Should you use aftershave with aloe?

What is aloe vera aftershave balm?

An aloe vera aftershave balm is a moisturizing product containing aloe, intended for use after shaving. Aloe gel is used in cosmetic creams and lotions, so aloe aftershave does not have to mean a plain gel, which makes the product name less helpful about what comes out of the bottle. The word aftershave describes a place in the routine, which is unusually straightforward naming for a skincare product.23

What can aloe do after shaving?

Aloe has a history of use for minor skin irritation because of its reported soothing, moisturizing and cooling effects. Its medical benefits are not firmly established, and there is insufficient evidence to recommend topical aloe as a treatment for wounds. Use an aloe balm for comfort and moisture, not to treat a shaving cut or an infected bump.2

How do you choose an aloe aftershave?

Look for a gentle product that moisturizes skin after shaving. If razor bumps are your main problem, choose a soothing aftershave formulated to reduce bumps and irritation rather than choosing by the aloe name alone. Sensitive skin also needs gentle products during the shave, not just a soothing product afterwards.13

Shaving cream softens hair, moisturizes skin and adds a protective layer while the razor moves across it. Aftershave comes afterwards; applying a balm at the end does not replace shaving cream during a wet shave, which is a lot of explanation for a product named after its own entrance cue. Shaving cream and aftershave have different jobs, despite both being recruited into the same bathroom ceremony.1

How do you use aloe aftershave?

1. 1Wet your skin and hair with warm water. Shaving after a shower helps soften the hair. Before shaving, wash with a cleanser labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores.
2. 2Apply moisturizing shaving cream or gel. For very dry or sensitive skin, look for shaving cream labelled for sensitive skin. Leave the cream or gel on for 2 to 3 minutes to soften the hair further.
3. 3Shave in the direction the hair grows. Aim for one pass rather than repeatedly shaving the same area, and rinse the blade after every stroke.
4. 4Rinse away the shaving cream. Follow with a cool, damp cloth or a cold water rinse to reduce irritation.
5. 5Finish with your moisturizing aftershave. This is the place for an aloe balm if you choose one; follow the individual product's application directions.

Replace disposable razors or blades after 5 to 7 shaves, and replace them sooner if they become blunt or damaged. Let the razor dry completely between uses and store it somewhere dry, rather than in the shower or on a wet sink. Blade care is part of reducing shaving irritation, even when you use aftershave.14

How often should you shave?

Apply the moisturizing finish after your shave rather than tying it to a particular time of day. How often to shave depends on the problem you are trying to avoid. For razor bump prevention, shaving daily or every 2 to 3 days can give hairs less time to grow and curve. For ingrown hairs, avoiding daily shaving and leaving at least 1 mm of stubble can help. If shaving has caused irritation, pause shaving until the irritation resolves.135

Will aloe aftershave prevent ingrown hairs?

An ingrown hair grows back into the skin and can form an itchy, raised bump. Coarse or curly hair makes ingrown hairs more likely. Preventing them centres on hair removal: shave with the grain, use as few strokes as possible, avoid a very close shave and consider an electric razor. Not shaving is the best way to prevent ingrown hairs. Do not scratch, pick or squeeze them, because this can damage skin and lead to infection.5

If you have facial acne, shave lightly with a sharp blade and never try to shave off spots. Shaving can aggravate acne. Trying an electric razor or a disposable blade razor can help you find which works better for your skin.4

When should you stop using aloe aftershave?

Topical aloe can cause burning discomfort, an allergic skin rash or hives. Stop using the product if these develop, and avoid aloe gel if you have a known allergy to it. Aloe also has an allergy caution for people allergic to plants such as lilies and tulips. A soothing ingredient is not automatically suitable for sensitive skin.2

See a doctor if an ingrown hair or the surrounding area is very painful, hot or swollen, or if you also have a high temperature or feel very unwell. See a dermatologist if razor bumps continue after you change your shaving habits. Persistent razor bumps can leave deep grooves and raised scars.35