly benefit you if it has sandalwood as part of its ingredients. The oil of sandalwood works in healing scar tissues, making it effective when it comes to dealing with eczema and spots and blemishes on the skin.

It also works in treating cuts and nicks brought on by shaving. Furthermore, it can hydrate the skin, plus it is anti-inflammatory. This can help fix your injured or damaged skin cells.

Glycerin

Another great ingredient is glycerin. One advantage of glycerin is that it contains plenty of moisturizing properties. It moisturizes the skin, making it perfect for those whose skin type is mainly dry.

Bay Oil

One reason why the inclusion of bay oil in the ingredients list is beneficial for users is that it has incredible antibiotic and antiseptic properties. This is extremely helpful in healing and cleaning cuts, thereby preventing possible infections.

Tea Tree Oil

Make sure that the balm also contains tea tree oil. As a natural antiseptic, you can expect this ingredient to work effectively in flushing out your facial skin’s pores. This results in a lower risk of experiencing an infection. It also provides a soothing sensation each time you finished shaving.

Vitamin E

Look for an aftershave balm that contains Vitamin E, too. It is because of the numerous favorable advantages offered by this specific ingredient. This vitamin helps in strengthening your skin and making it as healthy as possible. Vitamin E is also a big help in speeding up the process of healing extremely dry skin.

It is mainly due to the antioxidant properties present in it capable of neutralizing free radicals. Furthermore, it ensures that your skin is free of unwanted foreign matter. It can repair damaged skin cells, especially those that come as results of shaving.

Licorice Extract

Aftershave balms with licorice extract are also good for men who shave regularly. It contains natural glycerin, which is known as a natural moisturizer. With its natural moisturizing capabilities, expect your skin cells to be well-hydrated with the aid of this ingredient. This makes it extremely helpful for those who have dry skin.

Lanolin

Lanolin is also a great ingredient. It is because of its ability to improve the acid mantle of your skin and ensure that it is fully protected from harmful pollutants. With that, having this in your aftershave is important, especially if you are someone who tends to get infected or inflamed quickly.

Chamomile

One favorable advantage of chamomile is that it is capable of offering relief against irritation. It does so by soothing your skin, especially if it gets inflamed. With that, having this in your aftershave balm is surely good for your skin.

Borage Oil

You can never go wrong by picking an item with borage oil in it. It is mainly because this ingredient performs a wide range of functions that can benefit your skin cells – among which are repairing damaged ones, hydrating them, and offering protection. With its protective nature, borage oil is also a big help for those whose skin type is sensitive.

Citronellol

This ingredient is also a great addition to the balm because of its insect-repellent properties. It prevents insects from coming in direct contact with your skin. This is essential, especially if your skin tends to react negatively anytime you get bitten by an insect.

Lemon Peel

Another vital ingredient that you have to consider is the lemon scent. It makes your aftershave have that unique and relaxing scent. It is also acidic in nature, which makes it effective in acting as a protective acid mantel. Furthermore, it works in fighting harmful bacteria that might damage your skin.

Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 refers to an enzyme that naturally occurs within your body. The problem with it is that its amount tends to get lower as you age. With the presence of such coenzyme, you can expect it to work wonders to your skin when it comes to fighting premature aging.

Caffeine

The presence of this ingredient in your aftershave is also beneficial because it naturally contains anti-inflammatory properties. With such properties, it helps restrict tiny capillaries found close to the skin surface. This can result in more toned-looking and tighter skin.

Aloe Vera

Another thing that tends to complete the list of ingredients is aloe vera. It has significant qualities that make it so soothing to the skin. In case of burns after shaving, it helps lessen the effect, including pain. It makes it a great ingredient in the product designed to help in dealing with skin irritation.

Humectants

Then there are what we call as humectants. You can usually find these humectants, like lactic acid and sorbitol, in many aftershaves. What these ingredients do is ensure that the other active ingredients included in the product will only have minimal dehydrating effects.

How to Choose the Best Aftershave Balm

Picking the best product out of the numerous choices you will probably have access to will be less challenging and tricky if you know exactly what to look for. The following are some factors and qualities of this product that you have to analyze carefully to guarantee a wise buy:

Skin Type

One huge consideration is your skin type. Find out which among the following types your skin belongs to and determine what item is suitably for it:

Dry Skin

If your skin falls under the dry type, then you can surely benefit from using the balm variation of an aftershave. This is especially true if you are still a beginner in using the product and if you live in a place with a dry or cold climate.

Oily Skin

While the aftershave balm works for those with oily skin, take note that you can enjoy more favorable and comfortable results if you go for the gel, lotion, and splash variations.

