Aftershave is a product applied to the skin after shaving. It is designed to reduce the irritation, razor burn, and bumps caused by shaving. Aftershave can perform a variety of functions, including:
- Clearing pores: Aftershave can clear your pores of any bacteria that may have been present on your skin post-shave.
- Sealing pores: Aftershave can seal up your pores to prevent the entry of any additional dirt or bacteria.
- Hydrating skin: Aftershave can help hydrate the skin post-shave.
- Providing scent: Scented varieties of aftershave can provide you with a masculine musk following your morning shave, or just before you head out for the evening.
Aftershave often contains an antiseptic agent such as alcohol, stearate citrate, or witch hazel to prevent infection of cuts, as well as to act as an astringent to reduce skin irritation. Menthol is used in some varieties as well to numb irritated skin. Aftershave balms are frequently recommended for winter use as they tend to be alcohol-free and lotion-like, moisturizing the skin. Some aftershaves use fragrance or essential oil to enhance scent.
In summary, the purpose of aftershave is to soothe the skin post-shave, clear and seal pores, hydrate the skin, and provide a pleasant scent.
