A smooth shaving experience is not just about the shave itself but also about the prep work and, of course, the post-shave routine. Now you might be thinking that you’ve got yours down already, but rinsing your face and scrubbing it dry with that towel you’ve had since your teens isn’t exactly what we had in mind. Trust us, if there’s one thing that old Jack knows about, it’s shaving. And scraping a sharp blade on your skin repeatedly is a sure-fire way to irritate your skin even if it doesn’t bother you. So, what post-shave tips do we have for you? Well, start off with a good routine and stick to it.
Rinse well
I’m guessing that if we checked all your towels we’d find more than a few traces of shaving oil or cream dried in there. So, at the risk of sounding a bit obvious, once you’re finished your shave, rinse your face well with cold water. No need for warm water at this stage as you want to close the pores up and cool your skin. Make sure you get whatever shaving product you’re using off completely, even the bits that have gone up your nose or behind the earlobes.
Pat dry
Even if you have skin as tough as a leatherback’s shell, you’ll still want to be careful when drying. Pat your skin dry as rubbing your freshly shaven face with that decades-old towel will be like pulling sandpaper across your neck.
Use a good Aftershave Balm
Let’s first get one thing straight, aftershave splash and aftershave balm are two entirely different products. Splash is an antiseptic with a strong scent and is usually alcohol based. Balm, on the other hand, is a hydrating lotion with a scent that is gone soon after application. Splash will often tighten and dry out the skin whereas balm is more soothing. Which product you use is up to you (and your skin) but we recommend balms, especially for those with sensitive skin.
So what are the best post shave saviours out there? Well, old Jack has been at it again and has gone and designed his very own range of skin-care and grooming range to get that fresh-out-the-barbers look. I know you’re all on tenterhooks for the launch of our E-shop but for now… here are a few of our favourite post-shave saviours…
Nivea Sensitive Post Shave Balm
This is the no frills post shave balm that does exactly what it says on the bottle. It’s got Chamomile and Vitamin E to help soothe your skin and prevent the dryness suffered after shaving. No bells or whistles here, just a simple yet solid product at an affordable price.
This world famous Italian brand has been a favourite among barbers since they produced their first shaving product in 1948. As far as skincare for men goes, this is the Ferrari of aftershave balms and is a top notch hydrator and perfect for those of us that suffer from dry skin. You’ll find no alcohol, mineral oil, or artificial colours, just plenty of natural ingredients such as Aloe Vera and liquorice to reduce redness.
We couldn’t possibly provide post shaving tips or balm recommendations without giving a good old British product a plug. As the official shaving line of the Royal Family, they don’t come much more British than Truefitt & Hill. Their Trafalgar balm (yes it is named after the battle) is scented with sandalwood, jasmine, and cedar and features Aloe Vera and Lanolin that cools and soothes your irritated post shave skin. If Proraso is the Ferrari, this balm is the Rolls Royce. Pricey but you’re probably worth it.
So that’s a simple three step routine that anyone can follow. And while we highly recommend these steps and balms for your everyday post-shave routine, we still think you’d do well to pop into Jack’s once in a while to experience the real deal.
