Why You Need Post-Shave Balm And Cologne

Men's skincare has evolved beyond the days of irritated, burning skin after a shave. An increasing number of men are interested in looking after their skin, and companies have responded by creating a range of products to meet this demand. One such product is post-shave balm, also known as aftershave balm. This is different from traditional aftershaves, which are primarily designed for their fragrance and often contain alcohol that can irritate freshly shaved skin. Post-shave balms, on the other hand, are formulated more like moisturisers to soothe and hydrate the skin, preventing razor burn and leaving the skin feeling smooth and cool. They are especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin, but even those with normal skin can benefit from the cooling effect of a post-shave balm.

Aftershave balm vs lotion vs cologne: what's the difference?

Shaving can leave your skin feeling dry, sensitive, and inflamed, and that's why choosing the right post-shave product is crucial. Aftershave lotion, aftershave balm, and cologne all serve different purposes, and using the wrong one can cause more harm than good.

Aftershave Lotion

Aftershave lotion, sometimes just referred to as aftershave, is scented and often alcohol-based. While it can calm shaving irritation and disinfect any small cuts, the alcohol can also worsen irritation, dry out your skin, and cause it to flake. The lotion usually has a runnier consistency due to its low percentage of alcohol. It can give a slight stinging feeling.

Aftershave Balm

Aftershave balm serves the same primary purpose as aftershave lotion: to soothe your skin after shaving. However, unlike aftershave lotion, balm generally does not contain alcohol and is designed to moisturize your freshly shaved skin. As a result, it usually has a thicker and creamier consistency. A typical aftershave balm has a light scent derived primarily from its key ingredients. Many men find it much gentler on the skin than its alcohol-based counterpart.

Cologne

Cologne is a fragrance with a very weak concentration of scent. It is not an aftershave product as it doesn't contain the necessary properties to hydrate and soothe your skin after shaving. Because most colognes are alcohol-based, you risk exposing yourself to burning skin and possible irritation around any post-shave cuts.

So, which one to choose?

If you have normal skin, we recommend using an aftershave balm. If you have dry skin, you can use either a lotion or balm. And if you have oily skin, an aftershave splash will work best for you. If you have sensitive and acne-prone skin, stay away from balm and splash.

How to use post-shave balm

Post-shave balms are an important part of skincare for men, and they are formulated to soothe and hydrate the skin after shaving. They are designed to be used after shaving to counteract the irritation that can occur, such as redness, dryness, lumps, bumps, and ingrown hairs.

• After shaving, rinse your face with warm water to wash away any remaining shaving cream, soap, hairs, or dead skin particles. Using warm water instead of hot water ensures that you clean your skin thoroughly without stripping it of its natural oils.
• Splash your face with cold water. This will constrict your pores and provide a refreshing feeling.
• Lightly pat your face dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can irritate the skin. Leave your face slightly damp to ease the application of the balm.
• Choose a post-shave balm that suits your skin type and needs. For example, opt for an extra-rich balm if you have dry skin or an unscented balm if you have sensitive skin.
• Take a small amount of the balm and gently massage it into the shaved areas of your face. Ensure that you use enough balm to lightly cover the shaved parts of your face without applying too thick a layer, which can block pores and cause greasiness.
• Once the balm is fully absorbed, follow up with a moisturiser if desired.

It is important to note that post-shave balms are different from aftershaves, which are primarily fragranced products with an alcohol base that can sting sensitive skin. Post-shave balms, on the other hand, are formulated like moisturisers to soothe and hydrate the skin.

Why you should use post-shave balm

Shaving can be a painful chore, but it doesn't have to be. If you're experiencing dry, sensitive, and inflamed skin after shaving, a post-shave balm can help soothe, cool, and moisturize your skin.

Post-shave balms are formulated to be more like moisturisers and are designed to soothe and hydrate the skin after shaving. They are different from aftershaves, which are primarily designed for their fragrance and generally have an alcohol base that can sting sensitive skin.

• Soothe and Hydrate Your Skin: Post-shave balms are designed to soothe and moisturize your skin after shaving. They help to counteract the irritation, dryness, and soreness that can occur due to the shaving process, even if your skin feels fine after shaving.
• Prevent Skin Problems: Regular use of a post-shave balm can help you avoid redness, dryness, lumps, bumps, and ingrown hairs. It also helps to heal any cuts or nicks caused by shaving.
• Contribute to Skin's Healing Process: Post-shave balms are formulated to promote the skin's healing process. They often contain soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera, and some have antiseptic properties to prevent infections.
• Suitable for Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, post-shave balms are a better option than aftershaves as they are milder and contain less alcohol. They are designed to be gentle and non-irritating, making them ideal for those with skin allergies or sensitive skin.
• Provide a Luxurious Feel: Post-shave balms tend to have a richer, creamier consistency, providing a luxurious and indulgent feel after shaving.

In conclusion, using a post-shave balm is an essential step in your shaving routine to maintain healthy and comfortable skin. It helps to soothe irritation, promote healing, and keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

How much post-shave balm should you use?

It can be tempting to slather on a generous amount of balm to ease the irritation of a fresh shave, but it's important to remember that when it comes to post-shave balm, less is more. Applying too much can lead to greasy skin, which is uncomfortable and may further irritate your skin.

A pea-sized amount of balm is usually sufficient to cover the affected area, but it's important to pay attention to your skin's needs and adjust the amount accordingly. The balm should be gently massaged into the skin until it is fully absorbed, and it's best to apply it to damp skin to help it go further and ensure your skin is hydrated.

If you're using a post-shave balm with powerful ingredients or a strong scent, be cautious not to overload your skin to avoid further irritation. Post-shave balms are designed to soothe and heal the skin, so it's important to strike a balance and not overdo it.

Following the application of the balm, you can finish off your routine with a quality moisturiser to ensure your skin is thoroughly nourished and protected.

The best post-shave balms

Post-shave balms are designed to soothe and hydrate the skin after shaving, counteracting any irritation that may have occurred during the shaving process. Even if your skin feels fine after shaving, there are often tiny abrasions on the top layer of the skin, which can be soothed and healed with a post-shave balm.

Aftershave is primarily designed for its fragrance and often has an alcohol base which can irritate the skin. Post-shave balms, on the other hand, are formulated more like moisturisers, with a focus on healing and soothing the skin. While moisturisers are great for hydrating and softening the skin, post-shave balms are designed to aid the skin's healing process.

Recommended Products:

• Nivea Men Sensitive Soothing Post Shave Balm: This alcohol-free balm contains Vitamin E, chamomile and witch hazel extracts, and has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,692 reviews.
• Cremo Cooling Formula Post Shave Balm: With 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,022 reviews, this balm soothes, cools and protects the skin from shaving irritation, dryness and razor burn.
• Harry's Post Shave Balm: This product has received 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,489 reviews.
• Viking Luxury After-Shave Balm: With 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,109 reviews, this balm soothes the face, moisturises after shaving and eliminates razor burn.
• The Art of Shaving After-Shave Balm: This 2-in-1 balm and moisturiser has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,338 reviews. It provides up to 8 hours of hydration and is crafted with jojoba seed oil and shea butter.

Tips for Using Post-Shave Balm:

• Rinse your face with warm water to wash away any remaining shaving cream, soap, hairs or dead skin particles.
• Splash your face with cold water to constrict your pores and refresh your skin.
• Lightly pat your face dry with a towel, leaving it slightly damp to ease the application of your post-shave balm.
• Use your fingertips to gently massage the balm into the areas you've just shaved.
• Follow up with a quality moisturiser.

Frequently asked questions