To be successful at the art of shaving, men need to consider the before, during and after in equal measure. Prep the Skin with warm water, apply your chosen shaving product like cream, and use a sharp razor. Post shave steps are often neglected but one of the most important products a man can use is a quality Aftershave. 

In this guide, we will review the best aftershaves of 2020 – including the highly popular Baxter of California After Shave Balm.  Furthermore, we will also look at a few of the key things that you need to consider when selecting the best aftershave lotion, splash or balm for you.

Let’s begin:

Comparing The Best Aftershave of 2020

For men that want a quick overview, here is a table outlining each aftershave we looked at based on the following:

• Best For: What we feel is the best use for this aftershave.
• Alcohol: Whether or not the aftershave contained alcohol.
• Price: Indicated by a $ sign, we provide an estimate of the price (relative to others reviewed).

The Best Aftershaves Reviewed in 2020

1. Baxter of California After Shave Balm

Top Award: Best Aftershave Overall

Best Features:

• Alcohol-free aftershave so there’s no burn
• A unique combination of aloe vera, tea tree oil and allantoin
• Menthol provides a cooling sensation and mild scent

Best For:

Men who want the best post-shave balm to relieve the effects of razor burn, including dry skin, irritation, and ingrown hairs.

Summary:

Baxter of California has been awarded the Best Aftershave Overall because that exactly what it is.  It offers many of the features of other top aftershaves, like being Alcohol-free, and brings it home with a unique formula that helps fight symptoms of razor burn while it cools, hydrates and tones your skin.

• The combination of ingredients in this aftershave set it apart from others

Ever heard of allantoin? If not, that’s completely okay! This ingredient is world-renowned and becoming the most popular ingredient to achieve healthy skin that you have never heard of.  Add to those classic ingredients like aloe vera to hydrate, tea tree oil to tone and clean, menthol to cool your skin, and this you see why this unique formula is voted out best overall.

• Works great for men of all skin types

The ingredients in this aftershave, as well as the ones that are not in there, make this product effective for all skin types.  The alcohol-free design means that there is no burn like in some other aftershave products. This product is also great for people with sensitive skin because of its unique moisturizers. If you have oily skin, this product’s moisturizers can help restore healthy hydration to your skin, which allows your skin to produce fewer oils.

• It helps treat symptoms of ingrown hairs

Undoubtedly one of the worst side effects of a man’s shaving routine is ingrown hairs. They are uncomfortable and unsightly. Tea tree oil helps treat the unpleasant symptoms of ingrown hairs for a couple of reasons.  The astringent properties help the pore from becoming infected, while the anti-inflammatory features keep the area from becoming red and visible.

Other Key Features:

• Men reported enjoying the light scent
• Better value than other similar products
• Trusted brand out of L.A. you can turn to for all your skincare needs

2. Duke Cannon Cooling After-Shave Balm

Top Award: Best Smelling Aftershave

Best Features:

• A refined, timeless, and classic fragrance
• Menthol cooling effect
• Made from superior grade ingredients

Best For: 

Men who want an excellent smelling aftershave that provides a unique cooling and instant post-shaving relief with no skin irritation.

Summary:

When it comes to the best smelling aftershave and colognes for men, the Duke Cannon Cooling Aftershave Balm can never be ignored. Not only is this aftershave balm made from natural oils and ingredients that provides hydration and prevents redness and razor burns, but it is also affordably priced compared to other high-quality aftershaves out there. Here’s what we particularly loved about this aftershave:

• A refined, timeless, and classic fragrance

One of the major reasons why men choose the Duke Cannon Cooling Aftershave Balm over other products is because of its awesome smell. This aftershave boasts a light Sandalwood and bergamot fragrance that will not only treat your nostrils to something unique and special but will also leave you feeling handsome, confident, and smelling like a man.

