PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Perfume and Body Fragrances
How to Use Aftershave Download Article Co-authored by Woody Lovell
Last Updated: February 24, 2025 References
Download Article
Choosing an Aftershave
|
Applying Aftershave
|
Video
|
Tips
|
Warnings
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Woody Lovell. Woody Lovell is the Founder of The Barbershop Club, a gentleman's barbershop-as-social club rooted in 1990's traditional barbering based in the Hotel Normandie in Los Angeles, California. He is also the Founder of his own line of quality grooming products. He has over 20 years of experience in the male grooming industry and has consulted clients including professional athletes, musicians, and A-list actors throughout the Los Angeles area. This article has been viewed 91,021 times.
Aftershave is an important step in your shaving routine to ensure you have healthy, moisturized skin. While aftershave is known for giving off a great fragrance, it also contains ingredients that help soothe and repair irritated skin while sterilizing any cuts or scrapes you might get while shaving. When picking out an aftershave, aim for an alcohol-free one that will cater to your skin type, and massage it gently into your skin when you go to apply it.
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 2:
Choosing an Aftershave
Download Article
1 Look for natural ingredients such as witch hazel. Witch hazel is a natural astringent that also soothes and cleans your skin, making it a top-notch ingredient to look for in aftershaves. Other natural ingredients to look for are tea tree oil, aloe vera, chamomile, and lavender.[1]XResearch source
Natural ingredients are especially good to include in your aftershave if you have sensitive skin.[2]XResearch source
2 Avoid aftershaves containing alcohol. Alcohol has been a prominent ingredient in aftershaves for a long time, but it tends to dry out your skin. To avoid dry, flaky, irritated skin, skip the aftershaves containing alcohol and aim for more natural ingredients. Advertisement
3 Select a balm if you have dry skin or live in a colder climate. Aftershave balms tend to be thick in consistency and help to lock in moisture. If you live in a cold or dry climate, or you just tend to have dry skin, balms will help moisturize your face.[3]XResearch source
Because balms are so much heavier and more oily than other types of aftershave, stay away from balms if you have oily skin.
Don’t use a balm if you’re going to be sweating a lot. The thickness of the balm when applied to your face prevents sweat from getting through.
4 Pick a splash if you have oily skin. Splashes are more watery, which is good if you have oily skin — you don’t want a thick aftershave that will clog up your pores. Splashes usually have a toner or astringent which helps get rid of dirt. If you live in a warmer climate and have oily skin, splashes are your best bet.[4]XResearch source
Aftershave lotions should also work well on oily skin, as they’re lighter and contain more water than other options.
5 Opt for a gel if you typically have post-shave burns. If your skin tends to get irritated by razor burn, try a gel. These soak into your skin very quickly, making them a good choice if you’re going to be sweating or live somewhere humid. Gels are light and a great moisturizing option.[5]XResearch source
Gels are most appropriate for normal to oily skin.
6 Decide on a tonic if you tend to get cuts when you shave. If you find your face getting nicked by your razor, find a good tonic aftershave. These have antiseptics in them that help keep your cuts clean and uninfected. However, those antiseptics can dry out your skin if they contain alcohol, so look for natural ones if you have dry or sensitive skin.[6]XResearch source
Apply a moisturizer that’s safe for your face after applying a tonic aftershave to prevent dryness.
7 Try different aftershaves to find your favorite if you have normal skin. If you were graced with perfectly normal skin, then you’re able to try out whichever aftershave you want. While splashes tend to be the most recommended for normal skin, choosing a gel, lotion, or balm is also alright. It’s smart to still avoid aftershaves containing alcohol, and natural ingredients such as witch hazel or tea tree oil will always be best.[7]XResearch source
Advertisement Part 2 Part 2 of 2:
Applying Aftershave
Download Article
1 Rinse your face with cold water post-shave to close your pores. Washing your face off with plain, cold water will not only get rid of any excess shaving cream or hair, but it will also close off your pores so that dirt is less likely to clog them. After you’ve splashed your face with cold water, dry your face off gently with a towel — it doesn’t need to be completely dry, but it shouldn’t be dripping.[8]XResearch source
2 Pour a couple drops of aftershave onto your palm and rub your hands together. Pour or squeeze just 1 or 2 drops of aftershave into the palm of your hand, and rub both of your hands together.[9]XResearch source
Getting your hands a little bit damp beforehand can make application easier.
