Aftershave vs toner: Which should you use?

What is the difference?

The word aftershave covers both scented splashes and soothing skin products, so the name is doing less work than it sounds. A soothing aftershave formulated for shaving irritation is a different choice from an alcohol based fragrance splash.34

Which should you choose?

If your main aim is comfort after shaving, choose a gentle moisturizer or a soothing aftershave designed to reduce irritation and razor bumps. For dry or sensitive skin, avoid alcohol based aftershaves and fragranced products. Pick by your skin's needs rather than whether the packaging is marketed to men or women.14

Consider toner if you want an additional hydrating step, or a formula aimed at clogged pores and uneven texture. Toner is an extra step after cleansing, not a compulsory checkpoint in the bathroom. An exfoliating toner is not the same thing as a soothing product: strong acids can irritate, so skip them on skin that is already irritated from shaving.25

How to use them around a shave

1. 1Wash with a gentle cleanser and warm water. Shave after a shower, or soften the hair with a warm, damp washcloth.
2. 2Apply shaving cream or gel and let it soften the hair for two to three minutes. Shave in the direction of hair growth, using light strokes and avoiding repeated passes.
3. 3Rinse away the shaving cream. Use a cool, damp washcloth to soothe freshly shaved skin.
4. 4Finish with a gentle moisturizer or soothing aftershave. If you use toner on a day without shaving, gently swipe or spray it on after cleansing and before moisturizer. Do not rinse it off.
5. 5Use toner once or twice daily if tolerated. Start a formula with strong acids every other day rather than adding it at full frequency.
6. 6For a morning shave, apply sunscreen as part of your morning routine.

What should you expect?

A cool washcloth and moisturizer can soothe razor burn. Razor burn usually lasts a few hours to a few days; avoid shaving the affected area until it clears. Toner changes are slower and often subtle, generally taking six weeks to three months. Neither bottle replaces good shaving technique.256

When should you stop or get help?

Test a new product on a small area of your inner arm or elbow twice daily for seven to ten days before using it more widely. If you develop redness, itching or swelling, gently wash it off and stop using it. Seek help for a severe reaction that does not settle with a cool compress or petroleum jelly.7

Choose fragrance free rather than simply unscented products, which can contain masking fragrance. If you use prescription products for rosacea, be cautious about adding toner. See a clinician if shaving irritation does not clear within a few days or looks infected, or if razor bumps persist despite changing your shaving habits.23457