• Menthol cooling effect

The Duke Cannon Cooling Aftershave Balm contains menthol, which provides instant relief with an extraordinary chilling effect that makes you feel like you’ve just planted your face into an Alaskan snowbank. So, if you’re one of those guys who dislike the tingling, burning sensation you get from an alcohol-based aftershave, then this is the right product for you.

• Made from superior grade ingredients

Unlike most aftershaves out there, the Duke Cannon Cooling Aftershave Balm is suitable for use on all skin types. That is because it has no harmful synthetic ingredients and contains a careful selection of natural-grade ingredients like allantoin, tea tree, aloe, and shea butter that supplies excellent hydration to the skin, and minimizes irritation. It also has a variety of extracts and oils like the tamanu oil and Baobab oil that is rich in essential fatty acids along with vitamin C, A, D, and F, which nourishes your skin, relieves signs of aging and repairs skin damages caused by shaving.

Other Key Features:

• Free of alcohol, which dehydrates your skin and gives you a burning, tingling sensation when you apply it to your face.
• It is non-comedogenic. It is free of sulfate, parabens, and other synthetic ingredients that may clog your pores, cause acne, or lead to other skin problems. 
• 6 oz bottle is great for home use, but not travel friendly

3. Jack Black Post Shave Cooling Gel

Top Award: Best Aftershave for Sensitive Skin

Best Features:

• Natural Botanical ingredients 
• Alcohol-free and Fragrance-Free
• Also helps to treat irritation from sunburn

Best For: 

Men with sensitive skin who want an aftershave product for relief from skin irritation post-, ingrown ,and razor burn, who are willing to invest a little extra an product that actually works.

Summary:

Anyone who has had a close shave knows the discomfort of razor burn, especially those of us with sensitive skin. What they may not know is how easy it is to avoid this with Jack Black’s Post Shave Cooling Gel. This is the best aftershave for men with sensitive skin and empowers you to avoid the disappointment you have undoubtedly felt from other products.

• The award-winning formula provides cooling relief from unsightly and uncomfortable razor burn

Since this formula is both alcohol-free and fragrance-free, it is optimally designed to help relieve the visibility of razor burn, as well as the physical discomfort that all men with sensitive skin know. It’s natural botanical ingredients like Rosemary, Sage, and Lavender all work to help heal your skin too. Don’t needlessly suffer any longer. 

• This Aftershave is made with natural ingredients like aloe, shea butter, and witch hazel

This product is made with a variety of natural ingredients that contain the antioxidants and vitamins your sensitive skin needs to stay healthy. Two of the main ingredients, Aloe and Chamomile have been used for centuries as natural medicines for irritation and sunburns. A tried and true combination.

Other Key Features:

• Free of artificial colorants that can further irritate skin
• Made in the USA
• Cruelty-free testing for a conscience as clean as your face

4. DIOR Sauvage After-Shave Lotion

Top Award: Best Aftershave Lotion

Best Features:

• A subtle masculine scent from the World-renowned brand Dior
• Cleans and protects your skin after shaving
• Leaves skin feeling fresh and light compared to heavier aftershaves

Best For:

Any man that feels the way they smell is an important factor in how they present themselves to the world, who also enjoys a close shave and the cooling sensation of an aftershave.

Summary:

Voted the Best Aftershave, DIOR Sauvage combines the unique scent of Sauvage with the cooling sensation of their other aftershave lotions. This product is lighter than other aftershaves and will leave you feeling fresh.

• The scent of Sauvage is appealing to men and women alike

It’s okay to want to smell like a man, in the best sense of the word. Sauvage is described by DIOR as “a man who transcends time and fashion.”  In our research, we came across many women who had given this as a gift for the husbands and were quite happy they did.  The quality is what makes this our best aftershave lotion.

• A combination of Bergamot and Ambergris give this lotion a unique scent

Bergamot is a citrus that when used in Sauvage gives this product the fresh clean scent that you want in an aftershave. The Ambergris is what really makes this product unique, giving it a mild, but unmistakable, woody scent

• This is a lighter lotion, leaving your face feeling light and clean

Many aftershave lotions can feel heavy to men leaving their face feeling sticky. Sauvage is a thinner aftershave that still works to help relieve the effects of razor burn.

