Shaving can be a daunting task for many men, but with the right products, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight balm or a heavy-duty cream, we’ve rounded up the best options for men.
Read on to discover the perfect product to help make your shaving routine smoother and easier.
- Top Pick: Davidoff Cool Water Aftershave Balm
- Best for Affordable Sensitive and Oily Skin: Nivea Sensitive Post Shave Balm
- Best for Premium Sensitive and Dry Skin: The Art of Shaving After-Shave Balm
- Best Vegan and Paraben-free and Sensitive Skin: Proraso After Shave Balm
- Best Anti-inflammatory: L’Occitane Cade After Shave Balm
- Best for Razor Bumps: Bevel After Shave Balm for Men
- Best for Oily Skin: Anthony After Shave Balm for Men
Yes, we already have the best aftershave for men article, so why this one? This article focuses on shaving balms, while the other focuses on overall balms, lotions, tonics, and everything. The other difference is the testing we’ve done for this specific category.
We already labeled quite a few balms in the previous article, and you should consider them for that specific needs. On the other hand, this is trying to add value. There are more shaving balm for sensitive skin, so we wanted to provide the full scope of
On the other hand, we’ve already tested Bevel for the best razor bump; we’ve not included the best for sensitive. We tried to diversify but also include some new ones on the list.
The best shaving balms for men: our top 5 picks
Shaving can result in several tiny cuts and exposed skin sections and pores, which can become clogged with bacteria and other debris. To solve this problem, you can use an aftershave. If you want to know which aftershave to buy, read ahead since we compiled our top recommendations.
Here are our top recommendations. Make sure it is appropriate for the skin concern you are trying to target before picking one.
Davidoff Cool Water Aftershave Balm
After you shave, Davidoff Cool Water Aftershave Balm has that seawater, aquatic vibe. It has a fresh, aromatic smell that starts with waves of lavender or peppermint. After that, you’ll feel sandalwood, geranium, and oakmoss. All of Davidoff is dedicated to getting the best ingredients from all over the world. That is why its fragrances carry on the brand’s unique aura.
In terms of ingredients, it has a lot of shea butter. This ingredient helps your body make more collagen and new cells, making you look younger. It also soothes itchy skin, helps fight inflammation, and keeps your skin from drying out while you shave. Shea butter can also be.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Has fragrance
- Has shea butter
- Has moisturizing benefits
- Suitable for all types of skin
Nivea Sensitive Post Shave Balm
This balm will be a welcome addition if you are new to using after-shave products. This shave balm is great for sensitive skin since it does not contain irritants like lemon oil and menthol. These ingredients are known for triggering redness and breakouts. Additionally, it is free from alcohol and fragrance. That is why dermatologists highly recommend it.
Its components make it ideal for those with sensitive skin. Among its ingredients are chamomile, vitamin E, and witch hazel extracts, which are known for reducing irritation and redness.
Pros
- Affordable
- Soothing effect
- Moisturizing properties
- Has natural ingredients like chamomile-extract
The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Aftershave Balm
The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Aftershave Balm is an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin. Clinically tested for sensitive skin, this balm contains natural ingredients such as sandalwood and sandalwood oil to nourish, replenish, and revitalize dry skin.
It’s also lightweight and non-greasy, so it won’t leave your skin feeling heavy or oily. Its moisturizing effects help to reduce irritation and redness after shaving, making it the perfect post-shave product for those with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Provides serious moisture
- Replenishes moisture with shea butter and glycerin
- Dermatologist tested
- Non-Comedogenic
- Moisturizes away dry facial skin after shaving
Proraso After Shave Balm
Proraso After Shave Balm is the perfect solution for those with sensitive skin. It combines the soothing effects of a balm with the protective and moisturizing qualities of cream, providing immediate relief after shaving. It is formulated without alcohol and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and soothed. Its new bottle is a great addition to any shaving routine. Proraso also offers an After Shave Balm with Aloe and Vitamin E and an Anti-Irritation formula with Green Tea & Oats for extra protection. It can be found at many retailers, including Target, where you can find great low prices on all your post-shave care needs.
Pros
- No parabens
- Great fragrance
- Has natural ingredients
- Does not have synthetic dyes
- Cruelty-free; not tested on animals
L’Occitane Cade After Shave Balm
If you have dry skin, the L’Occitane Cade After Shave Balm is your best bet. The incredibly soothing balm protects your skin against tightness, razor burn, and redness. It contains shea butter, making it have a rich, creamy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin.
It contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial essential oils, including rosemary and birchwood sap, which will fight bacteria and calm your skin. It is also enhanced with cade wood essential oil. Aside from having a woody fragrance, oil can cure skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis.
Pros
- Soothes skin
- Great for dry skin
- Has antiseptic oils
- With moisturizing capabilities
- Contains anti-inflammatory oils
Bevel After Shave Balm for Men
If you are prone to ingrown hairs, you should use a post-shave product that unclogs pores. This shave balm is a great choice since it contains Alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids. These acids help exfoliate and keep skin in the balance after each shave. It also contains tea tree oil and shea butter, which kill microorganisms and nourish them.
It also has witch hazel and tea tree oil, frequently used as natural therapies to soothe skin irritation brought on by ingrown hairs. These elements work best for treating skin prone to irritation, especially when coupled with lactic and salicylic acids, which are exfoliants.
