How to Use Aftershave

How to Use Aftershave

Knowing how to use aftershave can be done right and easily without the need to slap the product on your face. It is an essential step after shaving to help soothe the skin and prevent infections.

A lot of men shave, but not every one of them uses an aftershave. Since only a few consider incorporating it in their shaving ritual, not all men know what aftershave is. Sometimes, they even confuse it with cologne, which has a different purpose.

If you have never had an aftershave before or you are considering using one, we hope by now you already know what is best to opt for.

In this article, you will learn:

What is Aftershave?

An aftershave is a shaving product that you apply to your face after shaving. It hydrates and disinfects any minor cuts or nicks on your skin. Aftershaves are excellent because they have cleansing properties that prevent acne-causing bacteria from invading the deeper layers of the skin, which may lead to unwanted infections.

However, some men experience extreme irritation with a rashy feeling on their freshly shaved skin when applying this post-shave essential. You can address this concern by identifying the culprit of itchy and painful red bumps. The best way to do this is to know about the common aftershave ingredients that may lead to this irritation.

One of the main raison d’etre of aftershave burn is its alcohol content. You already know how cuts—no matter how small—reacts to alcohol. Hence, if your aftershave has a high alcohol content, chances are it will probably sting—a lot.

Yet, the sting should not steer you away from using an aftershave. Besides, it is not part of the ingredients for nothing. It is there because of its antimicrobial properties. But that should be the least of your worries since not all aftershave products sting.

Man Applying AftershaveApplying aftershave—may it be a balm, lotion, or splash—is a hygienic way to end your shaving routine.

Knowing Your Skin Type

The key to finding an aftershave that will not sting your skin is to know your skin type first before buying one. Aside from that, you can also read more about aftershave balm, aftershave lotion, and aftershave splash differences for a better guide.

Most people only have a vague idea about their exact skin type. Below is a simple overview of each skin type to help you out:

  • Normal skin
    If your T-zone (forehead, chin, and nose) has overall balanced moisture and sebum, you have normal skin. Your skin is neither too dry nor too oily and has a radiant complexion with a regular texture and soft appearance. Spots and blemishes are also hardly visible, making your skin appear healthy. In this case, you could use an aftershave balm or any mild splash.
  • Dry skin
    Your skin can peel, crack, or become itchy, inflamed, or irritated. If it is very dry, it can become scaly and rough. When you use skincare or shaving products, your skin also happens to break out in a rash. If you have dry sensitive skin, you will need to consider using aftershave with ingredients such as beeswax and aloe vera, which are highly moisturizing to help keep your skin hydrated.
  • Oily skin
    Oily skin is the easiest skin type to distinguish. Your face appears persistently shiny or greasy due to the excess oil. Excessive fat production by sebaceous glands as one of the effects of hormonal or genetic causes results in extra oil on your skin.

    Oily skin also attracts dust and dirt, making it prone to acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) due to the clogged and congested pores. There are techniques to shave acne-prone skin, and in this case, you will also want an aftershave splash.
After assessing which type of skin you have, it will be easier for you to choose whatever skincare product is necessary for your post-shave routine. We recommend consulting with a dermatologist to make sure you get it right.

Benefits of Aftershave

“A well-chosen aftershave can help to prevent the discomfort that may occur following a shave. Shaving can remove the outermost layer of your skin. That can create irritation and dryness. Applying aftershave provides protection and lubrication for your skin.” - Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Incorporating the application of aftershave in your shaving routine offers a wide variety of benefits. It may not be widely known to be necessary, but it has become essential for some men. Here are some of the many reasons they decide to keep using aftershave and why you should too.

  • Hygienic
    Using aftershaves is hygienic, considering the antibacterial properties present in the ingredients. Skin infections may occur if microbes and other debris clog your pores. Luckily, aftershaves address this concern.

    The ingredients with their antifungal and antibacterial properties will help kill the bacteria and prevent them from entering the skin’s deep layer, which reduces the risk of skin problems such as acne and ingrown hairs.
  • Moisturizing and nourishing
    Shaving can cause dry skin aside from cuts and nicks. When you are shaving, the foam that rests on top of your skin has water content. And prolonged exposure to water causes your skin to get dry, which may result in irritation if you do not use aftershave.

    Aftershaves with aloe vera and chamomile decrease dry sports and produce a light, moisture-preserving veil for long-lasting hydration. Hence, aftershaves are a worthy investment since it nourishes your skin, helping it look more enhanced.
  • Refreshing aroma
    Aftershaves are different from colognes but not quite in the aspect of scents and fragrances. Aftershaves available in the market have a wide variety of fragrances that you can choose from, including essential oils like lavender, green tea, and cedarwood to produce a natural aroma. Applying aftershave can make you feel great and confident because it will let you smell distinctively fresh.
Man In front of a mirror looking at the aftershaveAftershaves give your hair and skin a lot of benefits. That is why choosing the right aftershave and knowing its ingredients is essential.

The Easy and Right Way to Use Aftershave

Now that you already know what aftershave is and why you should use it, you probably wonder how you will apply it?

An avid film fan may have seen a character or two use aftershave after wet shaving with a straight razor. And their method of application? Slapping it on their faces. You can try that if you are feeling adventurous.

On the other hand, we suggest you just follow these steps to learn how to use aftershave effectively:

  1. Follow your usual shaving routine. Once you complete your shave, use cold water to wash your face clean. The cold water helps to fill out your visible wrinkles and slows down the process of aging. It unclogs the pores that get opened up, and it allows for protection when the skin gets exposed to the sun’s harmful rays.

  2. Make sure to dry your face thoroughly with a clean hand towel. Keep in mind to not rub the towel on your skin because it can cause skin damage, and you do not want that.

  3. Pour out about a dime-sized amount of aftershave product of your choice into your palm. Rub the aftershave into both of your hands in a circular motion to spread it evenly. This step is necessary for flawless application.

  4. Start applying gently on the face, especially in the most sensitive and freshly shaved areas, starting at the cheekbones down to your jawline. Apply on your chin, upper lips, and finish up by applying on the neck area.

  5. Consider applying a second coat since some aftershaves tend to dry out fast.

As you can see, applying aftershave is as simple as that.

Go For Luxurious and Natural Aftershave

Remember that not all aftershave in the market is suitable for you. Again, some of it may have more alcohol content than others. Some even have synthetic ingredients to replace natural fragrances and colors. All of these factors are what you should be looking out for when shopping for this post-shave essential.

Why look elsewhere when you can get what you need from us at Naked Armor? We have the most luxurious aftershaves that are gentle and nourishing for your skin. All of them are composed of natural ingredients and essential oils that will truly leave your skin supple, hydrated, and clean to achieve the utmost satisfying shaving experience you need.

We recommend you use an organic one to escape the irritation and burning sensation. Getting yourself anything from our Long Rifle Aftershave collection or our Aftershave All-Purpose Balm with Hemp is a smart solution. The aftershaves have the right ingredients that will suit all skin types. You can also make a DIY Aftershave using natural and uncomplicated ingredients to ensure that every component is suitable for your skin.


Click here to check out our line-up.

Related Naked Armor Reads:
Natural Aftershave for Men
What's the Difference Between Aftershave & Cologne
The Newbie Guide to Straight Razor Shaving


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