What makes more sense? You spending time searching for and evaluating the best smelling aftershave. Or me, as a professional reviewer, doing the same. The latter seems like a more logical decision. So why not leave it all up to me! All you have to do here is read through.
Now let me tell you that wanting to smell good is only natural. And common, as a matter of fact! So let’s get on with it, shall we?
Best Smelling Aftershave: Top 10 Picks
You want to smell great, right? But it’s not that easy picking the best smelling aftershave. The same applies when trying to impress a woman. So how about making the task a little bit easier? The 10 options reviewed below might just do the trick.
Name | Our Rating | Type | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
#1 Editor’s Choice | Splash | 3.4 fluid ounces | |
#2 | Splash | 6 fluid ounces | |
#3 | Splash | 4 fluid ounces | |
#4 | Balm | 3.4 fluid ounces | |
#5 | Splash | 4 fluid ounces | |
#6 | Splash | 8 fluid ounces | |
#7 | Balm | 4 fluid ounces | |
#8 | Balm | 3.4 fluid ounces | |
#9 | Balm | 3.3 fluid ounces | |
#10 | Balm | 3.3 fluid ounces |
* All links above will take you to the latest prices on Amazon.com or you can read our in-depth smelling aftershave reviews below.
#1 Proraso After Shave Lotion – Editor’s Choice
The Proraso After Shave Lotion has emerged as the winner. Cause it’s the perfect old-school-meets-modern-demands kind of a deal. Every application feels crisp, refreshing, and full of the classic scent you crave after shaving. And such a combination is hard to come by.
The Italian company, Proraso has been around for generations. And that too among the top contenders! They manufacture some of the best innovative professional, high-quality products. Much like the Proraso After Shave Lotion, the best smelling aftershave.
It’s a toning and refreshing splash formula. That completes your shaving ritual by toning and cooling down your skin after using the razor. But let’s get into more specific details.
The Proraso After Shave Lotion consists of witch hazel, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. What does witch hazel do? It stimulates skin healing and reduces inflammation. What does menthol do? It revitalizes your skin with the much-needed cooling sensation. And as for eucalyptus oil, this solely purifies.
Now here’s something that you might appreciate the most if you have skin sensitivities. The Proraso After Shave Lotion has nil parabens content. Along with no mineral oils, silicones, phthalates, or artificial colors either!
Needless to say, the Proraso After Shave Lotion offers an invigorating and pleasant effect. One that is suitable for any skin type!
Some aftershaves work like magic. And, fortunately, the Proraso After Shave Lotion is one of them. Raise your expectations here as it not only is packed with natural fragrance. But the splash solution also closes your pores and invigorates the skin.
But it’s disappointing when the scent disappears quickly, isn’t it? So in that department, the Proraso After Shave Lotion is a bit weak.
Pros
Cons
#2 Clubman After Shave Lotion – Best for a Traditional Barbershop Experience
What is it about the Clubman After Shave Lotion that appeals to most consumers? It’s the best smelling aftershave for many reasons. And not just because the infusion of ingredients gives off a suave and masculine fragrance! So let’s get to know more below.
The Clubman After Shave Lotion cools and exhilarates. Like no other splash product. When it comes to soothing tender skin, not all aftershaves are equal. Particularly the good smelling ones! But, fortunately, I cannot say the same here. This formula has the ability to heal both major and minor razor mishaps.
Even though it has some alcohol content, you don’t need to worry about dryness or breakouts. And the scent is the best part.
Do you remember going to your local barbershop as a kid with your father or grandfather? Or when you yourself were younger?
That distinct smell of hair tonic, shaving soap, and aftershave gives rise to nostalgia. If it does, then you might love what the Clubman After Shave Lotion has in store for you.
There are many aftershaves on the current market. But not all of them have a unique, enjoyable fragrance. So if you want to get your hands on one that’s universally wonderful, here it is. The Clubman After Shave Lotion is quite refreshing. Without yielding an overpowering masculine smell!
Always transfer the aftershave into a glass bottle if it comes in a plastic one. And that’s because the latter adds an unpleasant plastic-type smell to the liquid.
