When you look at both Aftershave Balm and Moisturiser they typically say similar things on the packaging such as 'hydrate and calm', so are they actually different products or is one just clever repackaging of the other?
Short answer is they slightly overlap, but they are formulated for different jobs. Here's how to tell the difference and when you can get away with using just one.
What Aftershave Balm is Actually For (Shave Products)
Aftershave balm exists to deal with the aftermath of a razor. Shaving strips away the top layer of dead skin cells along with your stubble, which means it can also strip away oils and leave the skin barrier temporarily compromised. That's why your face can feel tight, raw or even sting a little after shaving, especially if you shaved against the grain.
A good aftershave balm is formulated too:
- Calm irritation with ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile
- Reduce redness from razor friction
- Replenish lost moisture without clogging skin thats already sensitised
Crucially, most balms are alcohol free. Older style aftershaves used alcohol to disinfect the skin but alcohol dries it out and makes the irritation worse, which is exactly what a balm is trying to avoid.
What Moisturiser is Actually For (Moisturisers)
Moisturiser has a broader everyday job. Keeping the skin barrier hydrated and functioning well, protected and to lock in moisture, regardless of whether it's been shaved. Designed for daily use morning and night.
A men's moisturiser typically includes;
- Hydrating properties - hyaluronic acid or glycerin to draw moisture into the skin
- Emollients - to smooth and soften the skin
- Oils - light weight oils to lock moisture in like Squalane
- Antioxidants - to fight daily environmental damage
A balm is more reactive - responding to irritation of shaving, and moisturising is protecting and hydrating.
Do You Need both?
If you are a regular shaver, yes. Here's our recommendation on using both. On shaving days apply the balm first after shaving to calm the skin, then apply your moisturiser to lock in hydration and protect the skin. Then on non shaving days you can apply just the moisturiser, with no irritation to soothe, your moisturiser is the better option.
Can You Use Aftershave Balm Instead of Moisturiser
You can, but its not ideal for long term use. Because balms are designed to be gentle on freshly shaved skin, they are lighter and less concentrated. You might find over time your skin becomes dry.
If you only want to buy one, we would recommend a fragrance free, alcohol free balm with solid hydrating properties. But a proper two step routine will always out perform a single product trying to do both jobs.
There are also ways to prevent irritation during shaving, check out our article on how to get rid of razor burn, fast.
FAQ
Q - Is aftershave balm the same as moisturiser?
A - No. Aftershave balm is formulated to calm and soothe skin after shaving, while moisturiser is designed for everyday hydration whether you have shaved or not.
Q - Can I skip moisturiser if I use aftershave balm?
A - You can use balm alone occasionally, but its not a full substitute for long term.
Q - Should I apply aftershave balm or moisturiser first?
A - Apply the balm first after shaving to calm your skin, and then follow with moisturiser for hydration.
Q - Do I need aftershave balm if I don't shave often?
It depends if you get irritation after shaving? If you don't shave often and don't get much irritation, then you don't need one. The balms are designed for soothing irritated skin.
Our top pick for Aftershave Balm - Thalgo Men Aftershave Balm
Our top pick for Hydrating Moisturiser - Thalgo Men Hydrating Cream
Our top pick for Shave Creams - Dear Barber Shave Oil
