Aftershave On Pimples – Does It Really Work?
Aftershave is a staple product for men’s grooming after shaving.
It’s known for its soothing properties, which treat and disinfect the skin, especially when cuts or nicks are present.
However, aftershave is slowly making its way into the mainstream beauty world.
Makeup gurus used aftershave as a makeup primer because some aftershaves contain Glycerin.
Glycerin is known to provide a smooth and tacky base for makeup to latch onto.
Now, it can also be an interesting product for treating acne.
It’s crucial to remember that aftershave is a skin-soothing product applied after a shave.
So, it’s bound to have other skin-loving ingredients that can help keep sebum at bay, clear pores, or dry out any spots.
However, does applying aftershave on pimples really work?
It can be challenging to determine the actual effectiveness of aftershave on acne, as all aftershaves vary in their ingredients. A few primary components, such as certain alcohols or essential oils, may help reduce pimples or flare-ups.
Aftershave can gradually become an integral part of your routine as a post-shave soother, spot treatment, or acne-healing product.
You can also consult your dermatologist to discuss the potential benefits of aftershave for your specific skin type.
What Is Aftershave?
Aftershave is a popular men’s grooming product typically used to heal the skin after shaving.
It has the texture of a thin liquid that quickly absorbs into the skin.
However, its antibacterial properties are known to cause stinging on the face (Home Alone, anyone?).
It’s designed to heal the skin and address post-shaving mishaps, such as cuts, razor burns, or nicks.
Each aftershave can offer various benefits depending on its ingredient list.
Benefits Of Aftershave
Aftershave can provide numerous benefits to the skin.
For example, aftershave may help reduce ingrown hairs, itching, swelling, and cuts.
These benefits are gained when using aftershave as intended.
However, is it possible that some of these benefits can also remedy pimples or breakouts?
Understanding how aftershave usually works is crucial before trying out a skincare hack.
Reduce Ingrown Hairs
Aftershave can help reduce ingrown hairs.
Due to improper shaving techniques, ingrown hairs often get trapped under the skin’s surface.
Additionally, ingrown hairs can increase the likelihood of flare-ups or pimples if excess dirt and sebum become trapped in the skin.
Aftershave will soothe the skin and keep it hydrated, reducing the chance of ingrown hairs appearing.
Minimise Itching/Swelling
Another common skin irritant that can occur post-shaving is itching and swelling.
Shaving, especially with a poor-quality razor, can increase the risk of irritation, such as dryness, redness, itching, or swelling.
Dry skin may also contribute to acne if the skin produces excess sebum.
Aftershave provides a hydrating and antibacterial benefit to the skin, helping to remedy flare-ups.
Heal Cuts/Nicks
One slip with the razor can easily result in an uncomfortable nick or cut.
Alcohol-based aftershave produces a severe stinging effect upon application, indicating effective disinfection.
Certain alcohol ingredients may also dry out spots or pimples.
Aftershave can also contain astringents to clean the skin and provide it with the nourishment it needs for healthy skin.
Common Aftershave Ingredients And How They Affect Pimples
Aftershaves vary by ingredients, so one type of aftershave can be more harmful to the skin than others.
Therefore, it’s essential to read and analyse its ingredient list in depth to determine if it can effectively treat acne.
Some skincare products can share similar ingredients to aftershave.
Popular ones include alcohol, witch hazel, and essential oils.
Additionally, everyone’s skin is unique and may not respond the same way.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a common ingredient in aftershaves and skincare products.
It can disinfect the skin and prevent cuts from getting infected.
However, frequently applying alcohol-based aftershave and skincare may lead to sensitised skin.
Alcohol can potentially dry out pimples, but it can also weaken the rest of your skin barrier.
So, it’s essential to use it sparingly.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a popular astringent that can be used on its own or formulated into aftershave.
It’s a handy ingredient for oily or acne-prone skin types, offering an alternative to alcohol.
However, witch hazel can be harsh towards sensitive skin types, but others may find success using it in aftershave or as an acne treatment.
Essential Oils
Finally, various essential oils may help remedy pimples, but they are also often used in aftershave products.
For example, tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial properties, which help lower inflammation and fight breakouts.
