If you loathe razor burn and ingrown hairs and dread acne, stop putting up with them.
Change the way you shave and start the healing process. But you’ll need more than a fresh razor. What you do after you shave is just as important.
It’s also crucial to use the best aftershave balm and lotion for sensitive skin.
Let’s talk about what’s in aftershave lotion and why it may be bad for your skin.
Which is the best aftershave for sensitive skin?
The best aftershave balms for sensitive skin are alcohol-free. Without alcohol, they won’t dehydrate your face.
They may also be fragrance-free to prevent allergic reactions. Although you might wish for the best-smelling aftershave balm, look at it this way. An unscented aftershave lotion won’t clash with your cologne.
So, the checklist for the safest aftershave includes the following:
- no drying alcohol (but fatty alcohols are fine)
- no fragrance
- no pore-clogging ingredients or heavy oils
- no harsh chemicals or potential allergens
The good news is that there are plenty of sensitive skin aftershaves that meet these requirements. You’ll see them in the reviews below.
Tips for the perfect shave when you have sensitive skin
You may already know that dull razors increase the risk of ingrown hairs and razor burn. But so do razors with multiple blades. They lift the hair before cutting it, forcing it down into the skin. Although it’s nice to have a close shave, it leads to hair trapped under the surface. You can also prevent ingrown hairs if you don’t shave against the grain (1).
Avoid stretching the skin tight, and shave after showering instead of before. Shaving after showering also helps prevent acne, as washing reduces the number of bacteria on the skin. It may also help to use an exfoliating cleanser on your face.
Stick to a one or two-blade razor, rinse it after every pass, and change it frequently.
Be content with the fact that you may not have the closest shave, but at least your skin won’t be covered in red bumps.
For even better results, apply a shave balm to prepare the skin, then use fragrance-free shaving cream. Wrap up with aftershave balm or sensitive skin moisturizer. In the winter, use a balm or lotion, and a splash-on (alcohol-free) aftershave in the summer.
Best Aftershave Balm & Lotion for Sensitive Skin in 2024
NIVEA Men Sensitive Skin & Stubble Balm
It may be a drugstore aftershave, but this balm is formulated to calm irritation and itching. It features chamomile extract and almond oil to soothe and soften the skin. Therefore, it doubles as a moisturizer.
If you choose not to shave, it will make the stubble feel softer, too. Users say that it’s excellent for cold, dry winter weather. For summer weather, they recommend the lightweight Sensitive Skin Balm that isn’t indicated for stubble.
The balm is alcohol-free, but it has an artificial fragrance (cedar and sage), which is ostensibly safe for sensitive skin. Reviewers comment that it’s a subtle scent that doesn’t linger all day long. They also like how the aftershave lotion comes in a durable aluminum bottle.
Proraso After Shave Balm, Sensitive Skin
Italian company Proraso has been the pro barber’s choice since 1948. They designed this balm with 95% natural ingredients. It has no animal derivatives, alcohol, dyes, mineral oil, parabens, or silicone.
It relieves irritated skin and redness with green tea and oatmeal and serves as an excellent lightweight moisturizer. There’s a hint of apple and lime fragrance that fades soon after you apply it.
Wahl After Shave with Essential Oils for Sensitive Skin
Wahl’s aftershave comes highly recommended by men who have to deal with cystic acne and razor burn. They love it because it’s a creamy lotion that forms a protective barrier over sensitive skin.
Don’t be put off by the thick texture – it dries quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy or sticky residue.
Moreover, it features Manuka oil, which is naturally antimicrobial. Along with moringa oil, it helps reduce acne and inflammation. Meanwhile, meadowfoam seed softens stubble while clove oil stops the itching.
The refreshing formula is free of artificial dyes, phthalates, and parabens.
CW Beggs and Sons Sensitive Skin After-Shave Lotion
Don’t you hate it when you nick yourself while shaving? This aftershave balm puts a stop to the bleeding almost immediately. It also eliminates redness and irritation.
The lightweight texture moisturizes and promotes speedy healing. That’s no surprise as it’s free of alcohol, fragrances, parabens, oil, and gluten.
Yes, this is the best aftershave for susceptible skin and allergies.
Taylor of Old Bond Street Jermyn Street Aftershave for Sensitive Skin
Soothe the sting of razor burn and diminish the redness with this luxury cream. It has no alcohol, parabens, or other allergens in it. It’s specifically designed for treating razor rash.
It has a thin texture and a pleasing scent.
Bulldog Mens Skincare and Grooming Original After Shave Balm
Bulldog never includes synthetic fragrances, artificial colors, or animal derivatives in their products. They use natural extracts like aloe, chamomile, and green tea to protect and heal the skin.
Reviewers like this aftershave balm because it’s moisturizing but not greasy.
Anthony Aftershave Balm
Refresh your face with this cooling balm. It’s a lightweight liquid that rehydrates the skin.
At the same time, it calms razor burn and prevents infection. That’s because it contains rosemary and eucalyptus, natural antiseptics. Instead of harsh menthol, it has corn mint for that fresh sensation that tightens pores.
Jack Black Post Shave Cooling Gel
Jack Black blends the best of science and nature to create this soothing aftershave. It’s also handy for treating sunburn.
The gel is free of alcohol, artificial dyes, and animal ingredients. Instead, it relies on botanicals like aloe, balm mint, and sage to cool and heal the skin. Furthermore, it’s packed with antioxidants and vitamins that speed up healing.
AHAVA Men’s Dead Sea Mineral Aftershave Moisturizer
Since it carries recommendations from the likes of GQ and Men’s Journal, you’re likely to love this aftershave lotion. It’s fortified with healing minerals from the Dead Sea. Reviewers say that it instantly relieves razor rash and helps recovery from nicks.