Other Key Features:

• Part of a line of Sauvage products from DIOR
• Contains alcohol, which is a natural astringent and disinfectant

5. Clubman Pinaud Virgin Island Bay Rum Aftershave

Top Award: Best Bay Rum Aftershave

Best Features:

• This aftershave has a classic light scent of a Bay Rum cologne  
• Thin body and classic composition
• This aftershave is a great value for a daily use product

Best For:

Men who shave regularly and want a light, classic scent in an aftershave that is too heavy or thick..

Summary:

Bay Rum products feature a warm, classic scent you immediately recognize and love. This is our best bay rum aftershave for several reasons. This light-bodied aftershave helps to cool and tone skin all while leaving you smelling fantastic.

• Light body and classic composition

This bay rum aftershave features a light body, which is great for men that do not want to put anything on that is too oily and can leave your skin feeling greasy. The alchohol in this aftershave works to clean, tone, and relieve skin of razor burn symptoms.

• Scent that is pleasant, but doesn’t overpower

Bay Rum is a classic scent full of warm smelling ingredients. This bottle has a well balanced fragrance, so you do not smell like the day after a frat party.  Men said the scent was lingering, but not overpowering.

• It is priced right for a daily-use item

The 11-ounce bottle is priced at a point that allows for daily use without feeling like you are breaking the bank.  You get all of the features of a more expensive aftershave; cooling and toning skin, relieving razor burn, a pleasant scent, without having to pay a price that other brands might charge.

Other Key Features:

• Made in the US
• Cruelty-free testing
• Good for sensitive skin

6. Pre de Provence After Shave Balm

Top Award: Best Aftershave for Gift Giving

Best Features:

• A moisturizing balm that provides a more soothing experience
• Unique and masculine scent made with citrusy bergamot, sage, and thyme
• An incredible blend of ingredients for a wide range of benefits
• Nice presentation box and package design make it great for gift-giving

Best For:

Men who may experience any degree of razor rash, acne, cracked or dry skin.  The wonderful scent from natural ingredients as well as the powerful benefits makes this a product any man would love to receive.

Summary:

Pre de Provence aftershave balm is our winner of the award for the best aftershave for gift giving. Something that a man might not buy himself, but wonders how he lived without it afterward.  A powerful formula so that a little balm goes a long way. Smell wonderful and feel great doing it.

• This balm gives a little extra care to your skin

With the infusion of shea butter, this balm takes its hydration properties to the next level, and while 2.5 ounces might not sound like much, a little dab will do you. Along with aloe vera, shea butter provides lasting hydration for your face that helps to alleviate so many of the uncomfortable and unsightly symptoms of razor burn

• A craft combination of natural ingredients for a wonderful scent

The natural citrus scent comes from the bergamot, a common fruit found throughout the Mediterranean. The citrus scent gives a distinct sense of clean to the balm.  This scent is supplemented by other natural herbal scents like sage and thyme. 

• A power-house of ingredients

Besides the shea butter and aloe vera that instill incredible moisture in your skin, this unique formula features allantoin, maybe the most common ingredient you may have never heard of. Renowned the world over for its skin healing properties allantoin helps to hydrate your skin so you will be feeling great and looking younger.

Other Key Features:

• No animal testing
• Made in a small, family-owned factory 
• Part of a full line of products you can love and trust

7. NIVEA Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm

Top Award: Best Cheap Aftershave

Best Features:

• This aftershave balm is priced at a value from a name brand you can trust
• Works excellently for men with sensitive skin
• This unique formula works to soothe irritated skin and provide superior moisture 

Best For:

Men who are looking for the superior relief that an aftershave balm can provide from razor burn, that works even for men with sensitive skin.

