Aftershave Lotion & Balm FAQs
Find out the answers to your most frequent questions about aftershave lotions, when to use aftershave balms and more.
What Is Aftershave Lotion?
Aftershave lotion is a skincare product formulated to help relieve irritation and skin dryness caused by shaving. It is designed to rehydrate, soothe and disinfect the skin. Aftershave lotions should be applied immediately after shaving to be effective.
The best aftershave lotions should be light and fast absorbing. Look for aftershave lotions with ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera and vitamin E to effectively hydrate your skin after shaving. A good aftershave lotion should either be antiseptic or have a low concentration of alcohol to help you avoid infection from any small cuts.
What Does Aftershave Lotion Do?
Aftershave lotion does several things: it soothes and hydrates your skin, reduces itching and swelling from skin damage, and can help to prevent ingrown hairs. Applying aftershave lotions helps to seal the skin in a protective layer after shaving.
Be aware that aftershave lotions are fragranced, unlike most face creams or moisturisers, which means that they can cause irritation if you have sensitive skin or a skin condition like psoriasis.
What's The Best Aftershave Balm?
Your preference for aftershave balm or lotion will depend on how your skin feels after a shave and your skin type. If you have dry skin and often end up with razor bumps, hydrating aftershave lotions will be best. If you have oily skin and struggle with ingrown hairs, a lighter but effective aftershave balm may suit you better.
Recommended aftershave balms, lotions and gels:
- Hermes Terre D'Hermes After-Shave Lotion 100ml
- Issey Miyake L'Eau D'Issey Pour Homme Aftershave Lotion 100ml
- Hermes Terre d'Hermès After-Shave Balm 100ml
- Weleda Men After Shave Balm 100ml
- Clarins Men After Shave Soothing Gel 75ml
If you already have a preferred fragrance, you can find a luxury aftershave balm with the same fragrance, such as:
- Aramis Advanced Moisturizing Aftershave Balm 120ml
- Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male Soothing Aftershave Balm 100ml
- Paco Rabanne 1 Million Aftershave Balm 75ml
What's The Difference Between Aftershave Lotions and Balms?
Aftershave lotion, or splash, is an alcohol based liquid that you would splash on your face after shaving. An aftershave balm is alcohol free and more creamy and helps to hydrate your skin. If you suffer from dry skin, or are prone to razor burn or bumps, balm may be the choice for you. Aftershave Lotion can help to reduce the chances of post-shave irritation too.