Happily, it’s also dermatologist-tested to be allergen-free. It contains no petroleum, parabens, phthalates, animal ingredients, or even GMOs.
Bee Bald HEAL Post-Shave Healing Balm
The best aftershave for head and face is made by Bee Bald. They aren’t picky – they say women love it too. After all, anyone who shaves skin is prone to ingrown hairs and razor burn.
The essential ingredients are honey, bee pollen, oats, arnica, vitamins, and licorice root. As you might imagine, it’s a healthy blend that calms the skin and makes it comfortable.
Paula’s Choice PC4MEN Soothe + Smooth Aftershave Treatment & Exfoliant
Here’s the bazooka that will take out ingrown hairs and blackheads. It will make your skin look younger and healthier than it has in a long time.
The secret to its power is salicylic acid, a potent anti-acne medication. It prevents ingrown hairs and razor burn.
Next, there’s licorice and allantoin to calm redness and provide a dose of antioxidants. Meanwhile, hyaluronic acid packs in the moisture.
Lastly, peptides fortify the skin and make it more supple.
The Art of Shaving After-Shave Balm for Men
This anti-aging aftershave was clinically tested to be safe for sensitive skin. It rehydrates the skin and seals in moisture for up to 8 hours. At the same time, it minimizes fine lines and uneven texture.
It’s an alcohol-free formula with a subtle fragrance. The only complaint is that the nozzle of the bottle tends to clog.
Baxter of California Shave Tonic For Men
Which is the best aftershave for ingrown hairs? This one achieved the GQ Grooming Award as it does everything well–it treats ingrown hairs, tones, and moisturizes.
It’s pH-balanced and enriched with essential oils for maximum benefit.
Use it before shaving to prepare your skin and prevent bumps and irritation. Apply it again after you rinse with cool water for extra soothing.
It’s also useful for softening stubble on the days you don’t want to shave.
Key ingredients include vitamins, aloe, rosemary, and eucalyptus. But please take note that it’s not alcohol-free, plus it has menthol. If you prefer to avoid the alcohol, check out the next shave balm below.
Baxter of California Men’s After Shave Balm for Men
This therapeutic balm is also a men’s moisturizer. It doesn’t just calm the skin, but it also improves its appearance. It features organic silicones that lock in moisture and condition.
It also has aloe and allantoin to clear up redness, while tea tree oil reduces inflammation.
Lather & Wood After-shave Balm
Go old school with a traditional sandalwood scented-balm. This one immediately makes the skin feel better after shaving. It takes away the burn and leaves it soft and smooth.
There’s no alcohol in it. It uses witch hazel instead. It’s a natural toner that moisturizes.
Plus, the company offers a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Pacific Shaving Company Caffeinated Aftershave
You may have seen this aftershave mentioned in Forbes or Men’s Health. It’s an American-made product that’s vegan and free of artificial fragrances and parabens.
The much-touted caffeine it contains is both an antioxidant and a toner. It calms redness and firms the skin. Plus, it helps repairs at a cellular level.
Every Man Jack Post Shave Face Lotion
Every Man Jack is a response in part to Jack Black’s pricey lineup. These guys go the extra mile to do things the right way without charging an arm and a leg.
The lightweight lotion won’t clog pores and doesn’t feel greasy. It lets you skip a step after shaving by taking the place of your aftershave.
What’s more, it’s free of artificial colors, parabens, phthalates, and GMOs. It’s also packaged in post-consumer recycled plastic.
Cremo Cooling Formula Post Shave Balm
If your skin can handle menthol, this is a very pleasant aftershave. The fresh sensation comes from natural ingredients like tea tree oil and menthol, not alcohol.
It will tighten the pores and calm redness. Plus, it hydrates the skin with shea butter and baobab seed oil.
Gillette After Shave Lotion, Sensitive Skin
It may be a drugstore aftershave, but the Sensitive version is alcohol-free. Gillette’s manly-scented lotion soothes after shaving whether you use an electric or traditional razor.
It’s not greasy, so feel free to use it whenever you want to hydrate your face.
Just be aware that you’ll want to read the label if you have very sensitive skin. The last time we checked, it contained an artificial fragrance, mineral oil, and parabens.
Neutrogena Men’s Shaving Cream
Attention: This is a shaving cream, not an aftershave. But it’s highly recommended as the best shaving product for men with sensitive skin.
In fact, it’s clinically proven to improve the skin’s health and provide a close shave without causing acne or irritation. It also prevents razor rash and ingrown hairs.
Lubriderm Men’s 3-In-1 Unscented Lotion
Do you really have to use aftershave, or can you get away with just plain lotion instead? Try Lubriderm’s moisturizer and discover for yourself.
This is a dermatologist-developed product that won’t sting your eyes or your freshly-shaved chin. It’s a face and body lotion with minerals and aloe to keep the skin healthy.
Thayers Alcohol-Free Coconut Water Witch Hazel Facial Toner
Witch hazel is superior to alcohol. It’s a far better toner that tightens pores and cleanses the skin. It’s also pH-balanced.
Not only that, but it clears up redness and inflammation, especially since it’s blended with vitamin-rich coconut water. The coconut gives it a light natural fragrance.
If you’ve been dissatisfied with other aftershaves, this could be the answer you’re seeking.
Conclusion
Do you find yourself putting off shaving because of the irritation afterward? Solve the problem with a sensitive skin aftershave balm or lotion.
Use this essential tool to ward off acne and ingrown hairs, plus moisturize your face all in one go. It saves time and prevents unnecessary suffering.
If you had good results with a product we reviewed here today, come back and tell us about it.
Source:
1. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/beard-mustache-skin-problems by Colleen Moriarty, published July 20, 2020, accessed December 2, 2020