Pros
Cons
#3 Calvin Klein OBSESSION for Men After Shave – Best for Night outs and Weekends
Now here’s a creation by Calvin Klein, which means it’s the costliest by far. The Calvin Klein OBSESSION for Men After Shave is yet another splash version. That moisturizes freshly shaven skin. While also leaving a unique scent that takes long to wear off!
If I tell you that it’s a non-alcoholic aftershave, would that make you happy? And would you breathe a sigh of relief? I hope so! Cause the Calvin Klein OBSESSION for Men After Shave does have zero alcohol content. This means the formula is perfect when it comes to soothing your skin.
What else is worth noting? You can use the Calvin Klein aftershave on a daily basis as well. Hence, the word OBESESSION added to the title. It doesn’t cause any sort of skin irritation. At the same time, the product offers generous sweat protection too.
There’s no other Calvin Klein aftershave better than this one. There’s absolutely no doubt about that.
The fragrance is such that it improves post-application. What I mean to say is that you can totally expect this aftershave to smell even better after it has spent a few hours on the face. And that does say a lot about how effective the product really is.
There’s nothing wrong with the aftershave actually. It’s the bottle that’s flawed. The mouth of the glass bottle is not wide enough. So you have to be patient while the liquid trickles out slowly.
Pros
Cons
#4 Proraso After Shave Balm – Best Smelling Aftershave Balm
Proraso is making a second appearance on my list of the best smelling aftershave. The first was an aftershave splash. And this one’s an aftershave balm. So it’s only natural to assume that the ingredients are different.
The Proraso After Shave Balm is packed with aloe vera and vitamin E. The former does an excellent job of soothing your skin. As for the latter, you probably know that it helps in repairing damaged skin. Along with protecting the skin as well!
Then there’s enough licorice extract content too. This component goes a long way in calming the surface. That is eliminating irritation and redness.
What’s even better is that the Proraso After Shave Balm is free of alcohol. It has a creamy texture. Despite that, the product doesn’t leave the skin too greasy post-application. Unlike other aftershave balms!
As for the fragrance, this item is perfect for sensitive and dry skin. The scent is more like a classic, understated musk. The kind that doesn’t fade quickly! So if you decide to layer it with cologne, you can do that as well.
But it’s the moisturizing properties of the balm that many men go for. And chances are you might too. All thanks to the presence of licorice extract in here.
The Proraso After Shave Balm is the stuff that actually works. When shaving with either a straight edge razor or double edge razor. The balm greatly reduces skin irritation often accompanied by shaving. At the same time, the herb fragrance it leaves on the skin is more soothing than overpowering.
But here’s a common problem with aftershave balms. They are oily. And so is this one.
Pros
Cons
#5 Bay Rum Aftershave Splash for Men – Best Smelling Aftershave for Vegans
If natural is the only way you prefer, then you’re bound to fall in love with this product. It’s called the Bay Rum Aftershave Splash for Men. And it has no artificial colors, synthetic chemicals, or GMOs.
Barberry Coast, its manufacturer, is responsible for bringing many such all-natural products to the table. That offer various health benefits, environmental friendliness, and superior performance.
Splashes like these are an ideal choice for normal and oily skin. It’s the alcohol content in it that makes this possible. The alcohol evaporates skin moisture. In fact, it also balances out the protective oils. And this is great for sensitive skin too.
So what are the key ingredients? There’re glycerin and bay oil. The first one is an excellent moisturizer. And the second component offers remarkable antibiotic and antiseptic properties. This means your shaving cuts are well taken care of.
And about the fragrance, it’s got the classic bay rum scent. That’s cinnamon, wood, rum, and orange. Among other dominating and fading notes!
So if you’re looking for something masculine, natural, and moisturizing, here’s your pick.
The Bay Rum Aftershave Splash is more than just a good fragrance. The formula offers a cool, refreshing, and soothing effect. The smell is full yet well-balanced.
Bottom line is that this natural product is the most suitable for a sensitive nasal passage and skin.
Here’s what lies on the other side of the coin. The Bay Rum Aftershave Splash might not pair up well with your existing cologne. And that’s because it’s packed with a unique set of aromatic ingredients.
