Man applying aftershave to his cheek after shaving

The Ultimate Guide to Aftershaves Balms vs Splashes

Guide to Aftershaves: Balms vs Splashes

Finished your shave? The next step should leave your skin feeling comfortable, not tight or unhappy. An aftershave balm adds moisture, while a splash offers a lighter finish and often a more noticeable fragrance. The best choice depends on the formula and what your skin enjoys.

Aftershave balms: moisture and comfort

A balm is a lotion-style product designed to moisturise skin after shaving. Ingredients vary, but you’ll often find glycerin, aloe vera, plant oils or shea butter. If your face feels dry or tight after a shave, a balm is a good place to start.

Don’t assume every balm is alcohol-free or fragrance-free. Check the individual ingredients, particularly if your skin reacts to fragrance, menthol or other ingredients.

Balms to try at Shaving Time

  • Dapper Dan Aftershave Balm: a moisturising option with shea butter, cocoa butter and glycerin, with a fresh eucalyptus and menthol character. Worth a look if you enjoy a cooling finish.
  • Nomad Theory Sorrento Aftershave Balm: combines aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and squalane with a citrus, mint and sea-note fragrance. A good choice if you prefer a bright, fresh scent alongside your post-shave moisturiser.

Aftershave splashes: a light, refreshing finish

Splashes are liquid aftershaves that you pat onto the skin. Many traditional formulas contain alcohol and have a distinctive brisk feel, but alcohol-free splashes exist too. “Splash” describes the format, not a guarantee about the ingredients.

If alcohol-based aftershaves leave your skin feeling dry or uncomfortable, try a different formula rather than putting up with the sting. Fragrance and menthol can also feel too intense on freshly shaved skin.

Splashes to try at Shaving Time

Balm vs splash: which should you choose?

Choose a balm if moisture and a soft, comfortable finish are your priorities. Choose a splash if you prefer a light liquid texture and enjoy the fragrance or refreshing feel of its particular formula.

For sensitive skin, look beyond the product name. Check the ingredients and choose a formula you already tolerate where possible. Alcohol-free doesn’t automatically mean irritation-free.

Struggling with irritation after shaving? Read our guide to preventing and treating shaving rash for more on building a comfortable shaving routine.

Can you use both?

Yes, if your skin enjoys the combination. Apply a small amount of splash, let it settle, then follow with a little balm if you need extra moisture. There’s no need to layer products if one already leaves your skin comfortable.

How to finish your shave

Rinse away any remaining lather and gently pat your skin with a clean towel. Follow your chosen product’s directions and start with a small amount. Avoid the eye area, and stop using a product if it causes irritation.

There isn’t a single winner in the balm-versus-splash debate. Start with how your skin feels, then choose a scent and texture you’ll enjoy using. Explore the linked products above to compare their ingredients and find your next post-shave favourite.

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