Never used an actual aftershave - should I?

Messages
66
Location
Oxford
Hi all,

So I've been reading through the forum and I've been hit with the realisation that I've never used an aftershave splash as such. (I'm from a generation haunted by Kevin McCallisters look of terror after applying his dads aftershave haha).

I do currently use Thayers Witch Hazel 0% alcohol toner and a balm post shave but I'd quite like to put add some aftershave to the routine.

Would it be pointless to use the Witch hazel and then some AS before the balm?

Finally - what AS would you recommend performance wise?

Cheers
 
Sure I'd give it a try, though your witch hazel is basically doing the same job so I'd probably drop that if you plan to try AS.

What kind of performance are you looking for? Good to the skin, or long-lasting/nice fragrance? I use Speick and highly recommend it, though really it's just expensive witch hazel with alcohol and some probably pointless guff. Doesn't smell "pretty", seems to do my skin good though.
 
I used to use it a lot before rediscovering wet shaving. Must admit I tend to do as you do at the moment and use witch hazel and a post shave balm. Still use after-shave ocassionally as it always arrives at Christmas! My wife likes the smell of Boss (in the blue bottle) so that's the only one I get .
 
Sure I'd give it a try, though your witch hazel is basically doing the same job so I'd probably drop that if you plan to try AS.

What kind of performance are you looking for? Good to the skin, or long-lasting/nice fragrance? I use Speick and highly recommend it, though really it's just expensive witch hazel with alcohol and some probably pointless guff. Doesn't smell "pretty", seems to do my skin good though.

Yeah I did wonder about the need for Witch Hazel and AS. I was thinking that the alcohol content in the AS may have added benefits?

Performance-wise I'm not too bothered about the scent as I'd use an EDT for fragrance anyhow. I quite like a sting/burn feeling after a shave, makes the face feel really clean and smooth. Currently I don't get that from my post shave. I've only had the feeling previously from Nyxon Bump Control. But the other half absolutely hated the smell of that.
 
You should try and find the combination that works for you.

I have used mainly AS lotions (such as Mennen green tonic, Boots freshwood, Superdrug forest fresh) with or without applying a Nivea balm afterwards. Though, when using an EdT, I only apply a balm or witch hazel first.
 
I've never used aftershave either. I put my faith in stronger scents in my soaps so they linger for a while. If you invest in expensive artisan soaps, why kill their scents by applying something else?

I know there are equivalent artisan balms and I should probably try them, but that's a lot of extra £Â£.......
 
I wouldn't use both witch hazel and a/s - they do the same thing but with added sting if you use a/s. worth trying for the experience - you may find a/s a bit more drying but the choice of fragrance adds to the shave.

when I finish my stock of a/s (about 6 bottles) I will be using witch hazel instead.

boots freshwood is good - smells like Aramis Tuscany.
 
Thanks everyone.

So I am thinking I will stick with the Thayers Witch hazel for now, I have great results with it. I may pick up some with added alcohol at some point

Is there any aftershave lotion or aftershave balm that would provide that burning/clean sensation that you'd recommend?
 
I've never used aftershave either. I put my faith in stronger scents in my soaps so they linger for a while. If you invest in expensive artisan soaps, why kill their scents by applying something else?

I know there are equivalent artisan balms and I should probably try them, but that's a lot of extra £Â£.......
Try Bart's Balms. Very reasonable and some interesting scents.
 
The witch hazel is good and because it's got zero scent you can use whatever A/S you like (maybe just on your neck). If I use Floid though, I don't bother with the witch hazel. Either way, put something on that smells good on you - chicks dig it! :cool:
 
Okay gents, some feedback.

I haven't got it down to an exact science yet, but I am finding that I really enjoying using AS. Plus I find that I'm a big fan of the scents. However as my skin has a tendency to dry out, I would be applying an unscented balm after the aftershave.

Something that HAS been somewhat of a revelation however, is Barts Balm. They are the best smelling (And longest lasting scent) balm I've ever used. Using witch hazel and finishing off with the balm makes my face feel awesome. Will no doubt end up buying the rest of the scents available at some point!
 
Back
Top Bottom