Should Use Aftershave Balm or Lotion?

by Jay Kang | Updated on April 6th, 2023
cosmetics for men in bottle on gray background top view.

Aftershave is an essential part of any man’s grooming routine. But if you’re unsure whether to use aftershave balm or lotion, don’t worry – we have all the answers here.


In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between aftershave balms and lotions so that you can make an informed decision about which is best for your skin type.

Introduction: Should You Use Aftershave Balm or Lotion?

Shaving is an important part of a man’s grooming routine but can also cause irritation, redness, and dryness. Many men turn to aftershave to help soothe skin after a shave and prevent these issues.

Aftershave is a liquid or cream product applied to the face after shaving. It can help to hydrate the skin, reduce razor burn, and prevent infection.

But with so many different types of aftershave available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.

Should you use aftershave balm or lotion? This article will discuss the differences between balms and lotions, explore the factors to consider when selecting an aftershave, and discuss the different types of aftershaves available.

What is Aftershave, and What Does it Do?

Aftershave is a product used after shaving to soothe, moisturize and protect the skin. It helps reduce inflammation and the risk of infection and keeps the skin hydrated.

Aftershaves come in various forms, such as lotions, balms, splashes, and gels.

Depending on the type, they may contain alcohol or other ingredients such as witch hazel or aloe vera. Generally speaking, lotions are better suited for drier skin types, while balms are better suited for more sensitive skin types.

What is Aftershave Balm?

An aftershave balm is a product with a lotion-like consistency that soothes the skin after shaving, just like aftershave lotion. It is typically much milder in scent than lotion and contains less or no alcohol.

The Benefits of Using Aftershave Balm

Aftershave balms offer several benefits for those who shave regularly. For starters, balms are generally much milder in scent than lotions, making them more suitable for sensitive skin.

Balms are also typically alcohol-free and provide a thicker, more hydrating layer of moisture to the skin than lotions. This thicker layer of hydration is great for those who tend to find their skin drying out after shaving.

Aftershave balms also do not need to be wiped off after application, meaning you can get the most out of the product without worrying about it staining your clothes or towels.

Finally, aftershave balms are often recommended for winter use since they provide a thicker layer of moisture that can help keep skin hydrated and healthy in cold weather.

What is Aftershave Lotion?

Aftershave lotion is used to soothe and moisturize the skin after shaving. It usually contains alcohol, which helps to cleanse and disinfect the skin.

The Benefits of Using Aftershave Lotion

Aftershave lotion is a great choice if you have normal to oily skin that needs additional hydration after shaving. It is a light, water-based product that helps to soothe and protect the skin from irritation. It contains alcohol, which can help to disinfect the skin after shaving and reduce inflammation.

Aftershave lotion also helps to reduce razor burn and redness. It can also help to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs by keeping the skin hydrated, making it easier for hairs to grow straight out of the follicle.

Some aftershave lotions also contain natural ingredients that can help nourish the skin and provide additional hydration.

Comparing Aftershave Balms and Lotions

When choosing an aftershave, it’s important to understand the differences between a balm and a lotion. Both are designed to help soothe and protect skin after shaving, but there are some key differences between the two.

Aftershave balms are generally milder and less scented than lotions. They’re also alcohol-free and offer more hydration, making them a great choice for dry or sensitive skin.

On the other hand, aftershave lotions contain more alcohol and have a stronger scent, which can be too harsh for some.

When selecting an aftershave, it’s important to consider your skin type and the climate you live in. If you have dry or sensitive skin or live in a cold climate, an aftershave balm may be the best choice.

However, an aftershave lotion might be better suited if you have normal or oily skin or live in a hot climate.

It’s also important to consider the ingredients used in the product. Aftershaves with natural ingredients such as aloe vera and chamomile can benefit those with sensitive skin.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Aftershave

When choosing an aftershave, there are a few factors to consider. The first is the type of product you are looking for.

Do you prefer a lotion or a balm? Both have benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to think about how you want your skin to feel after shaving.

Next, you should consider the scent of the product. While many unscented aftershaves are available, some people prefer more fragrant options. Make sure to choose one that you’ll enjoy wearing.

Finally, think about your skin type. If you tend to find that your skin gets easily irritated after shaving, then an Aftershave Lotion might be the better option. Lotions tend to be more alcohol-based and can help to soothe irritated skin.

The Different Types of Aftershaves Available

When it comes to selecting an aftershave, there are several different types available. The most common are Lotions and Balms, although there are also Gels, Splashes, and Creams.

Lotions are usually alcohol-based and provide a cooling sensation when applied to the skin. Balms are creamy and moisturizing and have a milder scent than Lotions.

Gels provide a lightweight, non-greasy finish when applied, while Splashes provide a refreshing sensation and are often alcohol-free. Finally, Creams offer a thick, hydrating formula that helps to nourish and protect the skin.

No matter what type of aftershave you choose, selecting one specifically suited to your skin type is important.

Some aftershaves contain fragrances or other ingredients that can cause irritation or dryness, so always read the label carefully before making your purchase.

Additionally, if your skin is prone to drying out after shaving, you may consider using an Aftershave Balm instead of a Lotion.

How to Select the Right Aftershave for Your Skin Type

When selecting the right aftershave for your skin type, there are a few things to consider.

First and foremost, you want to make sure you choose an aftershave product specifically designed for your skin type. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to opt for an aftershave balm, which is usually alcohol-free and very mild in scent.

If your skin tends to be oily or more prone to breakouts, an aftershave lotion may be a better choice, as it is often alcohol-based and helps reduce oiliness without drying out the skin.

The primary difference between aftershave balm and lotion lies in their consistency. An aftershave balm is generally much thicker and richer than lotion, making it a better choice for those needing extra moisture and relief after shaving.

An aftershave balm is also much milder in scent than lotion, often containing no alcohol. Additionally, an aftershave balm is a better choice for those who suffer from razor bumps since it contains less glycerin than lotion, which can worsen skin conditions.

For those looking to get the full benefits of an aftershave product, it’s best to choose a balm or cream over a lotion.

You should also consider the ingredients in the product, as some aftershaves contain fragrances or other ingredients that could potentially irritate your skin.

Finally, read customer reviews before making a purchase. If we do reviews on lotions and balms, you can read our reviews, as these can provide helpful insight into how the product has worked for other people with similar skin types.

What Products Can I Use Instead of Aftershave?

Although aftershave balm is a great way to keep skin hydrated after shaving, other products can provide similar benefits.

For example, shaving oil and moisturizers can be applied to the skin before shaving, helping reduce irritation and razor burn.

After shaving, aloe vera gel or a light moisturizer with natural ingredients can be used for added hydration.

Additionally, products such as hyaluronic acid serum can be applied for extra nourishment and protection against environmental damage.

Regardless of which product you choose, it is important to use one specifically formulated for sensitive skin free of harsh chemicals.

Conclusion: Is It Better to Use a Balm or a Lotion?

In conclusion, the choice between using an aftershave balm or a lotion comes down to personal preference and your skin’s individual needs.

If you tend to have dry skin, a balm is likely the better option, as they are typically alcohol-free and very hydrating. On the other hand, if your skin tends to become oily after shaving, then a lotion may be more suitable.

Ultimately, choosing an aftershave that works for you and your skin type is important. There are plenty of products on the market that can help to soothe and moisturize the skin after shaving, from traditional balms and lotions to specialty products like gels and sprays.

Whatever you decide to use, be sure to look for gentle and nourishing ingredients, such as aloe vera, vitamin E, and natural oils. You can keep your skin looking and feeling its best with the right aftershave.

Last update on 2024-04-24 / 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.

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