Summary:

This is our best cheap aftershave, cheap not because it is poor in quality, but because it is priced right! This aftershave is great for men who have sensitive skin that can become very irritated after shaving. This extremely moisturizing product relieves irritation and works to keep skin looking younger and healthier.

• Works to moisturize skin after shaving 

This aftershave balm is a powerful moisturizer, and is also alcohol-free, which is important because alcohol can dry out skin already irritated from shaving.  This formula is not so heavy that it will leaving you feeling sticky, but it will provide your face with ample moisture to relieve the unpleasant and unsightly symptoms of razor burn.

• Its ingredients help support a range of other benefits

Besides being a powerful moisturizer, this balm does a lot more for your skin.  Vitamin E is a powerful anti-inflammatory that keeps your skin cool and calm.  Witch hazel is an astringent that helps keep skin clean and toned. This product will help all the causes of skin irritation while proactively keeping your skin looking healthy and young.

• This is our best cheap aftershave

When we say cheap, we do not mean poor quality, we mean an excellent value. This product is comparable to products that can cost twice as much. The balm is thick enough so that it does not take much product to achieve results, but not so heavy that you feel greasy after using.

Other Key Features:

• Alcohol-free for superior moisturizing
• Has a light-scent that doesn’t over-power you. 
• Created for men with regular skin to even with the most sensitive skin
• TSA-friendly size makes it perfect for air travel

8. Proraso Aftershave Splash

Top Award: Best Aftershave Splash

Best Features:

• Our best aftershave splash because the unique ingredients like menthol provide a stronger cooling sensation compared to other aftershaves. 
• Light-bodied splash that gives you a refreshing, soothing feeling that relieves skin irritation from shaving and helps to keep your skin feeling cool and fresh. 
• Compact container makes it easy to throw in your gym bag or toiletry bag while travelling

Best For:

Men who want a lighter, more traditional aftershave that won’t weigh them down or leave them smelling like a forest fire.

Summary:

Voted our best aftershave splash, this Prosaro aftershave lotion hits all the notes that you want in a classic aftershave. The menthol and eucalyptus provide a cooling sensation and scent that also help relieve skin irritation after shaving. 

• Classic light-bodied aftershave 

Splash a little on and go about your day. The light formula instantly cools and tones your skin, and isn’t so heavy you have to wash your hands after application.

• The addition of witch hazel provides added benefits for your skin

Witch hazel is a tried and true astringent. It will help to keep your skin clean and provides immediate toning to the areas it is applied to.

• Menthol gives a great scent and drives home the cool feeling of this aftershave

The addition of menthol gives this aftershave added dimensions too. Along with alcohol, menthol lends a more lasting cooling sensation after shaving and helps to relieve any irritation.

Other Key Features:

• Perfect for daily use after shaving
• Great for men with more oily skin 
• Cruelty-free testing

What To Consider When Buying An Aftershave

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a post shave product like an aftershave balm, splash or lotion.

1. Beneficial Ingredients

• Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has an incredible healing property to soothe irritated skin, heal sunburns, and alleviate rashes. Developed from the same family of plants that produce tequila, the subtle oils inside of an aloe vera based aftershave helps hydrate the skin by trapping water. It can also calm and prevent razor burn. Best of all, it’s about as natural a product as you can get. Grab a branch from an aloe vera plant, break it open, and use the inside liquid to calm your skin.

• Tea Tree Oil

Also called melaleuca oil, tea tree oil is a natural ingredient that cleanses and refreshes the skin. Tea tree oil is an antiseptic meaning it has disinfecting properties that will flush out the pores from anything that could cause inflammation or irritation. It is derived from the tea tree plant and has a lovely, woody smell. It’s a great natural ingredient for sensitive skin.

• Shea Butter

Similar to witch hazel, shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties and is an excellent product for dry skin as well. It is refined from the nut of the African shea tree and is commonly dyed yellow or golden.