Pros
Cons
#6 Lucky Tiger After Shave and Face Tonic – Best Alcohol-free Aftershave
Not all aftershaves have alcohol in them. And that just means that these options work best for dry skin. But not all such products are worth your money. But here’s one that actually is. It’s called the Lucky Tiger After Shave and Face Tonic.
The mixture contains witch hazel, chamomile, borage oil, and aloe vera. There are more ingredients. But I have listed the ones that really make a difference.
Aloe vera, as you already know, soothes your skin like no other. Witch hazel is an astringent that tones and tightens. Chamomile relieves irritation simply by pacifying the shaved surface. And borage oil promotes skin protection, hydration, and repair. What more could you ask for, right!
The scent is quite citrus-like. With a touch of tangerine, grapefruit, and orange!
But if you’re seriously taking this product into consideration, buy it for the alcohol-free content. Cause that’s the best part!
There are very few aftershaves out there that deeply condition the skin. And the fact that this one has no alcohol in it says a lot about its moisturizing nature.
However, here’s the negative feedback. The refreshing citrusy fragrance doesn’t remain for too long after use.
Pros
Cons
#7 Baxter of California After Shave Balm – Best Smelling Aftershave for Acne-prone Skin
This review should help you understand why so many men are so fond of products manufactured by Baxter of California. Especially the Baxter of California After Shave Balm!
It’s an alcohol-free solution packed in a tube. This means it’s easy to squeeze out. Unlike glass bottles that can get slightly cumbersome to deal with.
Now how about the content of natural ingredients present in here? There’re tea tree oil and aloe vera. Along with menthol and glycerin! All four components heal, nourish, and soothe the skin in a natural manner. So if you have sensitive skin, there’s nothing to worry about.
Tea tree is for preventing acne or shaving rash. Aloe vera is for soothing your skin. Glycerin is for naturally moisturizing it. And menthol is for that refreshing, cool aftershave effect. But tea tree is the biggest takeaway. As it prevents the balm from causing breakouts!
In all, the Baxter of California After Shave Balm hydrates the driest skin cells. And calms the most sensitive skin! And there’s a subtle scent to it that you might appreciate with cologne.
Let me tell you why this might become your favorite post-shaving product. The Baxter of California After Shave Balm has a unique scent. It’s a soothing formula with zero alcohol burn. On top of that, the skin feels conditioned without feeling greasy or oily.
Not all aftershave balms are created equal after all. And the proof is that this one has a comparatively shorter-lasting fragrance.
Pros
Cons
#8 Truefitt & Hill Aftershave Balm – Best for Preventing Infection and Inflammation
Aren’t the British companies popular for manufacturing products of the highest quality? So why would Truefitt & Hill be any different? And why would their Truefitt& Hill Aftershave Balm be an exception!
So what does the infusion consists of? There’s aloe vera, glycerin, and lanolin. You’ve heard of the first two. But lanolin is new, isn’t it? No wonder this best smelling aftershave has the ability to prevent infection and inflammation. That’s because lanolin is an ingredient that boosts acid mantle. Along with safeguarding your skin against pollutants!
As for glycerin, it’s perfect for naturally moisturizing the face. And aloe vera takes care of the refreshing, cool aftershave effect.
Let me also tell you that the Truefitt & Hill Aftershave Balm contains traces of alcohol. With no parabens! So it’s suitable for dry and sensitive skin. Here’s another piece of great news. The formula has fantastic waterproofing properties. So you can put it on even when the climate is cold and wet.
In all, there’s more than just the woody, spicy scent to look forward to here. Just keep that in mind.
When an aftershave balm nourishes, soothes, and hydrates, what does that mean? This can only mean one thing. You shouldn’t hesitate to spend your money on such a high-quality and effective product.
Breathe a sigh of relief. Cause there’s nothing wrong with the balm. The real problem lies with the bottle pump. You might have to push it multiple times to get enough aftershave for your face.
