What Does Aftershave Do? Importance and 5 Benefits Explained

You’ve just finished shaving, your face is smooth, and you’re about to head out the door. Should you slap on some aftershave, or is that just something your dad did? 

If you’ve ever wondered what aftershave actually does and why it’s worth using, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down the importance of aftershave, what it does for your skin, and why you should make it a part of your grooming routine.

What Is Aftershave?

Before we look at the benefits, let’s clarify what aftershave is. 

Aftershave is a liquid, gel, or lotion you apply to your face after shaving. It’s designed to help soothe your skin, manage irritation, close your pores, and leave you smelling good. 

It’s not really about the smell, though. Rather, it’s a crucial step in your skincare routine that can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels.

What Are the Different Types of Aftershave?

Aftershave comes in a few different forms. The most common are:

Splash

Splash aftershaves are liquids with a strong alcohol base that give you that classic “sting” when you apply them. Splash is suitable for disinfecting cuts but can be drying.

Lotion

Lotion is a milder option that still contains some alcohol, but is often mixed with moisturizers to hydrate your skin.

Balm

Finally, there’s the most moisturizing option: a balm. It’s usually alcohol-free, making it great for sensitive or dry skin.

Each type has its own pros and cons, and the right one for you depends on your skin type and personal preferences.

Why Is Aftershave Important?

Why should you bother with aftershave at all? The importance of aftershave lies in its ability to counteract some of the less-than-awesome side effects of shaving. After all, shaving can be rough on your skin, especially if you do it daily. 

Shaving can often leave your skin irritated, dry, and prone to breakouts or ingrown hairs. Aftershave helps mitigate these issues by providing a soothing cool, closing up your pores, and providing a layer of protection against bacteria.

The Impact of Shaving on Your Skin

When you shave, you’re cutting off hair and scraping off a thin layer of skin. This exfoliation is good in moderation but can leave your skin vulnerable to irritation, dryness, and minor cuts. On top of that, shaving opens up your pores, which can let in bacteria and lead to breakouts or infections if you’re not careful.

That’s where aftershave comes into play. It’s like the superhero of your shaving routine, stepping in at the last minute to save your skin from the potential downsides of grooming.

What Are the Benefits of Using Aftershave?

Now that you know why aftershave is important, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. 

Here are five reasons to consider making aftershave a regular part of your routine:

1. Manages Irritation and Mitigates Redness

One of the most immediate benefits of aftershave is its ability to calm your skin after you shave. 

No matter how carefully you shave, dragging a razor across your face can cause skin irritation. This irritation often appears as redness, razor burn, or that annoying, itchy feeling.

Aftershave, especially balms and lotions, contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and witch hazel that help manage this irritation. These ingredients work by cooling down your skin, mitigating inflammation, and providing relief from a powerful razor. 

2. Disinfects and Protects Against Infection

Shaving can cause tiny nicks and cuts in your skin, even if you don’t always notice them. These micro-cuts are the perfect entry points for bacteria, which can lead to skin infections, ingrown hairs, and pimples. Aftershave with an alcohol base acts as an antiseptic, killing bacteria and preventing infection.

However, alcohol-based aftershaves can be drying, which is why modern formulas include hydrating ingredients to balance things out. If you have sensitive skin, you might prefer an aftershave balm with antiseptic properties that won’t dry out your skin as much as traditional splashes.

3. Closes Pores and Tightens Skin

After you shave, your pores are wide open, making it easier for dirt and bacteria to get in and cause problems. Aftershave helps close your pores, tightening the skin and reducing the risk of post-shave breakouts. This tightening effect can also give your skin a smoother, more polished look, which is always a bonus.

Closing your pores also helps lock in moisture, which is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. This is especially important if you’re using a shaving cream or gel that might have stripped away some of your skin’s natural oils during the shave.

4. Hydrates and Moisturizes

Shaving can strip away natural oils from your skin, leaving it feeling dry and tight. Enter aftershave balms and lotions. They’re packed with moisturizing ingredients to help replenish your skin’s moisture barrier. This is especially important in colder weather when your skin is more prone to dryness.

A good aftershave balm hydrates your skin, making it feel soft and smooth. Look for aftershaves containing ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, or jojoba oil, which are known for their hydrating properties. Keeping your skin moisturized isn’t just about feeling good—it also helps prevent fine lines and maintain a youthful appearance.

5. Leaves You Smelling Fresh and Clean

Let’s not forget the classic reason most guys reach for aftershave: It smells awesome. 

Aftershave gives you that fresh, clean scent that can boost your confidence and make you feel like you’ve just stepped out of the barbershop. But remember, a little goes a long way. You don’t want to overpower the room with your aftershave, especially if you’re planning to wear cologne on top of it.

Modern aftershaves come in various scents, from classic, woodsy aromas to lighter, citrusy notes. Choose a scent that complements your style and personality — and if you prefer to keep things subtle, you can always opt for an unscented aftershave that still provides all the skincare benefits without the fragrance.

How To Use Aftershave the Right Way

Now that you know why aftershave is essential and what it can do, let’s talk about how to use it. Applying aftershave might seem straightforward, but a few tips can help you make the most of it:

Apply to Clean, Dry Skin

After shaving, rinse your face with cool water to remove the remaining cream or gel. Pat your face dry with a clean towel, and don’t rub, as this can cause irritation. Once your skin is dry, it’s time to apply the aftershave.

Use the Right Amount

You don’t need to use a ton of aftershave to reap its benefits. A small amount — about a dime-sized portion — is usually enough to cover your entire face. Pour the aftershave into your palm, rub your hands together, and gently apply it to your face and neck.

Avoid Rubbing Too Hard

Be gentle when applying aftershave. Rubbing too hard can irritate your skin and negate the product's soothing effects. Instead, pat it onto your skin, focusing on areas that feel particularly irritated or prone to redness.

Follow Up With Moisturizer (Optional)

If your skin is particularly dry or sensitive, follow up with a moisturizer after the aftershave. This extra step can help lock in hydration and keep your skin feeling soft and smooth throughout the day.

Aftershave Is Worth It at The Beard Club

If you’ve been skipping aftershave, it’s time to reconsider. 

This small step in your grooming routine can make a big difference in how your skin feels and looks after shaving. From managing irritation to preventing infections and keeping your skin hydrated, aftershave does much more than just smell good.

Investing in a quality aftershave that suits your skin type can elevate your shaving experience and keep your face looking healthy and fresh. Next time you finish shaving, don’t just rinse and go — take an extra few seconds to apply aftershave. You can trust The Beard Club on this one.

Sources:

Folliculitis - Symptoms and Causes | Penn Medicine. 

Sensitive Skin: Symptoms, Common Triggers & How It's Treated | Houston Methodist

Witch Hazel, Not Just for Grandma Anymore! | U.S. Department of Agriculture

Skin Rash: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatments | Cleveland Clinic