What Is Aftershave and Why Do You Need It? 

written by Saurabh_Sharma

edited by CHIQIO

key words: aftershave

shaving is a must-do for a lot of us, but it can be rough on our skin. It can leave your face feeling  irritated, dry, and maybe even a little sore. That’s where aftershave comes in! 

Aftershave is kind of like a lotion, balm, or liquid you put on your face and neck after shaving. It might  seem like it’s just there for a nice smell, but aftershave actually has a bunch of benefits to keep your skin  feeling healthy and comfortable. 

Soothing Relief for Beat-Up Skin: 

Shaving messes with your skin’s natural defenses, kind of like taking off the top layer. This can lead to  redness, irritation, and that uncomfortable tight feeling. Luckily, a lot of aftershave products have  ingredients specifically designed to calm and soothe your skin. Some of these ingredients include: 

∙ Witch hazel: This natural astringent helps tighten pores and reduce inflammation. 

∙ Aloe vera: You might already know this one for its sunburn relief. Aloe vera in aftershave helps  soothe irritation and promotes healing too. 

∙ Allantoin: This is a tongue twister, but it helps reduce redness and irritation while also helping  your skin regenerate new cells.

Hydration is Key: 

Shaving can also suck the moisture out of your skin, leaving it feeling dry and tight. Aftershave helps put  that moisture back in and keep your skin feeling comfortable. Here are some of the ingredients in  aftershave that help with hydration: 

∙ Emollients: These ingredients soften your skin and make it more elastic. 

∙ Humectants: These attract moisture to your skin and help it stay there, keeping it nice and  hydrated. 

∙ Natural oils: Jojoba oil, almond oil, and shea butter are all popular choices because they provide  deep hydration and nourishment for your skin.

A Little Disinfection Goes a Long Way: 

Shaving can create tiny nicks or cuts in your skin, which can be openings for bacteria. Aftershave with  antiseptic properties can help disinfect the area and reduce the risk of infection. 

Some traditional aftershaves use alcohol as a disinfectant, but alcohol can also be drying and irritating to  some skin types. If you have sensitive skin, look for aftershave with witch hazel or other natural  antiseptic ingredients for a gentler option. 

Finding the Right Aftershave for You 

There are different aftershave options out there, so you can find the perfect one for your skin type: 

∙ Lotions and balms: These are great for dry or sensitive skin because they provide deep hydration  and a soothing layer of protection. 

∙ Splashes: Traditionally these are alcohol-based and give you a refreshing feeling. If you have  sensitive skin, opt for alcohol-free splashes. 

∙ Gels: Gels are lightweight and absorb quickly, making them a good choice for oily skin. 

The key is to consider your skin type and what benefits you’re looking for when choosing an aftershave.  Fragrance is another factor, but remember a strong scent doesn’t necessarily mean a good aftershave. If  you have sensitive skin, look for aftershave with natural fragrances or opt for fragrance-free altogether. 

So Do You Really Need Aftershave? 

Aftershave isn’t a must-have for everyone. If you have super oily skin and don’t experience any irritation  after shaving, you might be okay skipping it. But for most guys, aftershave offers a range of benefits that  can improve the comfort and health of your skin. 

So next time you shave, don’t forget the aftershave! It can be the finishing touch to a smooth, irritation free shave and a healthy, comfortable complexion.