• Witch Hazel

Many aftershaves have made the switch to witch hazel based products rather than alcohol based products because of witch hazel’s natural properties that reduce the size of pores, while keeping skin supple and toned. Witch hazel soothes skin irritation and inflammation and doesn’t have the sting that is commonly associated with alcohol-based aftershaves. It is derived from the bark and leaves of a plant. 

2. Ingredients to Avoid in Aftershaves

• Alcohol

Alcohol based aftershaves tighten and dry out skin, essentially peeling it away in layers. The best aftershaves are alcohol-free or only contain trace amounts of the substance. Alcohol based aftershaves are commonly associated with an aftershave splash that leaves skin stinging and red – think Home Alone or the traditional barbershop fragrance. 

• Acetates

Acetates are a common ingredient in skin care products. They are a form of vitamin E, but they are also an immunotoxicant that can cause allergy and immune system related reactions (source). The substance is often used to remove nail polish so you can imagine what it is doing to your skin.

• Artificial Fragrances

Artificial fragrances are frequently used in aftershaves to create desirable scents. Less desirable are the allergens, carcinogens, and toxins present in these ingredients (source). Many aftershaves come with natural scents from the oils used in them – these are a better bet for men. 

3. Skin Type

When buying an aftershave, its important to identify your skin type in order to find out which product will work best for you.  Here’s a quick overview for each common skin type in men:

• Normal Skin: Normal skin usually doesn’t experience too much irritation or have issues like acne that can arise from neglect or environmental factors. Aftershave splash is usually recommended for men with this skin type but you can use most anything – normal skin is the sweet spot. However, steer clear from products designed for dry skin that leave your skin oily – this can cause new irritation to arise.
• Oily Skin: Oily skin is a result of overactive sebaceous glands that produce too much sebum which in turn clog pores. If you have oily skin, look for witch hazel based products to add to your shaving routine to regulate sebum production and cleanse your skin from bacterias. You may also look into products containing tea tree oil that can help disinfect.
• Dry Skin: Dry skin is usually a result of environmental factors like cold weather, low moisture content in the air, prolonged exposure to hot water, and more. Dry skin can be controlled with an aftershave balm that contains natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, honey, or aloe vera. A balm or aftershave cream is critical here, especially for men who use safety razors, because they will provide ongoing protection from the sun and elements. Rose water is also an excellent ingredient to look for as a solution for dry skin.
• Sensitive Skin: About 60% of the population has sensitive skin, making selecting shaving balms, creams and splashes difficult. This represents millions of people who are prone to breakouts, inflammation, irritation, or adverse reactions to their environment, skin products, clothes, and more. Sensitive skin is best managed with an aftershave balm that contains natural ingredients with anti inflammatory properties. These products will prevent dryness while keeping bacteria away and skin cells supple.

4. Aftershave Scents

• Scented

Essential oils are natural oils that add fragrance to an aftershave balm, splash or lotion. Common essential oils include rose, menthol, lavender, and vanilla. Sandalwood aftershave balm is one of the most popular ingredients. There are also natural ingredients added to create a nice scent such as lemongrass, chamomile, cedarwood, sandalwood, or spruce. The best aftershaves will use one or more of these essential oils for a great smelling product. These natural ingredients add a nice smell and fresh scent and is the perfect way to conclude your routine for shaving.

• Unscented

If you have sensitive skin that frequently has poor reactions to scented lotions, aftershaves, and skin products in general, go for the unscented aftershave. An unscented aftershave guarantees that you won’t experience inflammation from added scent products.

5. Type of Aftershave

• Aftershave Balm

An aftershave balm is usually seen as an alternative to aftershave splash. Shave balm focuses on moisturizing the skin and has lots of natural ingredients like shea butter that successfully serves this purpose. Aftershave balms are full of natural oils like coconut and castor. Aftershave balms should be rubbed onto the skin like a lotion. Balms continue to work well after they are dry.