Bevel is a well-known manufacturer of men’s hygiene goods, so it shouldn’t be surprising that they have produced an aftershave that can compete with the best.
Pros
- Free of artificial dyes
- No sulfates and parabens
- Does not contain additives
- With AHA and BHA for exfoliation
Anthony After Shave Balm for Men
Anthony After-Shave Balm is a great option for men looking to soothe and calm skin irritation caused by razor burn.
Formulated with natural botanical oils, such as rosemary, corn mint, eucalyptus, and vitamins A, C, and E, this cooling lightweight formula absorbs immediately and reduces redness while restoring skin’s moisture.
The balm also helps to reduce redness and irritation caused by razor burn while also restoring skin moisture. This product is enriched with essential oils that rejuvenate the face, leaving it feeling cool and relaxed.
The balm is also enriched with essential oils that help to rejuvenate faces. Non-greasy and replenishing, this moisturizer is a great choice for men looking for a cool and refreshing experience after shaving.
Pros
- Vitamins A,C,E
- Non-greasy
- Eucalyptus for the best cool feeling
- Cruelty-free; not tested on animals
What is an aftershave balm for?
As the name implies, aftershave is used on the face to soothe the skin after a shave. Alcohols like isopropyl and ethyl are common in aftershave lotions; these substances disinfect the skin and remove any lingering bacteria or pollutants.
Aftershave balm targets skin inflammation, irritation, and wounds while calming and soothing the skin. Aftershave balms specifically hydrate the skin, assisting you in avoiding the stinging sensation that occasionally occurs after shaving with an aftershave lotion.
Disadvantages of using an aftershave balm
Using an aftershave balm may not be the best choice for men with sensitive skin, as it can be drying and irritating. It also may not be as effective at moisturizing as a proper moisturizer cream, and so could lead to skin dryness and discomfort.
Furthermore, some aftershave balms contain harmful ingredients such as alcohol and chemicals that can cause skin irritation. As such, it is important to do research and find a suitable product that works for you, or opt for a natural aftershave balm instead to avoid these potential issues.
What to Consider When Shopping for a Shaving Balm
When shopping for a shaving balm, there are several factors to consider.
Ingredients
When shopping for a shaving balm, you should pay close attention to the ingredients. Look for balms that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, tea tree oil, calendula, witch hazel, lavender, jojoba oil, rose oil distillate, and various vitamins.
Additionally, you should look for shaving balms with nourishing and hydrating bases like Shea butter. This will help ensure that your skin is protected during the shave and left feeling soft and hydrated afterward.
Scent
When it comes to scent, it’s important to consider what type of smell you prefer. Aftershave balms come in various scents, ranging from light and refreshing citrus to spicy and woody. If you want a more natural scent, look for an aftershave balm with essential oils like lavender, tea tree oil, or bergamot.
If you prefer a stronger scent, opt for an aftershave balm with synthetic fragrances like sandalwood or musk. It’s important to note that some fragrances may not be compatible with your skin type, so read the label before making a purchase. Ultimately, the scent should be subtle enough that it doesn’t overpower your existing cologne or body spray.
Skin Type Compatibility
Understanding your skin type is an important part of choosing the right aftershave balm. Different skin types require different aftershave care.
For dry skin, it is important to look for an aftershave balm that contains moisturizing ingredients such as organic coconut oil, jojoba, and neem seed oil. Oily skin will require a lighter balm with fewer oils.
Whatever your skin type, it is important to read the ingredients on any product before purchasing and find one that is suitable for your unique needs.
Price
While some higher-end balms may cost more, there are plenty of quality options that are also affordable. The Art of Shaving Balm is slightly less expensive than the L’Occitane one and is a favorite among men who want a luxurious shaving experience. No matter your budget, there’s sure to be a shaving balm that fits your needs.
How to properly apply aftershave
Now that you have chosen your aftershave, the next step is applying it properly. Here are some steps to ensure you are properly applying your aftershave. Always remember that when applying numerous products, start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up to the thickest.
- Keep the shaved area moist by rinsing it with warm water.
- Using a cotton round soaked in a low- or no-alcohol toner or witch hazel, clean the shaved area.
- Rinse with lukewarm water while continuing to keep the area wet.
- Put a dime-sized amount of aftershave on your palm.
- Rub your palms together.
- Apply the aftershave by massaging it upward into damp skin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when shopping for a shaving balm, there are several factors to consider. You should consider the ingredients, scent, skin type compatibility, consistency, and price. Proraso After Shave Lotion is a great option for those looking for an affordable and dependable balm.
It contains natural ingredients that help to soothe the skin and provide a pleasant aroma. Blu Atlas is another top pick known for its high-quality products and fragrant scents. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to apply aftershave?
While it may be helpful, it is not necessary. Hence, you are not at all required to apply aftershave. Instead, you can rinse your face after shaving to close your pores and consider a natural oil like coconut or jojoba.
This will hydrate and protect your skin from irritation. You can avoid infection or other discomforts by creating a barrier-like moisturizing layer over your skin.
Should I do aftershave daily?
Applying aftershave daily (after shaving) is advised as it aids skin restoration and prevents irritation.
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links.
Jay Kang
Just because i'm asian does not mean I don't need shaving. I always wanted to grow a beard when I was young, now I need to shave because hair growth for me is a problem. I'm going through what every man will and has gone through before.
