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The process of shaving and the rituals involved do more than give a clean and suave look to the man. The shaving brush exfoliates the skin by cleaning off the dead skin cells that could hamper the actual process of shaving. The shaving razor then exfoliates further.

The aftershave, which is used at the end, nourishes the skin which has been exposed after the removal of the dead cell layer from it and tightens the skin. The aftershave also contain antiseptic agents such as stearate citrate, witch hazel or denatured alcohol which would prevent infection in case there are any cuts and would also work as an astringent to reduce the irritation of the skin.

Why go for Natural Aftershaves

Conventional aftershaves, which contain synthetic chemicals and fragrances, have the tendency to affect the skin after shaving. Natural aftershaves, on the other hand, do not contain any harsh chemicals. While buying your aftershave, some natural products that you can look for in your aftershave can be aloe vera, tea tree oil, chamomile, apple cider vinegar, witch hazel, calendula, lavender, jojoba oil, rose oil distillate and various vitamins.

Choosing the Right Aftershave

With innumerable aftershaves out in the market, buying an aftershave has become more challenging than ever. It has become difficult to choose the right aftershave. Aftershave is an important aspect of the post-shaving process. Hence, choose an aftershave which best protects your skin. This can be done only after determining what type of skin you possess. Once you have placed your skin type, choose the best aftershave for your skin type and which serves your purpose.

Determining Your Skin Type

Normal Skin Type

The lucky ones are endowed with normal skin which has even tone all over; the skin is soft and there are no traces of oil on the skin. This skin type can endure any aftershave and you will not even need strong toners to remove any oil.

Oily Skin Type

If you have oily skin, then it will be prone to pimples and blackheads. Your skin will feel oily and it will have sheen to it. This skin type needs a toner to dry out the oil from the skin. Those with oily skin need to look out for aftershaves which are cream-free including free form shea butter. Look for something which is water based and would soothe the skin. Use alcohol-based aftershave, which is the best aftershave for your skin type as it will dry some of the oil from your skin and make it smooth.

Dry Skin Type

Dry skin will look rough and dry and is more likely to peel off. A person with dry skin will need an aftershave that contains moisturizer which will prevent the evaporation of excess water from the skin and make it softer. Use an aloe vera based aftershave which will moisturize the skin and replenish the moisture that has been lost. Aloe vera will also soothe any irritations or cuts during shaving.

Sensitive Skin Type

If your skin is sensitive then it will occasionally break out with rashes and will itch and irritate after shaving. If you have issues with dry skin or razor burn regularly, then your skin is the sensitive type. Use a mild aftershave with little alcohol or any strong ingredient to protect your sensitive skin.

We all know that aloe vera is a cooling gel which soothes sunburn. It can also be used on the sensitive skin after shaving as it does not contain alcohol and will serve as the best aftershave for your skin type.

Combination Skin Type

A combination skin type will have greasy skin around some places like the nose and the forehead while at a few places it will be sensitive like the neck and will be dry in still other areas like the cheeks. So choosing the right aftershave for this skin type is tricky, and you will have to try out combinations of different aftershaves if you have this type of skin.

You can use rosemary oil, which other than having antibacterial properties also smells great. The benefits of coconut oil are uncountable and if used as an aftershave will prevent breakouts. Shea butter and apple cider vinegar can also be used as aftershaves.

Clothes make a man and the perfect aftershave gives him personality. So don’t hesitate to try out different aftershaves till you find the best aftershave for your skin type; one that suits your skin and also gives you confidence.