• Aftershave Lotion

Aftershave lotions aren’t very common but are growing in popularity. A great addition to your shaving routine to rejuvenate skin and prevent irritation that is common for people who have dry skin. Consider getting a lotion with natural ingredients. 

• Aftershave Splash

Aftershave splash is one of the original aftershave products. It comes in a liquid form and is the most common type of aftershave. Aftershave splash is to be, like the name says, splashed and rubbed on the face. Many are alcohol-based so look for something that is not. 

We go into the details further in this article comparing aftershave balms, lotions, and splashes.

6. Price

The price of aftershave varies from one brand to another.  In our research, we found that most aftershaves range between $10 to $50.  The reason for the large price range largely has to do with both brand reputation and quality of ingredients.  

3 Must-Have Shaving Products You Should Also Pick Up

1. Shaving Cream

Shaving cream is an essential part of any good shaving routine. Make sure that your shaving cream or lotion follows the same needs your aftershave does, in terms of skin sensitivity or ingredients. The right shaving cream will encourage smooth and healthy skin when you’re shaving.  Check out our detailed reviews of shave creams available today.

2. Facial Scrub

Facial scrubs are the best products for getting rid of dead skin and exfoliating so you have a smooth surface early on in your skin care routine. Dead skin can cause irritation as you shave and cause your razors to dull more quickly. A facial scrub made from natural ingredients, like sea salt, can help open up the pores and soften the hair.

3. Razor

Of course, the best aftershave should be paired with the best razor. Finding the perfect razor that fits your skin type and needs is the key to a great shaving routine and make take some trial and error. There are plenty of groom products available as subscription boxes or in your grocery store. Remember, number of blades doesn’t always equate to better shave – some of the best razors out there are single-blade safety razors. 

Aftershave FAQs

Why should I use aftershave?

You should use aftershave regardless of your skin type to disinfect and provide soothing to qualities to your skin. Remember, that shaving will cause irritation no matter what. Depending on skin type, this irritation could be better or worse. Using an aftershave will help you combat irritation and razor burn.

Can I use aftershave if I’m sunburned?

Yes, in fact many aftershaves can be used if you haven’t shaved at all. Aftershave creams and lotions with aloe vera, tea tree oil and other ingredients can help your skin heal more quickly after a sunburn. Avoid any after shave lotions or balms that have alcohol.

Can aftershave help acne?

Yes, the correct aftershave can help acne by keeping the freshly shaved skin clean and free of bacteria and also helping to repair and moisturize skin. Your doctor may also recommend aftershave that can be used to help your acne and soothe skin.

Can aftershave expire?

Aftershave with fragrance will certainly expire in that the scent will fade. Additionally, if you’re using aftershave that is derived from natural ingredients, you should look carefully at the best by date.

Can aftershave prevent ingrown hairs?

Aftershave itself does not prevent ingrown hairs, but washing your skin with a high quality scrub or soap after shaving, then following with an aftershave can help a great deal. 

Aftershave vs. the 3 Alternatives

1. Toner

Skin toner is specifically designed to cleanse skin and close pores, making their appearance less stark. Toner can be used after shaving, but if you are prone to razor burn it can make it worse by trapping dirt or bacteria in pores.

2. Face Lotion

Face lotion and aftershave or balm can be substantially similar in that they both contain elements meant to moisturize skin. Lotion, however, tends not to contain ingredients to soothe or clean skin like aftershave does. If you’re in a pinch after shaving, you can use lotion – it’s better than nothing.

3. Cologne

Cologne is only designed for the purposes of scent and is not designed to soothe skin. In fact, many colognes are alcohol based and can cause more irritation.

Our Criteria for Choosing the Best Aftershave

There you have it – the best aftershaves of 2020.

Our criteria for selecting the best aftershave relied on ingredients, skin type and your needs. We also looked for aftershaves that were alcohol and chemical-free and had a great scent. At the end of the day, you have to choose an aftershave or balm that is right for you – we hope this guide does that for you.