The Art Of Shaving: Aftershave
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It’s tempting to run out the door as soon as you finish shaving your morning stubble or straightening your mustache lines. However, your face will thank you if you give it some post-shave care in the form of aftershave.
According to Bull Dog Skincare for Men, using aftershave is important because it re-hydrates the skin after you’ve shaved. Shaving not only removes hair from your skin, but it also removes a layer of your skin which unintentionally dries out your pores. Also, shaving leaves behind small cuts in your face that are easy entry points for bacteria which leads to skin irritation and acne. Thus, to keep your face hairless and acne-free, aftershave is a necessity.
When looking for an aftershave, you need to ensure the lotions and mousses you have your eye on contain a couple key ingredients. Isopropyl alcohol – also used in hand sanitizer – is a very important ingredient to help combat the bacteria and toxins that may try sneaking into your pores. Witch Hazel is a good alternative or companion ingredient to the isopropyl because it also has antiseptic properties and it’s acidic so it will decrease the pH of your face, which was increased due to shaving creams, so your skin won’t get dry spots. Finally, aloe leaf juice/gel is a beneficial ingredient for soothing any razor burn or natural trauma shaving has caused your face.
Now that you know the logistics to aftershave, it’s time to purchase some aftershave of your own. If you have sensitive, oily skin, try Harry’s post-shave balm ($8). It contains Aloe to soothe any razor burn and cucumber extract to cool and moisturize. It’s fast drying so your naturally oily skin won’t look shiny after you apply the balm, as would happen if you used most other aftershave products. It’s also paraben and sulfate-free so your sensitive skin won’t get affected by the harsh ingredients.
Another great product for sensitive skin is Murdock’s post shave balm ($31). It’s a lightweight balm so it won’t clog your pores. It also moisturizes your skin and seals your pores so no bacteria can get beneath your skin and affect your face. Among other beneficial ingredients, the balm also contains creatine which helps to keep your face firm, smooth, and youthful.
Finally, if you have dry skin, Dr. Goat’s after shave tonic ($15) is for you. It has only four ingredients (Witch Hazel, Aloe Gel, Glycerin Oil, and Essential Therapeutic Oil) and no harsh manufacturing ingredients. Since there is no alcohol in the product, your skin won’t become dried out and the oils work as hydrating agents to ensure your skin stays soft and smooth. It also cleanses your face and aids in healing any minor shaving cuts.
Stay tuned for next month’s final shaving column when I discuss various lotions and balms you can use after you finish the entire shaving process.