The aftershave is a well-known cosmetic product that has been changing and evolving over the last decades. If before it was expected to be a liquid substance that burns, disinfecting small cuts and nicks while delivering a strong perfume, now it tends to look more like your average moisturizer. Yes, you’ll still find your classic barbershop like aftershaves, but you have plenty of other presentations to choose from. Below, we’re discussing what a man’s aftershave is and how necessary it is for you and your grooming habits. Join us to find the answer to all that, as well as a list of our favorite formulas in a variety of presentations.
What is a man’s aftershave?
A man’s aftershave is a cosmetic product that soothes and repairs the skin after facial hair removal. Men’s aftershave not only moisturizes the skin post-shaving but also repairs the skin, all the while delivering a pleasant masculine fragrance. These products can present as a liquid lotion, a gel, a cream, or a balm, and you should go for the one that better suits your preferences.
Is aftershave necessary for men?
What your skin really needs after shaving is to recover. For that, it needs some time, and, ideally, a cosmetic formula that helps to calm the skin to minimize irritation and redness while restoring hydration. You don’t necessarily have to use a man’s aftershave post-shaving for that; a good repairing moisturizer may do the trick. However, man’s aftershave formulas deliver everything your skin needs at the same time: the repairing action, may even help to heal minor nicks and cuts, all the while delivering that refreshing fragrance that aftershaves are known for.
What happens if you don’t use aftershave?
Without an aftershave of some sort, you may experience increased skin irritation and dryness. Shaving can be quite harsh, and it is likely that your skin presents signs of sensitivity or irritation, as well as skin tightness or even itchiness, which can be uncomfortable. Before deciding to skip aftershave altogether, look around to find a minimalist cream formula, preferably a repairing one, to help your skin recover. If you have the chance, we’d strongly recommend that you find an aftershave formula. Having that in mind, we have prepared a list for you. Keep scrolling!
Men’s aftershave formulas that reenergize your skin
Your skin can greatly benefit from the repairing and soothing action of an aftershave product post-shaving. With that in mind, we’ve selected our favorite aftershaves, featuring different presentations, from lotions to replenishing balms. If you’re not sure where to begin, go for a type of product that you are already familiar with!
ClarinsMen After Shave Soothing Toner
A refreshing & invigorating toner
ClarinsMen After Shave Soothing Toner
With this formula, ClarinsMen delivers a refreshing boost of comfort to skin that’s just been shaved. This invigorating formula helps ease post-shave discomfort by cooling the skin, reducing razor-induced irritation, and providing a hydrating action. Thanks to a mild exfoliating action, it contributes to a smoother surface while preventing ingrown hairs. The exclusive Clarins plant-based Anti-Pollution Complex also helps to protect the skin from environmental damage, making this lightweight and non-sticky toner the ideal post-shaving solution.
Proraso Aftershave Lotion Coarse Beards Sandalwood and Shea Oil
A classic nourishing oil
Proraso Aftershave Lotion Coarse Beards Sandalwood and Shea Oil
Complete the traditional shaving routine with this Proraso aftershave lotion. As you apply it, it delivers an immediate soothing action that helps repairing freshly shaved skin. The formula combines nourishing shea butter with sandalwood oil to boost hydration, all the while enhancing softness and supporting the needs of thicker and coarser beards. The scent is warm and woody, granting a comforting, classic touch to the grooming experience.
Hawkins & Brimble After Shave Balm
A rich, nourishing balm
Hawkins & Brimble After Shave Balm
Combining olive oil, almond oil, and cocoa, this formula delivers a lasting nourishing action to the skin. This blend helps restore skin hydration levels, all the while soothing the skin and minimizing sensitivity. Lightweight and quickly absorbed, the balm replenishes moisture lost during shaving, making it an excellent daily moisturizer for all skin types, especially normal to dry skin. Versatile and gentle, it is ideal for those looking for a formula that works both as an everyday moisturizer and an effective finishing step post-shaving.
Mádara HIS. Aftershave Serum
A soothing, lightweight serum
Mádara HIS. Aftershave Serum
Recover your skin with ease and comfort using this aftershave serum. Incredibly lightweight, this serum soothes irritation, reducing the likelihood of post-shave breakouts while preventing ingrown hairs. At the same time, it works to strengthen the skin barrier, improving the natural shield of the skin against daily aggressions. Powered by organic-certified ingredients, including northern chanterelle and antioxidant-rich oak bark, it also helps minimize visible signs of aging.
Roger&Gallet Cologne Twist Aftershave Gel
A fresh & fragrant gel
Roger&Gallet Cologne Twist Aftershave Gel
This aftershave gel brings a hydrating action and a refreshing touch to finish your shaving routine. The lightweight gel absorbs quickly into the skin to deliver immediate comfort, instantly minimizing irritation and reducing the typical post-shave sting. Sage extract and other natural ingredients work to leave the skin feeling soothed and moisturized without any greasy residue. The uplifting fragrance, blending bright citrus notes with hints of white woods and spicy elemi, further elevates the experience.
Biotherm Homme Basics Line Aftershave Emulsion
A solution for dry & sensitive skin
Biotherm Homme Basics Line Aftershave Emulsion
Formulated to soothe and restore skin comfort after shaving, this alcohol-free emulsion relieves burning sensations and calms irritation. Tested under dermatological control on sensitive skin, this rich, balm-like texture absorbs rapidly and supports the skin barrier with moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter, squalane, and sodium hyaluronate. Ideal for sensitive or dry skin, this formula helps to restore skin hydration, promoting a quick skin recovery while granting the much-needed comfort.
Hugo Boss Boss Bottled Aftershave Balm
A perfume in a balm
Hugo Boss Boss Bottled Aftershave Balm
Featuring the signature Boss Bottled fragrance, this Hugo Boss aftershave balm offers a restorative last step on your shaving routine. In a simple soothing step, the formulation delivers an energizing aromatic experience, enveloping the skin in long-lasting comfort. The scent opens with fruity freshness before unfolding into a spicy-floral heart and a warm base of sandalwood, cedar, and vetiver. Include it in your routine to elevate your daily grooming and add further intensity to your favorite fragrance.
For more on beard care, check our complete guide!
