After shave lotion can help end your shaving session with cool, refreshed skin and a smoother finish. But using the wrong type of after shave lotion, or using after shave lotion on sensitive skin, can give the exact opposite results. When applying after shave lotion, make sure you use the right type and with the right method for the best results possible. Sometimes, you might not even need to use after shave lotion at all.
Step 1
Read the ingredients of your after shave lotion. Your lotion should not contain any alcohol, which can be very drying to the skin and painful to apply, warns Columbia University's advice columnist, Alice. Look for soothing ingredients such as vitamin E and aloe for the best results.
Step 2
Shave your skin as usual, making sure to use a good quality shave gel and shave with the grain to limit irritation. When finished, rinse any remaining shave gel and pat dry. After shave lotion should be applied to dry skin, but you shouldn't scrub your skin dry, as it can cause excess irritation. When shaving, you remove the top layer of skin, leaving it sensitive and dry.
Step 3
Pour a nickel-sized amount of after shave lotion into your hands, rub them together, then apply to your skin in a downward motion. This limits irritation from rubbing up and down the skin. If your skin stings, stop the application immediately and change brands. A good-quality after shave lotion shouldn't hurt to arrive.
Step 4
Wait for the after shave lotion to absorb into skin before you assess the need for more. Your skin should feel smooth and supple after the application. If it still feels dry, add another application.
Step 5
Avoid using after shave lotion if you suffer from folliculitis barbae, says Lawrence S. Neinstein, professor of pediatrics and medicine at the USC Keck School of Medicine. This is a conditioner where ingrown hairs are observed after shaving. In this case, lotions, creams and after shaves should be avoid, as they can exacerbate the condition.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Towel
- After shave lotion
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