22 Best aftershaves for sensitive skin (2023)

If you’re someone with sensitive skin prone to inflammation, or have had reactions to the chemicals in some skincare products, you’ll know all too well the trials of a close shave. Red, unhappy skin and ingrown hairs, made infinitely worse by cologne applied straight away, or an aftershave that isn’t designed to soothe and relieve the sting. Irritated facial skin is more than just uncomfortable; it can affect your self confidence, worsen your mood, and bring down your whole day, but it doesn’t have to.

When aftershaves were first formulated, their primary purpose was to disinfect any cuts that might have resulted from a bad shave, so the main ingredient was alcohol. Yeowch! Not only does alcohol burn, it also severely dries out the skin, so using it day after day would not have been doing anyone any favors. Thankfully the world of men’s skincare has improved in leaps and bounds since then, with the invention of products that are tailored to the full spectrum of diverse and unique skin types.

Great news! This means that you don’t have to carry on living in discomfort if the products you’re using tend to harm more than heal. And if you’re not using an aftershave at all - simply spritzing on your cologne or rubbing in moisturizer and gritting your teeth - then allow us to introduce you to a small list of goodies that will change your life. Seriously. A good quality aftershave that’s carefully crafted for men with sensitive skin will soothe irritation, exfoliate pores, prevent ingrown hairs, and protect your skin.

You don’t even have to do the research - we’ve done it for you. We’ve whittled the wide selection down to 22 of the best aftershaves for sensitive skin available today, with concise descriptions of each so that you can find what’s perfect for you. Say goodbye to the pain and discomfort of a razor and say hello to blissfully comfortable skin, a glowing healthy complexion, and the best shave you’ve ever had.

What are you waiting for?

1. Blu Atlas Aftershave

Coming in at a clear number one on our list of the best aftershaves for sensitive skin is Blu Atlas’ Aftershave. Blu Atlas is at the forefront of the modern men’s skincare industry, boasting superior quality at affordable prices with zero cost to your health or to the environment.

Their aftershave is no exception, vegan with all-natural ingredients, it contains no artificial fragrances and is entirely free of parabens, sulphates, and phthalates. Aftershave, like every one of Blu Atlas’ products, is dermatologically tested for safety and efficacy, and contains no active ingredients - meaning that it can in most cases be safely used in conjunction with other skincare products and medications.

The core ingredients of Blu Atlas’ Aftershave are carefully chosen to soothe, nourish, and moisturize. Shea butter has a high fatty acid content that is easy for the skin to absorb, providing effective hydration without leaving your face with an oily sheen. Aloe leaf also serves as a natural moisturizer and contains the healthy antioxidants vitamins A, C, and E. Rose water is also rich in vitamin C, as well as phenolics, which give it its well-known anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

This is a product expertly crafted to heal, hydrate, and relieve skin damaged by the roughness of shaving. Gently pat your face dry after shaving and rinsing, then apply a thin layer of aftershave to your face and neck to soothe and nourish. Get your hands on some Blu Atlas and start your days with fresher, healthier, and happier skin.

2. Rituals’ The Ritual of Samurai After Shave

Rituals is a brand that embraces the ritualistic nature of our morning routine, providing high quality collections of products for each step in the process, so that you can tweak your own personal ritual to perfection. This aftershave is from The Ritual of Samurai line, taking inspiration and ingredients from traditional Japanese culture. It is a lightweight formula that revitalizes, invigorates, and provides instant relief to irritated post-shave skin.

With key ingredients of natural basil, red shiso, and rice bran oil, The Ritual of Samurai After Shave is expertly crafted to soothe the skin and ease any scrapes or stings that can result from a close shave. With natural ingredients and a no-alcohol formula, this high quality aftershave can be used on any skin type, but is especially ideal for those with sensitive skin. Unleash your inner warrior with this soothing aftershave from Rituals.

3. Harry’s Post-Shave Balm

Harry’s is a well-established brand for the refined gentleman, with the mission of improving the lives of men all over the world by offering high quality skincare solutions at fair prices. Designed to calm, balance, and soothe, their post-shave balm serves to rebalance the natural pH of the skin after a rigorous shave. It has a wonderfully cool feel and is quick drying, meaning that it won’t leave your skin looking or feeling shiny like some moisturizers and aftershaves can.

Natural aloe vera and cucumber extract lay the foundations of this excellent shaving balm, lending their innate cooling and moisturizing properties to the formula. In addition to being made of high quality ingredients, Harry’s post-shave balm is also 100% cruelty free, and contains zero parabens and sulphates that can damage your skin over time, making it ideal for those with sensitivities. Available in 1.7 oz or 3 oz bottles, this aftershave is a great solution to your post-shaving needs.

