Irritated skin got you down? Aftershave skincare is crucial to daily comfort. Finding the right product can provide much-needed benefits. For instance, a good aftershave can disinfect the skin, promote faster healing, soothe redness, puffiness and irritation, and reduce itchiness. So, if you’re looking for the most-recommended product on the market, look no further! We’ve consulted the experts to provide you with a list of the top five best aftershaves for men.
Ever wondered what the difference is between aftershave and cologne? Here’s the quick and (not-so) dirty: Aftershave has a light, short-lasting scent, but its main purpose is to treat the skin, which can become dry and irritated after shaving. Cologne is purely fragrance, meant to be applied to the wrists and neck, and not to freshly shaved skin. Maybe that will change, though — researchers in Germany have developed a new, anti-inflammatory fragrance to aid extremely dry skin. In the meantime, aftershave is your best bet to benefit that newly smooth complexion.
Not only is aftershave essential to skin comfort, but you (and those around you) will also enjoy the appealing fragrance of a well-chosen aftershave. It can take the place of cologne, pulling double duty by combining fragrance with function. And make no mistake, how you smell is important. It can make or break that first date or long-awaited job interview. So don’t neglect this important part of every good morning routine.
Ready to find the right aftershave for you? Below is our list of the five best aftershaves for men to try, according to 10 experts. Our list is based on the most recommended products across their reviews. You’ll be feeling fine and smelling divine in no time!
The List: Best Aftershaves for Men, According to Experts
1. Blu Atlas Aftershave
Overwhelmingly topping the list across half of our sources, Blu Atlas Aftershave is touted as a sensitive, hydrating balm with an attractive scent. Win-win!
Forbes enthuses, “Aftershave has a reputation for burning the heck out of your skin when you put it on. But we’re no longer dealing with your dad’s aftershave, which was basically just old rubbing alcohol. No, no, we now have Blu Atlas Aftershave, which uses all-natural ingredients to reduce irritation and puffiness while hydrating your skin as well.”
“With woodsy and zesty citrus notes, and a herbaceous heart of lavender sprigs, clary sage and patchouli, this fragrance will bring out your adventurous side. This no-nonsense aftershave is all-natural, vegan friendly and devoid of sulfates and parabens. It is the ideal scent for any guy,” touts Observer.
“This natural, all-time favorite contains soothing aloe vera and hydrating shea butter. As well, there’s a splash of rose flower water which quickly heals cuts and scrapes from shaving,” says San Diego Magazine.
2. Proraso After Shave Lotion
A close runner-up providing soothing, cruelty-free, non-toxic relief, Proraso is another solid option.
Men’s Journal writes, “Infused with eucalyptus oil and menthol, this aftershave product provides men with relief that does not sting. Perfect for any man who typically experiences skin inflammation or redness, Proraso’s aftershave effectively cools and calms your skin.”
“Proraso has created a lotion that cools after shaving and tones the skin after use,” notes Observer.
The best part? It’s also a good bang for your buck. “If you’re looking for a luxury brand at a bargain price, Proraso is the way to go. Using quality ingredients, 98% of which are from natural origin and none coming from or harming animals in any way, this family-owned Italian brand is made accessible to the masses. We highly recommend you take advantage of that generosity,” suggests Byrdie.
3. Nivea Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm
Another option that’s easy on the wallet, Nivea Men offers easy entry into the world of aftershave.
Best Products writes, “If you’re new to aftershaves, you’re probably not looking to spend a fortune right out of the gate, nor commit to some massive bottle that will conquer your countertop. In that case, the answer is this set from Nivea Men.”
According to Observer, “This aftershave balm is gentle on the skin, and is enriched with vitamin E, chamomile and witch hazel extract. In addition, this formula contains no alcohol, making it safe for sensitive skin.”
“In recent years, the Nivea Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm has become a best-seller. Because of its gentle, lightweight formula, which offers supreme suppleness, the Sensitive Post Shave Balm also took off as an effective substitute for makeup primer. For guys, though, it remains a staple skincare product that offers clear, glowy post-shave skin. This aftershave fights the five most common symptoms of shave irritation: itchiness, tightness, dryness, burning, and micro-cuts. Promoting fast recovery and easing any discomfort, Nivea has made sure you don’t have to face the day with sore skin — or dread the next time you shave,” says The Salt Lake Tribune.
4. Le Labo After Shave Balm
Looking for a truly captivating scent? Le Labo may be your pick!
GQ raves, “Leave it to Le Labo to deliver a refreshing post shave, with notes of bergamot, lavender, violet, and tonka. More importantly, though, it utilizes extracts and oils of avocado, sunflower, and rosemary to deliver a fast, fortifying recovery to your skin.”
And The Strategist agrees, “In addition to ultra-hydrating avocado oil, squalane, and niacinamide, it has the slightly floral scent of bergamot. ‘The smell reminds me of the south of Italy. It’s really soothing, doesn’t dry you out, and there’s no waxy residue to it.’”
5. Marlowe Post Shave Lotion
Want to feel uniquely smooth?
Perhaps a baby’s butt is not exactly what you had in mind, but FashionBeans thinks it’s a win: “Smooth as a cherub’s butt and free from animal cruelty, Marlowe’s is a luscious lotion with a moreish passionfruit punch. Its active willow bark and green tea extract ingredients are perfect for moisturizing dry skin, and the best thing is that a little goes a long way.”
And you can’t go wrong with a rec from GQ, who writes, “Lotions are lighter than balms, though their defensiveness is no less effective. Marlowe’s post-shave lotion utilizes willow bark and algae extract to soothe irritation, plus passionflower and green tea extract to help repair skin and boost defense against toxins.”
With so many outstanding options to choose from, you’ll be feeling smooth, suave and fragrant in no time. Have any other fab recommendations? Let us know in the comments below!
You might also be interested in:
- Best Face Moisturizers
- Best Cologne For Men
- Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices
- Best Face Serum In 2023
- Best Oils For Hair Growth 2023
Sources:
- Forbes
- Observer
- San Diego Magazine
- Men’s Journal
- Byrdie
- Best Products
- The Salt Lake Tribune
- GQ
- The Strategist
- FashionBeans
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This post may contain affiliate links.
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