Pros
Cons
#9 NIVEA FOR MEN Energy Double Action Balm – Best for Budget-Friendly Consumers
It’s true that there are better aftershaves than Nivea out there. But the truth of the matter is that many men swear by the performance of Nivea products. Particularly the NIVEA FOR MEN Energy Double Action Balm! Plus, it’s an affordable option. So it’s hard to find such a decent aftershave at such a price.
It’s an ideal pick for you if you have normal skin. The primary ingredients include coenzyme Q10 and caffeine. These are new on the list, right? So what do they do? The former helps in slowing down the process of aging. As for caffeine, it has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It can make the skin look toned and tight. The outcome of which is a fresh looking face.
And what about the fragrance? The scent is a classic one.
In the end, here’s what I would like to say. The NIVEA FOR MEN Energy Double Action Balm leaves your skin feeling refreshed and healthy. And you don’t even have to shell out big bucks to achieve that.
It’s not a burn-blasting type of a balm. Rather the mixture is very comforting and smooth. With a pleasant citrus-like aftershave smell!
Unfortunately, the balm contains synthesized chemicals and parabens. So you should stay away from it if you have dry or sensitive skin.
Pros
Cons
#10 Geo F. Trumper Limes Skin Food – Best for any skin type
Let me be honest with you. The Geo F. Trumper Limes Skin Food is not an aftershave per se. But you can use the product prior to and post shaving. That’s because many men already do, and they love it.
What you’re looking at is a versatile facial protectant and moisturizer. The formula consists of a unique combination of glycerin and gum. That seals your skin immediately after exfoliation. Exfoliation is the outcome of shaving of course!
The balm doesn’t clog pores or make the face look greasy. Unlike other aftershave-specific balms on the current market! But you should know that it’s packed with a little bit of alcohol. Even so, you can use it on your dry skin. If you have dry skin that is!
The main components present in here are citronellol and lemon peel. Apart from moisturizing glycerin and refreshing menthol! Citronellol offers insect repellant advantages. This is very useful if you have skin that reacts severely to bites. And the second ingredient boosts acid mantle. And kills all the unwanted bacteria!
So don’t, even for a split second, doubt the performance of the Geo F. Trumper Limes Skin Food. As a 100% effective aftershave balm!
This product is incredibly soothing as well as moisturizing. And it doesn’t matter what type of skin you have. Cause the Geo F. Trumper Limes Skin Food works for all.
When it comes to aftershaves, some men prefer fragrances that are overpowering. While the others don’t mind a subtle scent! And the Geo F. Trumper Limes Skin Food falls in the latter category.
Pros
Cons
Best Smelling Aftershave: Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide
Photo credit: sharpologist.com
Now that you know what to buy, you think the hard part is over? Well, to be honest, you’re halfway there. If you want to pick the best smelling aftershave, you have to know and understand everything about the product. So let’s do that below.
Types of Aftershave
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It’s the conventional type of aftershave, the splash version. And it has been a part of men’s grooming for many decades. Aftershave splashes have a liquid-like feeling with a large water content.
That means they spread quite easily over your skin. This is where the term “splash” comes from. You simply splash the thing onto your chin and cheeks post-shaving.
An aftershave splash is packed with a blend of different substances. Toners that eliminate debris, dirt, and oil. Astringents are responsible for tightening the skin. Hydrosols are aromatic plant parts that add the nice smell to the product.
But aftershave splashes contain alcohol. Apart from being antiseptic in nature, this also means that the solution stings for a few seconds.
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You can say that balms are modern aftershave products. They don’t go way back but, even so, aftershave balms are considered to be very effective. And that’s because the balm version is perfect for nearly all skin types.
The texture, in this case, is very creamy and soft. Unlike splashes! So expect an aftershave balm to be more comforting and much calmer. You don’t splash it over the face. Instead, you rub the balm on the shaved areas.
In terms of moisturization, balms are relatively heavier. Plus, they have zero alcohol content.
The market also offers aftershave gels, lotions, and creams. Truth be told, these just fall under the category of aftershave balms.
Manufacturers like to express their products by using terms like lotions and creams. When all they’re trying to do is make the particular product or collection look unique.