It can potentially heal flare-ups or skin concerns, which is why you may also find it in aftershave.
Other popular essential oils include lavender and frankincense.
Can Aftershave Treat Breakouts?
Can aftershave effectively help heal breakouts or pimples?
It highly depends on what type of aftershave you have and its ingredients.
For example, alcohol-based aftershaves can be ultra-drying and more effective as a spot treatment.
Additionally, aftershaves with high amounts of glycerin may be able to soothe the face and provide excess hydration.
How To Use Aftershave On Pimples
How can you use aftershave on pimples?
First, you’ll want to heavily research an aftershave with nourishing ingredients that won’t irritate your skin type.
Then, once you’re comfortable with your aftershave, you can conduct a patch test.
Depending on the ingredients of your aftershave, you can use it all over the face or as a spot treatment.
However, seeing any changes in pimples or acne may take time if you plan to treat them with aftershave.
Patch Test
You’ll want to patch test any product that can potentially treat pimples.
It can be challenging to tell how you will react to a product, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Sometimes fragrances, alcohols, and essential oils can trigger irritation.
A patch test will tell you if you’re sensitive to a product or if you can safely use it on your face.
After Cleansing
Do you plan to use aftershave as a treatment for acne?
It’s best to use it after cleansing your skin.
Washing your face with a gentle but effective cleanser will ensure you have a clean canvas for your aftershave.
You can gently pat the aftershave onto the skin or all over the face until it’s fully absorbed.
Then, you can continue with the rest of your skincare routine.
You can slowly incorporate it into your routine a few times a week.
As A Spot Treatment
It’s best to use aftershave as a spot treatment if the formula is extremely drying.
Alcohol-based aftershave can be too harsh to use all over the face.
However, you can use it as a spot treatment to heal the areas that need it the most.
Spot treatments aren’t an everyday product. But, like an exfoliator, you can use spot treatments 2-3 times a week.
Also, ensure you are nourishing your skin daily with moisturiser and SPF.
Post-Shave Soother
Lastly, you can use aftershave simply as an aftershave.
You can follow the brand’s directions to ensure you get the most out of your aftershave.
Side Effects Of Using Aftershave To Treat Pimples
Even aftershave can have its side effects.
For example, some aftershaves are way harsher and contain more sensitising ingredients.
So it’s crucial to double-check the labels if your skin is sensitive.
Additionally, you may want to avoid using aftershave every day.
Some common side effects of aftershave include irritated skin, a weakened skin barrier, or overly dry skin.
Overly Dry Skin
Common ingredients in aftershaves, like alcohol and witch hazel, can potentially dry out pimples.
However, they can also increase dryness for the rest of your skin.
As a result, overusing aftershave can lead to tight, flaky, and overly dry skin.
This side effect will ignite if not followed by a healthy skincare routine.
You can also switch to using aftershave as a spot treatment instead.
Unbalanced Skin Barrier
Frequent use of aftershave can disrupt the skin’s pH balance and compromise the skin’s barrier function.
This can happen when applying alcohol-based aftershave with no supplemental products. Instead, try opting for an aftershave high in glycerin.
Glycerin-based aftershaves can help replenish moisture and hydration in the skin.
However, also limit how often you use aftershave weekly.
Irritation
You may notice an overall increase in skin irritation.
For example, aftershave can even heighten breakouts and pimples, increase redness, or inflame pores.
This may indicate that an ingredient in aftershave is not compatible with your skin type.
It’s crucial to use aftershave sparingly, especially those that are alcohol-based.
Also, ensure you have a daily hydrating skin regimen.
What To Look For In Aftershave
How can you pick the right aftershave?
Understanding your skin type and needs is crucial for selecting the right products.
For example, witch hazel is a common ingredient in aftershave that may benefit oilier skin more than sensitive skin.
Analysing the ingredients list will ensure you have the right product.
You can also consult a dermatologist or conduct a patch test to determine the best course of action.
Witch Hazel
We’ve mentioned how witch hazel is a common component in skincare and aftershave.
However, witch hazel has had a bad reputation for being overly harsh and ineffective.
However, when used within the formula and in the correct amounts, it can help with pimples.
Witch hazel may feel drying, so it can help oilier skin types.