3 Massage the aftershave gently into your face. Use your hands to apply the aftershave to your face, massaging downwards as opposed to upwards. Make sure the aftershave is applied evenly and rub it in gently until your skin absorbs it.
If your skin still feels dry after you’ve applied the couple of drops of aftershave, massage a smaller amount than you first applied onto your face and see if that helps.
4 Apply enough aftershave to treat your face. You don’t need to overdo it by lathering your face up with a ton of aftershave — this is too much for your skin to absorb and won’t help. Apply enough aftershave to gently moisturize and treat your skin. If you’re unsure of how much this should be, start with a small amount — you can always add more.[10]XResearch source
5 Leave the aftershave to absorb into your face. Aftershaves are designed to moisturize and soak into your skin, so after you massage it into your face, you're done! Unless your aftershave specifically tells you to wash it off, you don't need to. Most aftershaves you simply leave on your face.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
You could use an alum block instead of aftershave. Instead of splashing aftershave on your skin, you'd just rub the alum block over your face where you just shaved to soothe and disinfect it.[11]X Expert Source Woody LovellProfessional BarberExpert InterviewThanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 4
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
Warnings
Don't use aftershave if you have incredibly sensitive skin or may be allergic to ingredients it contains such as witch hazel or tea tree oil. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How toApply Aftershave SplashHow toMake AftershaveHow toGet a Close ShaveHow toHave a Baby Soft FaceHow toCare for Your Face (Males)How to Have Perfect Skin Using the Right ProductsHow toCare for Your Skin As a GuyHow toUse an Alum BlockThe Most Effective Ways to Prevent Razor Bumps & BurnsHow toPrevent Skin Irritation After ShavingHow toEstablish an Effective Skincare RoutineHow toTreat Razor Nicks and CutsHow toDry ShaveHow toMoisturize Your Skin Advertisement
↑ Woody Lovell. Professional Barber. Expert Interview
About This Article
Co-authored by: Woody Lovell Professional Barber This article was co-authored by Woody Lovell. Woody Lovell is the Founder of The Barbershop Club, a gentleman's barbershop-as-social club rooted in 1990's traditional barbering based in the Hotel Normandie in Los Angeles, California. He is also the Founder of his own line of quality grooming products. He has over 20 years of experience in the male grooming industry and has consulted clients including professional athletes, musicians, and A-list actors throughout the Los Angeles area. This article has been viewed 91,021 times. 6 votes - 83% Co-authors: 7Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 91,021 Categories: Perfume and Body FragrancesArticle SummaryX
To use aftershave, start by rinsing your face with cold water once you’re done shaving to close your pores. Next, rub a few drops of aftershave in between your palms and gently massage it into the areas where you shaved. Since most aftershaves are designed to soak in and moisturize your skin, leave your aftershave on your face when you’re done! Try to avoid aftershaves that contain alcohol, as these can actually dry out your skin over time. Keep reading for tips on how to choose the right aftershave for you!Did this summary help you?YesNo
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 91,021 times.
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Woody Lovell Professional Barber Co-authors: 7Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 91,02183% of readers found this article helpful. 6 votes - 83% Click a star to add your vote
Quizzes & Games
What Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizWhat Skincare Products Should I Use QuizTake QuizWhat Perfume Note Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizWhat’s The Perfect Hair Care Routine For MeTake QuizMakeup Quiz: Discover The Perfect Stye For YouTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toApply Aftershave SplashHow toMake AftershaveHow toGet a Close ShaveHow toHave a Baby Soft Face
Featured Articles
What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)
Trending Articles
How Many People Had a Crush on You In 2025?What Song Was #1 On My Birthday?Who Is Secretly Crushing On Me Right Now QuizDiscover the Secret Meaning of Your First NameAnswer These Questions, And We'll Judge You10+ Scary Phone Numbers to Call
Featured Articles
What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasHow toExercise Your BrainHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithWhat Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?