What to Take Into Account? (According to skin type)
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Dry Skin
When rough, flaky skin is what you got, the chances of it peeling or looking dull are quite high. With that in place, don’t forget to give importance to the following factors.
Moisturizing Agents
At such times, the best smelling aftershave should also be the best moisturizing aftershave. Packed with natural oils to restore hydration!
Alcohol Content
Whatever you decide to buy, make sure that it doesn’t have any alcohol. And that’s because alcohol is a diuretic. In simple words, it causes the body to expel large amounts of water.
So if your skin type is dry, take the aftershave’s alcohol content into consideration. I would suggest picking a product with zero alcohol in it.
Astringents
These offer healing properties. They help in repairing your skin cells. Astringents appear in aftershaves quite naturally to heal your shaving cuts.
But that sounds like a good thing, doesn’t it? Well, astringents generally are good for the skin. However, when that skin is dry, they tend to inflame it. The outcome of which is skin irritation.
Oily Skin
If you can spot that sheen only a few minutes after washing your face, it means you have oily skin. When the skin is oily, the likelihood of blackheads and visible pores increases. So if that’s what your picture looks like, here’s what you need to take into account.
Alcohol Content
For oily skin, alcohol present in the aftershave is not a problem. The solution has the ability to dry out most of that oil. Reducing your natural glossy finish!
So the best smelling aftershave in the form of a toning alcohol-containing splash is perfect.
Moisturizing Agents
You might think it’s counterproductive buying an aftershave with moisturizing agents. But you forget that alcohol eliminates oil. So your skin demands hydration for balance at such times.
Pay attention to glycerin as it ranks as an important ingredient in aftershave products. Glycerin replenishes and repairs dehydrated cells of the skin.
So don’t underestimate the power of a good moisturizing aftershave. Provided that it contains alcohol too!
Sensitive Skin
Itchy skin even after washing the face is suggestive of sensitivities. Other signs include rashes, bumps, and the stinging sensation. In that light, it’s time to find out what’s suitable.
Alcohol Content
Choose the best smelling aftershave with a limited content of alcohol. Anything more than just mild might cause irritation.
Parabens
Here’s another component you should be avoiding. Parabens are preservatives, the synthesized kind. They are present in cosmetics to rule out the formation of bacteria. But the drawback here is that they remove both good and bad bacteria.
Parabens are aggressive in nature. So if you have sensitive skin, it’s best to stay away from them.
Scent
Normally, I wouldn’t go for the best smelling aftershave if I had sensitive skin. And that’s because the elements responsible for creating the fragrance are nothing but irritants. So how about selecting an unscented version for a change!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there any difference between an aftershave and a cologne?
Aftershaves are not lightweight colognes. In fact, the latter is more than that. An aftershave is like an astringent. It cleans the pores and removes all bacteria. Before sealing the pores! On the other hand, cologne is purely aesthetic. Men use it mainly to delight their senses.
Now you already know that aftershaves come in splash and balm version. The former is an ideal choice for those with acne-prone or oily skin. As for the latter, it’s best for men with dry skin.
Needless to say, an aftershave is very practical. It offers a broad range of scents. If your choice of cologne comes with an aftershave, you can layer the cologne for longer lasting results. Mixing different colognes with aftershaves is a fun idea. Typically, an aftershave doesn’t last for more than 1-2 hours. So feel free to combine the two to explore the interaction between the smells.
2. How do I use aftershave?
So you’ve managed to pick up the best smelling aftershave. And not just a misnamed, over-diluted bottle that contains only scented water. That means your shaving arsenal has received an upgrade.
But maybe you don’t know the correct way to use aftershave. In that case, here are the instructions:
How to Apply Aftershave?
Now the Decision Is Yours to Make!
My Choice: Proraso After Shave Lotion
The final choice entirely depends on your personal needs and preferences. But my top selection stays the same. It’s the Proraso After Shave Lotion. And it beats the others because this splash version tones, refreshes, and cools the skin like no other. Perfect for any man’s shaving ritual!
It’s packed with witch hazel to promote skin healing. Along with revitalizing menthol and purifying eucalyptus oil! So for the best smelling aftershave with natural ingredients, this one remains unparalleled on my list.
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