Sensitive Skin

In case you are one of those who have sensitive skin, then you can always go for an product without any paraben. It should not also contain alcohol, as this might cause your skin to get burned.

Normal/Combination Skin

For those with normal or combination skin, going for the aftershave splash might be the best thing for them.

Ingredients

When hunting for a good and reliable aftershave balm, checking out and analyzing its list of ingredients should be on top of your priorities. Determine the components of the product. It should contain all the ingredients needed to ensure that it can deliver its promised function. As much as possible, pick one with witch hazel because this ingredient carries plenty of rewarding benefits for the skin.

Fragrance

Another thing you have to assess is the fragrance or scent. In that case, you may want to consider two important factors as far as the fragrance is concerned:

Duration

This refers to the length of time it takes for the fragrance or scent to stay on your skin. This duration depends on a few factors and variables, including your skin type and body chemistry. Oil is one ingredient in the scent and it might cause it to be dissipated faster if you apply it to dry skin. If you have oily skin, though, then expect the scent to last longer even with the oil around.

Another thing that might affect the length of time the fragrance will last is alcohol. It is because it tends to evaporate faster than other ingredients. With that in mind, expect an alcohol-based aftershave with only little fragrance content to have a scent that tends to dissipate faster than usual.

Types of Fragrance

It is also advisable to determine the types of scents used in creating the aftershave. In that case, your choices include citrus, floral, woody, and oriental scents. Another thing to remember is that the scent’s quality is often multi-layered. Expect it to reach your sense of smell through three stages, namely the top, middle, and the base.

Superior Performance

You should also check the overall performance of the product. To check how superior the product is in terms of performance, you can check customer reviews. Research about the specific products that earned positive reviews from users. You may also want to check online forums to get an idea about which aftershave balm gives them the best results.

Availability

Another important factor is the availability of the product. Make sure that the aftershave balm you are eyeing to buy is easily accessible and readily available. That way, you will never run out of it.

Price

You should also make your choice based on how much the aftershave balm costs. However, this does not mean selecting the cheapest product. It is still advisable to find out which one has superior quality while still being offered at a low price.

How to Apply an Aftershave Balm

The correct application plays a major role in ensuring that you will get your desired results from it. Use pre-shave oil as much as possible. Note that a pre-shave oil will hydrate your skin much better, so using it before applying the aftershave balm can help maximize the product’s results. The use of straight razor is easy and straightforward, too, so it is more advisable to use it for shaving.

Step 1 – Pat your face using cold water

You need to do this step right after shaving. Doing this can help in closing your pores. After that, use a clean towel to dry your face gently.

Step 2 – Use the aftershave

Put a bit of your chosen aftershave balm in your palm. Rub it using both your hands gently. Your goal is to spread it evenly.

Step 3 – Massage it to your shaved face

Massage the balm gently on your face using a circular and upward motion. This motion is recommended as this guarantees the quick absorption of the product on your facial skin.

Step 4 – Let your skin absorb the aftershave for a few minutes

You will know that it is already absorbed by your skin once you no longer see it. You may want to put on another coating of the aftershave in case you feel like you still need to cover more parts of your face.

Aftershave Balm vs Splash

Two of the most popular types of aftershave today are the balm and the splash. When deciding which one to choose between the two, it is advisable to learn their individual advantages and downsides. The aftershave balm should be applied to moist face, instead of a wet one.

The balm has an oily composition and a vicious nature, which is the main reason why the excessive use of it might cause your skin to appear greasy. Using it, excessively might also lead to it being unable to work quickly. This is the primary reason why you should apply just the right amount of it.

If possible, apply only a bit of aftershave balm. A pea-sized amount placed on your palm is highly recommended. Make sure to apply it gently and let it work evenly on the specific parts of your skin that you have already shaved.

One great thing about this item is that it is soothing and calming. It also does not contain alcohol in most cases. It mainly focuses on bringing back your skin’s moisture and the acid mantle. Moreover, it dries quickly and does not seem to leave a gloss or sheen on your face.

Aftershave splash, on the other hand, is best to apply on dry face. After shaving, pat your face dry instead of rubbing it. It is because rubbing your face using a possible irritant, such as a towel, might only irritate or worsen the effects of shaving on your face.

The aftershave splash is also often liquid-based. It has a runny consistency when you compare it to balms. It also often has alcohol levels that some may consider as too high when it comes to maintaining the good health of their skin. Fortunately, you can also find aftershave splashes with no alcohol or low alcohol content.

Does More Spending Mean More Quality

When it comes to aftershave balms, spending more does not necessarily mean you will be getting one that delivers better performance. It is because there are budget-friendly products with components and ingredients that truly work wonders in lessening the negative effects of shaving. Be resourceful during the selection period to ensure that you can get one with your desired quality and performance without having to spend a lot.

