Mens aftershave, in today’s form, is typically either a lotion or a gel. Aftershaves are commonly used by men for their antiseptic properties immediately after shaving to prevent mild infections such as shaving rash. Aftershave’s antiseptic properties derive from the fact that the solvent used in them in the majority of cases is alcohol. However whilst this is considered by some as a must, the scent or aroma of aftershaves is another reason for their application.
Predominantly all contemporary aftershaves are composed of some sort of perfume. It doesn’t matter if it is a cheap own brand aftershave purchased from a discount chemist or an expensive designer label brand. For the manufacturers of mens aftershave the smell is the dominating characteristic as it is this distinguishing component that most people use when deciding whether to purchase. The aromatics used and their concentration within the finished product also greatly govern the final retail price. Fashion designers such as Paul Smith, Giorio Armani, Ted Lapidus, Burberry and Versace spend a large amount of time and effort developing scents and testing them before releasing them on the market under their name.
Together with the above, contemporary aftershaves typically contain moisturisers. Whereas 20 years ago men might have received a raised eyebrow for using a moisturiser, the use of a moisturiser as part of ones daily grooming routine is now noraml. A moisturiser incorporated into an aftershave is beneficial as it prevents the further removal of natural oils after shaving which can occur with a solely alcohol based product. Whilst the aftershave may be departing away from it’s original intended purpose the benefits are real and your skin will feel smoother.
Lastly, in order to persuade us to purchase a particular brand, designer perfumes and aftershaves are elaborately packaged. In our hearts we know that this has no effect on the contents. However there is something about beautifully designed packaging. For example the bottle and ‘tin can’ outer packaging of Jean Paul Gautier’s Le Male Aftershave not only looks good in any bathroom, but can be readily identified on the shelves of any high street store.
Some shoppers may discriminate between aftershaves that based on their perfume and there personal preference while others will make their decision on what their peers wear On the amusing side, some will be influenced by the one based on the packaging. Whichever type of consumer you are you should consider experimenting with new fragrances so that you can find a selection for all occasions you are happy with.