What to look for in an aftershave

A good aftershave is lot like a well-tailored suit or a fresh haircut – it ties your whole look together and exudes a vibe of total confidence and undeniable handsomeness when you pull it off. The key, of course, lies in pulling it off. So how do you choose an aftershave that works for you? 

We caught up with local perfumer Tammy Frazer, founder of Frazer Parfum, to find out what the prevailing trends are in the world of aftershave. According to Tammy, there are evergreen classics that remain firm favourites, and a few fashionable notes that crop up every season. 

“Most guys like fresh, toner-like aftershaves,” says Tammy. “However, this season there are many trailblazers out there who are being more adventurous and trying woody and herbaceous notes.” If you are currently in the market for a new cologne or aftershave there are a few ways to narrow down your options.

Determine your skin type

First things first, figure out what skin type you have. The main categories are normal, sensitive, dry, oily and combination. Knowing what your type is will allow you to choose an aftershave that contributes to the overall health of your skin, instead of stripping it of its natural barriers. 

Experiment with balms and splashes

Aftershaves fall into two broad categories, namely balms and splashes. Balms feel heavier on the skin and provide more moisture and irritation relief, making them great for men living in cold or dry climates. Splashes normally contain a combination of toners, astringents and hydrosols that cleanse and provide antibacterial protection, so they’re very popular with men living in hot and humid climates.

Don’t be afraid to experiment

In the end, the best way to find an aftershave that works for you is to try it out. Take some time to sniff the testers at your nearest fragrance retailer, and feel the product on your skin. There is only so much you can tell from looking at the bottle – dive in nose first and find that perfect scent that ticks all your must-have olfactory boxes. 

Fun fact: You lose the ability to smell your signature fragrance after a while, so if you want to keep things fresh, have a few in rotation or choose a new one every now and again. 
 

IMAGE CREDIT: 123rf.com