Do’s and Don’ts With Aftershave Balms

Do’s

Use Warm Water

This should serve as one of the steps in preparing your facial skin for the process of shaving. One reason why you have to use warm water is that it helps in opening your pores naturally. It also helps in loosening up facial hair, promoting ease in managing it. This prevents you from experiencing more negative effects from shaving that your aftershave balm can handle.

Use Cold Water After Shaving

While it is advisable for you to use warm water before you shave, it is highly recommended to go for cold water once you are done with shaving. This helps in closing pores and prevent minor bleeding in the case of nicks.

It is also highly recommended to put some cold water on both hands then gently pat your face before you put on your chosen aftershave balm. Dry it off using a clean towel.

Allow the Aftershave Balm to Emulsify

This means putting a bit of the balm on your hands then rub it together. Note that the level of consistency of the balm can help you figure out the specific amount you have to put in your hand. Wait for a few seconds until you notice some tingling sensation on your fingers.

When that happens, do not worry because it’s actually a good sign. Your goal here is to mix all minerals, healing properties, and vitamins within the balm, so you should try rubbing it gently. Apply the balm on your face only after noticing that it is already well-emulsified.

Don’ts

Rub Your Skin

Rubbing your face, especially with a towel, right after shaving is not recommended as it might only damage or irritate your skin. The same is true when you are applying the aftershave balm. Instead of rubbing the balm harshly, use gentle and circular motions when applying it to your freshly shaven face. This is a huge help in promoting better absorption.

Use a Cheap Razor

You can expect much better results from the item if you also use high-quality yet budget-friendly razors for shaving in the first place. Avoid going for the cheapest one with questionable quality.

Shavettes are easier to maintain, so you can choose them but make sure that their quality is also top-notch. With that, you have an assurance that your skin will not suffer from any harsh consequences that your aftershave balm might have a hard time handling.

Aside from the do’s and don’ts mentioned, it is advisable to include another moisturizer into your usual routine. This is especially true if you are dealing with a certain skin condition. If your skin is dry, for instance, then you can greatly benefit from putting on a moisturizer before sleeping.

However, if your skin is oily, then look for an aftershave that has sufficient amounts of toning properties. It is also advisable to put on a facial scrub several times weekly.

Quick Tips When Choosing an Aftershave Balm

• Check product labels – Make it a habit to check the product labels of the aftershave balm you are planning to buy carefully. As much as possible, go for one containing all-natural ingredients. Avoid those with synthetic fragrances and dyes as much as possible, as these might trigger allergic reactions and skin irritations.
• Find products with Shea butter and natural oils – These are extremely helpful ingredients since Shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties. Natural oils like almond, grape-seed, coconut, avocado, jojoba, and olive oil are also great ingredients because of their moisturizing and healing properties.
• Test the aftershave – Before buying, make it a point to test the product. You can do that on your face or any part of your skin. This will give you an idea of how your skin will feel or react to it. Your goal during the test is to determine if the aftershave easily penetrates your skin. It should be easy to absorb and should not leave oily residues.

FAQ About Aftershave Balms

How do I stop shaving rash?

Rashes are the most common issues linked to shaving. Fortunately, there is a way to prevent a shaving rash as much as possible. One of the things that you can do is to exfoliate your skin regularly. This is important in getting rid of dead skin cells.

Another tip is to put on a lubricant, like a shaving cream or soap, before shaving. Do not tightly pull your skin when shaving, too. Furthermore, make it a point to shave using short and light strokes and based on the hair growth’s direction.

Can I use aftershave balm as a moisturizer?

Yes. An aftershave balm is even considered by many as an effective moisturizer. It is because it is usually formulated with soothing and moisturizing ingredients, like the tea tree oil and Aloe Vera. These ingredients can help soften and tone your skin. The best thing is that it is lighter compared to many moisturizers, so you have a guarantee that it will not leave any grease on your skin.

Is an aftershave balm really necessary?

While you can’t say that the aftershave balm is necessary in all cases, it is still safe to say that it is helpful and beneficial for a lot of men, especially those who have sensitive skin and acne-prone skin. It also offers great benefits to those who frequently deal with skin irritation, especially after shaving. It is mainly because of the astringent properties that help in killing bacteria and other possible irritants.

Conclusion

Finding the most suitable aftershave balm for your skin is crucial in preventing irritation and side effects, like bumps and rashes. With that in mind, greatly consider your skin type before buying. Determine if your skin is oily, dry, or sensitive. If you are unsure, you can always consult a dermatologist. Ask for professional recommendations to ensure that what you are buying is indeed safe for your skin. 

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