Additionally, oily/acne-prone skin types need to moisturise and protect their skin to benefit from witch hazel fully.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is essential for radiant skin and can even be found in your aftershave.
Additionally, vitamin E will provide soothing and nourishing properties that may help balance out any drying components in your aftershave.
Glycerin
Another great option is to choose an aftershave with glycerin.
Glycerin is a humectant and can potentially help treat pimples within your aftershave.
Additionally, it will keep the skin hydrated and trap moisture in the outer layer of the skin.
Adequate hydration can reduce sebum production and lower the rate of breakouts.
It’s also less drying and irritating than other aftershave ingredients.
Who Should Avoid Using Aftershave On Pimples?
Aftershave isn’t the end-all, be-all treatment for acne, and not everyone will have a great experience.
Unfortunately, aftershave is not formulated to heal pimples, even if it may have some acne-fighting components.
Additionally, everyone’s skin reacts differently, so some individuals may find that their aftershave helps improve the appearance of their skin.
However, who should avoid using aftershave to treat breakouts?
Sensitive Skin
Those with reactive, sensitive, or vulnerable skin types may want to avoid aftershave.
Aftershave can contain a range of harsh ingredients, including alcohol and fragrances, that can hurt the skin.
It’s best for sensitive skin to slowly test aftershave or avoid it altogether and use skincare specifically designed for sensitive skin.
Intense Skin Conditions
Anyone with intense skin conditions like cystic acne, eczema, or psoriasis may not benefit from using aftershave on pimples.
These intense skin conditions require medical attention or the assistance of a dermatologist to receive proper treatment.
Some conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, are unlikely to improve with the use of aftershave.
Therefore, it can be beneficial to avoid aftershave altogether for those with acne.
Aftershave Alternatives
Are there any alternatives to aftershave?
You may find that simple, stand-alone ingredients can work as an aftershave and heal your skin.
The skin is often irritated after shaving, so it needs nourishment.
However, you can also reach for a simple component rather than aftershave and still keep the skin clear.
Popular alternatives include aloe vera, coconut oil, and glycerin.
Aloe Vera
When you think of skin-soothing, what’s the first ingredient that comes to mind?
It’s most likely aloe vera.
Aloe vera is renowned for its ultra-healing properties, which can help alleviate sunburns, and it can also serve as an effective aftershave.
It can keep the skin hydrated and healthy, potentially reducing the occurrence of pimple breakouts.
Aloe vera gel is also accessible, affordable, and effective.
Coconut Oil
Another versatile product is coconut oil.
It can replace the aftershave or even your shaving cream.
Coconut oil can provide an extra layer of hydration to the skin, soothing razor burns and dry patches.
Additionally, it can potentially maintain the integrity of the moisture barrier.
Even if you’re not a fan of coconut oil as an aftershave, you can use it for a plethora of other purposes.
Glycerin
Did you know you can purchase glycerin on its own?
Glycerin can be found in aftershave, but for all the great benefits this humectant offers, try using it by itself.
It provides hydration, locks in moisture, and soothes the skin.
Retaining a healthy skin barrier can help you reduce pimple breakouts.
Should You Use Aftershave To Heal Acne?
You may attempt to use aftershave on acne, but it can take time to see results.
Alcohol-based aftershaves are better as a spot treatment to avoid irritation, while Glycerin-based aftershaves can offer more nourishment.
Try to use aftershave 1-3 times a week to avoid sensitising the skin.
Additionally, ensure you have an effective daily skincare routine to fully benefit from your aftershave acne treatment.
Consult A Dermatologist
Before using aftershave on pimples, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist.
A dermatologist can help you avoid any skin mishaps and create a personalised routine tailored to your skin’s specific needs.
They can also advise you on your aftershave journey, what to look out for, and any alternatives.
Takeaway
Aftershave may help alleviate your pimples, depending on a few factors.
Choosing the correct type of aftershave for your skin type is crucial, and integrating it into your regimen accordingly.
Aftershave can contain ingredients that help combat acne, such as witch hazel, glycerin, or alcohol.
However, always conduct a patch test or consult a dermatologist before incorporating aftershave into your pimple-healing regimen.
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