Featured Articles
How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Your 2026 Vision: What Does Next Year Hold?Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Type A B C D Personality Test
Watch Articles
How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen Sink (& Keep It Clean)How to Curl Your Hair: 8 Easy & Quick WaysHow toThicken Sauce with FlourHow to Brighten Up White Shirts and Other GarmentsHow to Cook White Rice without a Rice CookerHow to Clean Out the Inside of a Glass Bottle (With or Without a Brush)
Trending Articles
How Vanilla Am I QuizAttractiveness Score QuizHow toKissWhat Are My Soulmate's Initials QuizHow toLose Belly Fat in 2 WeeksWho's My KPop Lookalike Quiz
Quizzes & Games
Do I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizWhat Is My Makeup Type QuizTake QuizWhat Type of Hands Do I Have QuizTake QuizHow Old Do People Think I Look QuizTake QuizWhat Men's Haircut Should I Get QuizTake QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Perfume and Body Fragrances
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Co-authored by Woody Lovell 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Woody Lovell Professional Barber This article was co-authored by Woody Lovell. Woody Lovell is the Founder of The Barbershop Club, a gentleman's barbershop-as-social club rooted in 1990's traditional barbering based in the Hotel Normandie in Los Angeles, California. He is also the Founder of his own line of quality grooming products. He has over 20 years of experience in the male grooming industry and has consulted clients including professional athletes, musicians, and A-list actors throughout the Los Angeles area. This article has been viewed 91,021 times. 6 votes - 83% Co-authors: 7 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 91,021 Categories: Perfume and Body Fragrances Article SummaryX
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
720 
1 Look for natural ingredients such as witch hazel. Witch hazel is a natural astringent that also soothes and cleans your skin, making it a top-notch ingredient to look for in aftershaves. Other natural ingredients to look for are tea tree oil, aloe vera, chamomile, and lavender.[1] 
2 Avoid aftershaves containing alcohol. Alcohol has been a prominent ingredient in aftershaves for a long time, but it tends to dry out your skin. To avoid dry, flaky, irritated skin, skip the aftershaves containing alcohol and aim for more natural ingredients. Advertisement 
3 Select a balm if you have dry skin or live in a colder climate. Aftershave balms tend to be thick in consistency and help to lock in moisture. If you live in a cold or dry climate, or you just tend to have dry skin, balms will help moisturize your face.[3] 
4 Pick a splash if you have oily skin. Splashes are more watery, which is good if you have oily skin — you don’t want a thick aftershave that will clog up your pores. Splashes usually have a toner or astringent which helps get rid of dirt. If you live in a warmer climate and have oily skin, splashes are your best bet.[4] 
5 Opt for a gel if you typically have post-shave burns. If your skin tends to get irritated by razor burn, try a gel. These soak into your skin very quickly, making them a good choice if you’re going to be sweating or live somewhere humid. Gels are light and a great moisturizing option.[5] 
6 Decide on a tonic if you tend to get cuts when you shave. If you find your face getting nicked by your razor, find a good tonic aftershave. These have antiseptics in them that help keep your cuts clean and uninfected. However, those antiseptics can dry out your skin if they contain alcohol, so look for natural ones if you have dry or sensitive skin.[6] 
7 Try different aftershaves to find your favorite if you have normal skin. If you were graced with perfectly normal skin, then you’re able to try out whichever aftershave you want. While splashes tend to be the most recommended for normal skin, choosing a gel, lotion, or balm is also alright. It’s smart to still avoid aftershaves containing alcohol, and natural ingredients such as witch hazel or tea tree oil will always be best.[7] Advertisement 
1 Rinse your face with cold water post-shave to close your pores. Washing your face off with plain, cold water will not only get rid of any excess shaving cream or hair, but it will also close off your pores so that dirt is less likely to clog them. After you’ve splashed your face with cold water, dry your face off gently with a towel — it doesn’t need to be completely dry, but it shouldn’t be dripping.[8] 
2 Pour a couple drops of aftershave onto your palm and rub your hands together. Pour or squeeze just 1 or 2 drops of aftershave into the palm of your hand, and rub both of your hands together.[9] 
3 Massage the aftershave gently into your face. Use your hands to apply the aftershave to your face, massaging downwards as opposed to upwards. Make sure the aftershave is applied evenly and rub it in gently until your skin absorbs it. 
4 Apply enough aftershave to treat your face. You don’t need to overdo it by lathering your face up with a ton of aftershave — this is too much for your skin to absorb and won’t help. Apply enough aftershave to gently moisturize and treat your skin. If you’re unsure of how much this should be, start with a small amount — you can always add more.[10] 
5 Leave the aftershave to absorb into your face. Aftershaves are designed to moisturize and soak into your skin, so after you massage it into your face, you're done! Unless your aftershave specifically tells you to wash it off, you don't need to. Most aftershaves you simply leave on your face. Advertisement