4. The Art of Shaving After-Shave Balm

It’s all in the name: this brand embraces the art that is shaving, providing effective products for every step of your skincare ritual to ensure that you achieve the perfect shave. Their after-shave balm focuses particularly on hydrating and revitalizing the skin, creating a moisture barrier that absorbs easily, leaves skin looking and feeling healthy, and serves as an all-day (up to 8 hours!) moisturizer. A carefully crafted formula of shea butter, grape seed extract, and essential oils, it nourishes and protects without clogging pores, and can even help reduce signs of aging.

While the unscented version of this balm might be best for those with sensitivity to fragrances, The Art of Shaving also offers several scented variations for the gentleman who wants a fresh perfume without the use of a cologne.

Each variation has been clinically and dermatologically tested and is suitable for use on sensitive skin, so you could collect a few different iterations of this excellent after-shave to change up your scent while keeping a formula you know you can trust.

5. Marlowe No. 144 Post Shave Lotion

Marlowe’s No. 144 Post Shave Lotion is a lightweight, vitamin E-enhanced cream that absorbs into the skin quickly and serves to soothe and hydrate, without leaving a shiny sheen. While it is suitable for all skin types, this quality makes it especially perfect for those with skin that tends to become oily. It is also non-comedogenic, meaning that it doesn’t block pores and cause blackheads, resulting in a smoother and healthier skin texture overall.

Willow bark, algae extract, passionflower, and green tea extract make up the key ingredients of this soothing lotion, serving to moisturize and calm shaved skin, while also infusing it with healthy vitamins and antioxidants.

A paraben and phthalate free formula make this product an excellent option for those with sensitive skin, while its cruelty-free production process can keep your conscience clear. At an affordable price, Marlowe’s post-shave lotion is a great addition to our list of the best aftershaves for sensitive skin.

6. Proraso Aftershave Lotion

Proraso is a well-established and long-trusted Italian name in the world of men’s skincare, and this modern take on their age-old aftershave lotion takes all the good facets of the Proraso legacy and fuses them with modern advances. This is a refreshing and revitalizing formula that cools and tones the skin after shaving, suitable for all beard and skin types.

With 98% of ingredients being of natural origin, containing zero parabens, phthalates, silicones, mineral oils, artificial colors, or SLS, and with a vegan-friendly and cruelty free production process, this truly is an aftershave that’s kind to both your skin and to the environment.

Witch hazel is a widely used herb in the beauty industry, as it serves to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Menthol then revitalises and cools the skin, while eucalyptus oil purifies. For a brand you know you can trust, look no further than Proraso’s Aftershave Lotion.

7. Kiehl’s Ultimate Razor Burn & Bump Relief

Kiehl’s is also a household name that has long been well regarded amongst skincare brands. Their ultimate razor burn & bump relief lotion - as you may well guess - targets the sore patches of skin, and irritating ingrown hairs that can result from a clean shave. It provides instant relief to uncomfortable skin and long-term nourishment when used regularly.

Aloe vera rehydrates and soothes, while lipohydroxy acid gently exfoliates to prevent and reduce ingrown hairs. Willow herb extract and vitamin E nurture and calm, resulting in more resilient, happier, healthier skin.

This is a product advertised as safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and is completely paraben free. Kiehl’s also prides themselves on their environmentally responsible formulation, and their commitment to recycling, so this is a brand you can trust to have your back, as well as nature’s.

8. Weleda After Shave Balm

This gentle and cooling After Shave Balm from Weleda is as delicate on the skin as it is effective - that is to say, very. The formula is expertly crafted from materials specially chosen to alleviate and calm the uncomfortable side effects of a clean shave; chamomile soothes while aloe vera cools, and organic jojoba oils, coconut, shea butter, and beeswax hydrate and seal in moisture. The fresh, subtle fragrance of this aftershave is thanks to the presence of aromatic bitter gum of myrrh and natural essential oils.

Weleda’s After Shave Balm is suitable for all skin types, but is designed specifically - and proven through dermatological testing - to be gentle on sensitive skin. Free from synthetic preservatives, fragrances, colorants, or raw materials derived from mineral oils, this is a product that will be good for your skin in the long term, as well as the short. Apply to your face and neck for the perfect calming and smooth finish to a wet or dry shave.

9. Gentleman Jon’s Alum Block

Gentleman Jon’s Alum Block After Shave does exactly as its tagline declares - “fights razor burn!”. This unique and vintage-feeling 3.5 oz block is almost like soap, but is made from 100% potassium alum, a material that provides natural antiseptic and astringent properties that stop bleeding, close pores, and tone skin. Proven to stop razor burn in its tracks, this clever product will leave you with a fresh, toned feeling after every shave.

