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Applying Aftershave and What's the Deal With Cologne, Lotion and Balm?

The aptly named Aftershave, is usually applied to the facial skin after shaving – once you’re finished with the razor, wiped away all the cream, and gone over your face with a cold washcloth. But what is it really for?

Cold water will calm down the skin from just being gone over with a razor, and this will have more of the same effect on the skin. In the way that good preparation involves opening the pores, a good post-treatment will close them again.

Most people will just dab it on their hands and splash or rub it into their face. This is what I do and I have never had any problems. Depending on your hands, you might need to use cotton balls to apply it. This way, the oil and bacteria from your hands does not get smeared all over your face. I think this is a bit extreme, but if you have acne problems for example, it might be worth trying. In either case, you should have a bottle of it in your bathroom.

Main Benefits to Using Aftershave

Balance th pH Levels of the Skin

Healthy skin is slightly acidic and with all the face washes, creams, oils, etc used during shaving, it is important to ensure that the pH levels of the face are returned to normal – this is known as an ‘astringent’. Alcohol free varieties exist, using other astringents such as Witch Hazel.

Disinfects the Skin

In case of any lurking bacteria, the disinfecting property is excellent for reducing the risk of any nicks or cuts you may have, or even reducing the risk of acne.

Closes the Pores

As mentioned above, the pores that were opened in the preparation process now need to be closed. The alcohol ingredient is especially effective for this.

Moisturises

It will also moisturise the skin which is recommended. For people with especially dry skin they should find an added moisturiser or use one separately beforehand. They should also go for the alcohol-free variety. Look for moisturising ingredients like aloe or seaweed extracts.

Nice Smell

Hopefully you have chosen one with a nice aroma – many of the designer varieties of colognes can be used for this as well as the other benefits listed here. Check the packaging if you’re looking for a cologne, otherwise head for the aftershave. Choose the right aroma that suits you. If you get the right one you will turn heads as you walk on by.

Restore the Face's Natural Oils

The shaving process tends to rob the face of its natural oils, leaving you with stiff rigid feeling skin. To avoid that, make sure you follow up appropriately and restore the oils back to your skin.

Where Can I Buy Aftershave?

What a great question! I have trawled the internet looking for the best places to buy from and I have found a great place to buy aftershaves (as well as many other shaving and grooming products). It's called the Grooming Lounge (follow the link to the site).

You'll find plenty there, with free delivery on orders over $100, you can grab a few extras while you're there.