Thread: Aftershave? Does it matter?

I'm slowly getting the hang of the straight razor shaving, and I am wondering if it really matters if I use a different aftershave than the one I use/used for safety razor shaving, which is a basic Gillette Gel. I'm on a budget with this stuff, so if it really makes a difference, can someone give me some "cheap" aftershaves that are good for straight shaving? Thanks - Jim (JDCAL29)

When it comes to aftershaves in my opinion they are all mostly alcohol, scent and water. The balms and gels have a few other ingredients to soothe but in the end to me it's just a matter of what you like the best.

If you like the Gillette, stick with that.

Jim,

Aftershave is a choice rather than a requirement. Use it if you want to. As a rule, I apply balm after the shave and, after the cleanup, apply a touch of aftershave.

Not all aftershaves are expensive. You can pick up Pinaud's Clubman at your local pharmacy for about $7. Pinaud has a cult following and a little goes a long way.

Regards,

Obie

I just use some Nivea aftershave balm I picked up from the local drug store. Its cheap and works great. Like thebigspenur said, if the gel works for you, stick with it until you have some extra cash to explore.

Thanks guys. I'll use what I have left of the gel and then try the Pinaud next time for fun. - Jim

Originally Posted by JDCAL29

Thanks guys. I'll use what I have left of the gel and then try the Pinaud next time for fun. - Jim

Oh No... Not Lilac Vegetal... IMHO Eau de gas station urinal would be better

Anything you like or nothing at all works just fine. I just found Jade East at Shoe Box... I had not used that since the early 70's.

Originally Posted by JDCAL29

I'm slowly getting the hang of the straight razor shaving, and I am wondering if it really matters if I use a different aftershave than the one I use/used for safety razor shaving, which is a basic Gillette Gel. I'm on a budget with this stuff, so if it really makes a difference, can someone give me some "cheap" aftershaves that are good for straight shaving? Thanks - Jim (JDCAL29)

It really doesn't make any difference what aftershave you use. Whatever floats your boat.

If you want a change of pace from the Gillette aftershave, try Pinaud. It comes in a variety of scents--Clubman, Bay Rum, etc. They're readily available at your local drugstore or on the internet, they smell good and they're relatively inexpensive.

Another good inexpensive aftershave is Booster (Canadian). I like their Polar Ice fragrance, but like Pinaud it comes in a variety of scents.

Originally Posted by JDCAL29

I'm slowly getting the hang of the straight razor shaving, and I am wondering if it really matters if I use a different aftershave than the one I use/used for safety razor shaving, which is a basic Gillette Gel. I'm on a budget with this stuff, so if it really makes a difference, can someone give me some "cheap" aftershaves that are good for straight shaving? Thanks - Jim (JDCAL29)

Avoid cheep... inexpensive is OK.

The least expensive is Witch hazel.
Witch hazel is an astringent and some folk like
it a lot some not.

A non astringent post shave product to consider
is a balm like those from Nivea. They are healing
and for those that react to alcohol they are wonderful.

If you want "good smellum" stuff it is hard to
find quality cologne that dos not cost a mint.
Some of the junk also costs a mint so shop
critically. There are some good ones out there
and a little goes a LONG way so when you find
a good one save up and a little drop or two on
occasion will do you for a year. Some like Old Spice.

Most give me a rash or stuff up my nose so I avoid them.
Some to the point that they are not work friendly and can
even ruin a dinner with good wine or even a good beer at
the table. Especially so now that smoking is prohibited
in most public places here.