You would like to buy an aftershave. While you're busy searching, you suddenly come across all sorts of different terms like "aftershave lotion" or "aftershave balm. Uh, now what? You don't want to fuss with difficult terms but just a remedy that you can put on after shaving. We're going to help you with that.
All men put something on their face after shaving. At least, we hope so. But why do we actually do that? What is aftershave? What is it good for, and does it matter which one you buy? Let us tell you that it does matter quite a bit. So we'll explain to you what the differences are and which aftershave is best to buy.
Why do we use aftershave?
Useful to know before you make your choice is why we actually apply aftershave to our skin. First to clear up the biggest misunderstanding, an aftershave is not meant to be a perfume. Yes aftershaves have different scents, of course, but they dissipate quite quickly. The concentration of fragrance ingredients is even lower than in a cologne and therefore not exactly suitable to be used purely as a fragrance.
When we shave, our pores are opened. This makes your skin vulnerable to bacterial infections. The primary purpose of aftershave is to immediately close those pores again. This is because aftershave has an astringent effect on your skin. Therefore, an aftershave is also often a godsend for minor wounds. But of course we all have different skin types. That is why there are also different types of aftershaves. They all do more or less something different for your skin.
What is aftershave?
The classic aftershave is usually just called aftershave or splash. As such, most do not have a spray feature. This is the classic liquid aftershave that everyone is familiar with. The fragrance percentage in an aftershave is very low at 2 to 4% and it therefore dissipates fairly quickly.
Often aftershaves do contain a certain percentage of alcohol. This disinfects the skin and immediately closes the pores. By the way, it often gives a very tingling sensation on the skin. Not everyone likes that. If you have sensitive or very dry skin, these aftershaves are not really suitable for you.
Features of an aftershave:
- Have a refreshing and tingling effect
- Thinner in substance than a lotion or balm
- Contain a lot of alcohol for the antiseptic effect
- Least amount of fragrance
What is aftershave lotion?
Aftershave lotion contains more moisturizing ingredients than a balm. Aftershave lotions contain little to no alcohol, but often more mineral oils. These ensure that you don't get dry skin after shaving. So if you suffer from dry skin, aftershave lotion may be the right aftershave for you. Aftershave lotion often has a more intense scent than normal aftershaves but is just as liquid as the classic aftershave.
Do you suffer from acne? Then it is better not to use an aftershave lotion because of the glycerin it often contains. Then a regular aftershave or aftershave balm is a better option.
Properties of aftershave lotion:
- Contains little to no alcohol
- Moisturizes the skin
- Often has a stronger scent
- Makes the skin soft
- As liquid as an aftershave
What is aftershave balm?
Aftershave balms are actually meant to soften and moisturize the skin. Natural ingredients such as Aloe Vera and Allantoin are often used for this purpose. In addition, essential Jojoba, Castor, Ricinus, Coconut and Avocado oils are usually also part of a good aftershave balm.
Aftershave balm is ideal for men who suffer from sensitive or dry skin. Also, if you suffer from irritation after shaving or a burning sensation, an aftershave balm is the best solution. Compared to lotions, aftershave balm is even slightly thicker and creamier. They also have the most subtle scent of all aftershaves.
Features of aftershave balm:
- Aftershave balm helps best against irritation and burning sensation after shaving
- Looks more like a cream than a lotion and splash
- Contains no alcohol
- Best moisturizes and conditions the skin
- Gentle fragrance
We select the best aftershaves for you
Take a look at your own skin and which of the above features best suit your preference. Have you made your choice? Then just see which products are the best. For each type of aftershave we have compiled a top 10 of products that we think are very good.
We would venture to say out loud that there is a perfect aftershave for every face. Whether it's a splash, lotion or balm. If you still have questions, feel free to contact us. That's what we're here for. You know where to find us!
Good luck!
Your friends, The Alpha Men