Not only does this no-frills block of alum do exactly as it claims, it also comes at a very affordable price, and will last months - if not years - if properly used and cared for. Make sure to return it to its plastic case after every use and you’ll find you have a shaving companion that will go the distance.

10. Anthony After Shave Balm

Next up on our list of best aftershaves for sensitive skin is Anthony’s After Shave Balm. This product makes caring for your skin its highest priority, with the objective printed clear on the front of the tube: extinguish the fire. A lightweight and refreshing formula serves to cool the sting of razor burn, and soothe the unhappy skin that can come from a close shave.

Anthony’s strategy is simple: allantoin and aloe vera soothe and hydrate, while natural botanical oils - including rosemary, corn mint, and eucalyptus - cool and refresh. Vitamins A, C, and E leave your skin feeling, and looking, vibrant and healthy. Clean and straight to the point, this aftershave is free of all the nasties: no parabens, phthalates, GMOs, DEA, or triclosan. It’s even free of gluten, and free of cruelty, as well as being allergy and dermatologically tested to be just the good stuff. Mission success!

11. Nuxe Men Multi-Purpose After-Shave Balm

While many products target just one aspect of the post-shave discomfort, such as razor burn or ingrown hairs, Nuxe Men Multi-Purpose After-Shave Balm quashes them all. A master of its trade, this aftershave will soothe irritation, calm razor burn, moisturize skin for 24 hours, and even reduce signs of fatigue and stress. With non-comedogenic properties and 87% natural origin ingredients, this balm has been crafted to suit all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Extracts of oak bark and hornbeam bud, alongside sandalwood, baobab leaf mucilage, araucaria seed, and horse chestnut make up the core ingredients of this aftershave. The result is a revitalizing and intensely hydrating balm, with the added benefit of having a fundamentally masculine, woody, spicy fragrance. Perfect for the gentleman who wants a subtle perfume without the hassle of cologne.

12. Fieldworks’ Face of Danger After Shave Elixir

Introducing Fieldworks’ Face of Danger After Shave Elixir, a two-in-one aftershave and mild cologne that soothes and heals, and also perfumes your skin with the subtle scent of the great outdoors.

The core ingredients of this aftershave elixir are chosen specifically to fortify, and are sourced directly from mother nature herself. Witch hazel is a natural plant extract that serves as a mild astringent, closing your pores to the grime that naturally builds up on your skin over the course of a day.

Aloe vera hydrates, while calendula and nutmeg soothe, and vetiver is a natural antiseptic that also happens to smell deliciously manly. Finally, bentonite lays a powerful foundation, holding these ingredients close to your skin so that they can work their magic.

Splash a little of this restorative elixir over your face and neck to fend off the raw feeling you get after shaving and you’re sure to leave the house refreshed and confident, with the elusive and crisp fragrance of nature on your skin.

13. Aesop Moroccan Neroli Post-Shave Lotion

The Moroccan Neroli Post-Shave Lotion from Aēsop is technically an aftershave, but can be used just as effectively by those without facial hair as those with. It makes for an excellent lightweight hydrator, moisturizing and re-balancing the skin, as well as pacifying post-shave irritation for those of us with beards. Its woody, warm, and delicately spicy aroma is an added bonus.

A calming, restorative blend of ingredients including botanical oils, sandalwood, neroli blossom, and panthenol serve to hydrate, soothe, and fortify your skin for the rest of the day. Its lightweight formulation means that the Moroccan Neroli Post-Shave Lotion is suitable for use on any skin type, including sensitive skin - though those with a very oily complexion may want to avoid it due to its hydrating properties.

This is a skincare product you can trust with your health, and the health of the planet; it is vegan-friendly and all ingredients have a proven record of safety, efficacy, and sustainability.

14. Ursa Major Essential Face Tonic

For those of you with busy lives who want to take care of your skin but can’t justify the energy that goes into a time-consuming skincare routine every morning, Ursa Major’s Essential Face Tonic is for you. This four-in-one tonic cleans, exfoliates, soothes, and hydrates in one versatile and simple step. It removes oil and grime, brightens dull skin, relieves shaving irritation, and moisturizes, all ensuring skin has a clean matte finish with the refreshing medicinal scent of orange, lavender, and fir.

The key healing ingredients are aloe vera, sugarcane (which is a natural source of glycolic acid), green tea (rich in antioxidants), willow bark (a natural source of beta hydroxy acid), birch sap, and sodium hyaluronate - this last one also serves to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles!

What’s more, this wonder tonic is entirely vegan-friendly and cruelty free, and contains zero petrochemicals, SLS, SLES, parabens, synthetic fragrance or color, glycols, silicones, or PEGs. For a total-package product that ticks all the boxes, look no further than Ursa Major’s Essential Face Tonic.

