How to use aftershave gel

What is aftershave gel?

Aftershave is a lotion, gel or liquid applied to the face after shaving. Aftershave belongs after the razor, a rare case where the product name does the explaining. A hydrating gel can help soothe skin and restore moisture after shaving. Shaving cream or shaving gel has a different job: it provides lubrication between your skin and the blade while you shave.23

Apply aftershave gel in this order

1. 1Prepare your skin. Wash with a cleanser labelled noncomedogenic, meaning it will not clog pores. Shave at the end of a shower, or soften the hair with a warm, damp washcloth.
2. 2Use moisturizing shaving cream while shaving. Move the razor in the direction your hair grows rather than against it.
3. 3Rinse away the shaving cream with warm water once you have finished shaving.
4. 4Place a cool, damp washcloth on the freshly shaved area to soothe it.
5. 5Apply a soothing aftershave gel to the shaved skin. Follow your product's directions for the amount to use.

When should you use it?

Use aftershave gel once you have finished shaving, so the application follows your shave rather than a separate morning or evening schedule. For razor bump prevention, choose a soothing aftershave formulated to reduce the risk of bumps and irritation. Aftershave is one part of the routine; the razor still needs good technique, because the gel is not its supervisor.1

Which gel should you choose for sensitive skin?

Read the ingredients before applying aftershave to irritated skin. Avoid fragrance, alcohol and any ingredients that irritate your skin. An alcohol free aftershave or fragrance free moisturizing lotion can help replenish moisture. Aloe vera gel is another soothing option: its cooling qualities can ease discomfort while razor burn heals, but it is not a cure. Avoid using apple cider vinegar or witch hazel on razor burn, as they can sting.5

What should you expect after applying it?

A hydrating aftershave can help soothe dry, irritated skin. Razor burn usually appears within minutes of shaving and lasts a few hours to a few days. Razor burn is a blotchy rash; razor bumps look more like small pimples and involve hairs growing back into the skin. If you have razor burn, avoid shaving the affected area until it clears rather than applying gel and shaving over it again.2

Reduce irritation during the shave too

Use light, short strokes and avoid repeatedly shaving the same section. Rinse the blade every few strokes to remove collected hair and shaving product. Replace a disposable razor after five to seven shaves and store it somewhere dry. Softening the hair before shaving and following its direction of growth also help reduce razor bumps.12

When should you stop or get help?

Stop using a product that irritates your skin. Contact a healthcare provider if the rash does not clear within a few days, gets worse or looks infected. Persistent razor bumps despite changes to your shaving habits need a dermatologist's attention because untreated bumps can leave scars.125

Aftershave must not be swallowed. If someone swallows it, seek medical help immediately and do not induce vomiting. In the United States, call Poison Help on 1 800 222 1222; elsewhere, contact your local poison control service or emergency number.3