Stay tuned, shavers!
While shaving has gone on for over 60,000 years, we largely have the Romans to thank foraftershave.
The acidity in the vinegar cleaned the shaved area, and the oil kept the skin smooth.
In this article, we will talk about everything you gotta know about the aftershave.
Table of Contents
What Is Aftershave?
It can have a variety of different ingredients, which determine what the aftershave does for your skin.
The traditional alcohol-based aftershave splashes only disinfect the shaved area.
Others with oils soothe the irritated shaved area and keep your skin hydrated.
We will let you know what ingredients to look out for later in this article.
What Does Aftershave Do?
As mentioned above,not all aftershaves are the same nor do they do the same thing.
Some have more benefits than others.
However, your aftershave should at least perform one or all the following.
They may also develop because of friction between the razor blade and your skin.
Whatever the case, these tiny cuts pop launch the door to infections.
That said, avoid alcohol-based aftershaves made using isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol) or ethyl alcohol.
Tighten Pores
Have you ever noticed red and itchy bumps after shaving?
If you have, you probably have or hadfolliculitis.
The astringent quality also helps reduce and eventually stop bleeding by constricting blood vessels.
An aftershave can also cover the hair follicle openings, reducing infections that cause itchiness and soreness.
Soothe Irritation and Moisturize Skin
Shaving causes skin irritation which can leave the area itchy.
An aftershave withanti-inflammatory propertiescan reduce this skin irritation.
It should also keep your skin hydrated, smooth, and healthy.
Having one can leave you feeling refreshed and more confident.
Is Aftershave Necessary?
For the most part, yes.
Shaving often leads to cuts and wounds, which can get infected without any intervention.
An aftershave helps prevent infections and soothes irritated skin.
In some cases, it can moisturize and refreshen skin depending on the ingredients present.
A little aftershave goes a long way in helping your skin after shaving.
Need a recommendation on which aftershave to use?Heres ourlist of the most soothing aftershaves for men.
What Is in Your Aftershave?
Aftershave has several ingredients.
Alcohol
It is present in some aftershaves and sterilizes the shaven area, keeping infections at bay.
It also has astringent properties that tighten the skin and pores, providing an unsuitable environment for bacteria.
Despite these properties, alcohol used in aftershaves reduces the production ofsebum.
Sebum naturally helps protect and moisturize skin.
A decrease leads to dry skin, which explains why alcohol-based aftershaves leave your skin feeling dry.
Witch Hazel
It is anatural alternativeto alcohol in aftershaves.
It can also repair skin, helping it return to health in no time.
Glycerin
Glycerin acts as a humectant, and this is why it is popular with cosmetic manufacturers.
It prevents moisture loss in the skin by absorbing surrounding water and keeping it within the skin.
The humectant property helps keep your skin fresh, moist, and soft.
Shea Butter
Shea butter comes from the nut of the African Shea tree.
It has moisturizer qualities that keep your skin soft and hydrated.
Other moisturizing oils include coconut and jojoba oil.
Essential Oils
These are compounds extracted from plants for aromatherapy purposes.
Watch out for the unscientific claims of the many healing and soothing properties some essential oils have.
Examples ofessential oilsused to make aftershaves are lavender and eucalyptus oil.
Aloe Vera
We cannot sing enough praises about Aloe Vera.
Types of Aftershaves
Aftershaves mainly come in three types: balm, lotion, or splash.
It moisturizes and refreshes irritated and damaged skin after a shave.
It can also help reduce razor burns.
It is also excellent for shavers in cold and dry climates.
Related Reading:Beard Balm vs.
Beard Oil
Aftershave Lotion
An aftershave lotion has a creamy, light, and sometimes runny consistency.
It helps keep the skin moist, soft, and smooth by reducing dryness.
Aftershave Splash
The aftershave splash has a water-like consistency.
It has the highestalcoholcontent of up to 75% in some aftershaves.
An aftershave splash has an overpowering scent that can linger for long.
It is best to skip on your favoritecologneor body spray when you use an aftershave splash.
Because of the high alcohol content in the splash, the skin tends to feel dry after program.
The aftershave balm, lotion, and splash are the most common aftershaves used.
However, shavers may also come across the following aftershave products.
If you stay in a humid area, then grab some aftershave splash.
Take a look at this brief guide.
Normal skin is even-textured, appears smooth and healthy.
Men with this throw in of skin can use the full range of aftershaves.
This throw in of skin feels oily when touched.
It also appears shiny around the forehead, nose, and chin.
It has large pores and easily suffers from blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
Men with oily skin should use aftershave splashes.
Dry skin feels rough when touched.
It may also appear dull and chaffed.
In other instances, it may be peeling and cracked.
Stick with a balm that has moisturizing properties.
It should also have mild to no scent components in the aftershave balm.
you’re free to also select an aftershave specifically designed for shavers with sensitive skin.
It is common to find men (and women) with a combination of two or more skin types.
This should not worry you, and a safe bet for is a non-alcohol-based aftershave lotion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does aftershave burn?
The skin burns when the alcohol in the aftershave comes into contact with surface nicks and wounds.
Can you use aftershave balm as a moisturizer?
Yes, when used immediately after using an aftershave splash post-shaving.
No, if you intend to use it as an everyday moisturizer without shaving.
Moisturizing creams and lotions are made for long-term use and can keep skin moist throughout the day.
Cologne vs. Aftershave
Aftershave prevents infections and moisturizes skin post-shaving.
While some aftershaves have fragrances, this is not their primary task.
On the other hand, colognes keep you smelling fresh for several hours a day.
For best results, apply a cologne at pulse points and immediately after a shower.
How long does aftershave last?
Aftershave can last up to two to three hours after applying.
Can you make aftershave at home?
Yes, it is possible to make your aftershave at home.
Always try out a new concoction on a small patch of skin before applying it to the entire surface.