15. Marie Veronique Aftershave Tonic

Presenting somewhat like a medicine bottle from a pharmacy, Aftershave Tonic by Marie Veronique is a skincare product that is thoroughly and comprehensively grounded in science.

While the official information page goes into extensive background detail, we will simply tell you what it does: this aftershave tonic soothes, rehydrates, and prevents post-shave irritation by re-balancing the skin’s microbiome, maintaining proper pH levels, and replacing essential trace minerals. This serves to shield against pathogenic activity and improves the overall barrier function of the skin.

The magic - or rather the science - behind this tonic’s wonderful properties are its ingredients. Cucumber is an emollient and softener which cools the skin, while elderberry botanical extract is touted for its anti-inflammatory, calming, and soothing properties.

Tea tree oil is as effective at combating P. acnes (the major acne causing microbe) as benzyl peroxide, but without the risks of increased sun sensitization and increased skin sensitivity. If you’ll only trust a product that you can see the inner workings of, then Marie Veronique Aftershave Tonic is the one for you.

16. Baxter of California’s Shave Tonic

Baxter of California’s Pre- and Post-Shave Tonic is a versatile and effective spray, tried and tested at the Baxter Finley barber shop in west Hollywood. This tonic is the winner of both the 2016 GQ grooming award and the 2019 UK GQ grooming award for best new shaving product, and we certainly think that it deserves a place in our best 22 aftershaves for sensitive skin, even a few years down the line from those accolades.

Core ingredients of this shave tonic are menthol, essential oils of rosemary, eucalyptus, camphor, and spearmint, vitamins E, D, and A, and aloe vera. We know by now that these make for a product that cools razor burn, prevents ingrown hairs, protects the skin, balances pH, and deeply hydrates. This is a (before and) after shave tonic that revitalises, soothes, and nourishes, and with zero parabens it is very well suited to those with sensitive skin. Pick up a 4 oz bottle of this brilliantly versatile spray today.

17. Fulton & Roark Aftershave Cloths

Here we present a product as unique and different in its presentation as the alum bar from further up the list. These aftershave cloths from Fulton & Roark are individually packaged, pocket-sized face towelettes - a one of a kind in an industry of lotions, balms, and tonics.

This is a quick and easy, convenient solution to post-shave irritation; they can be stored in a pocket or a bag, thrown in the glove-box, kept on your vanity, or even in your desk at work. Tear a packet open and wipe the towelette across your skin - no need for water, no fuss, and zero residue after use.

Infused with good ingredients, these face cloths will keep your skin refreshed and healthy. Witch hazel eliminates oils and fights blemishes, and tea tree oil reduces razor burn and improves complexion while bergamot brings a crisp citrusy fragrance. Eucalyptus acts as an anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal, and sage offers well-established medicinal and restorative qualities. Use these versatile towelettes as a post-gym refresher, and on-the-go cleanser, or a daily oil toner, as well as an aftershave.

18. Bevel Shave Restoring Balm

Bevel is a well-known name in men’s hygiene that is high quality, chic, and affordable. The company founder wanted to provide more shaving skincare options for men with curly beards, meaning Bevel Shave Restoring Balm is specifically formulated to target, eliminate, and prevent ingrown hairs. It’s a solution that will soothe, cool, moisturize, and exfoliate to leave your skin feeling fresh, healthy, and bump free post-shave.

We’re thoroughly familiar by now with the effects of aloe vera, coconut water, witch hazel extract, white & green tea, shea butter, and jojoba oil. Bevel takes these tried and true ingredients and adds salicylic acid and lactic acid to their formula, which takes their shaving balm into an entirely new league when it comes to dealing with ingrown hairs.

More impressively, this product is entirely free of alcohol, parabens, phthalates, artificial fragrances, and SLES. It’s cruelty free, eco friendly, and dermatologically tested to be suitable for sensitive skin. So if you need something to blast away ingrown hairs, especially if you rock a curly beard, then this is the aftershave for you.

19. Dr. Carver’s Miracle Repair Serum

Dr. Carver’s Miracle Repair Serum is exactly what it claims to be: a miracle worker in liquid form. It is a lightweight spritz aftershave designed specifically to combat razor bumps, burns, ingrown hairs, and the redness associated with shaving. While it also improves the skin’s moisture content, this is not its main focus, and it is more suited to sensitive or acne-prone skin types that tend toward oiliness. If you want to give this product a go but you have dry skin, by all means do! Just make sure you apply it underneath a moisturizer.

This is a fragrance and paraben free serum that uses an impressive concentration of hyaluronic acid as its main ingredient. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is proven to provide antioxidant defense against free-radical damage, improve skin moisture content, and reduce inflammation. Other ingredients in this magical blend include barley, oats, white & green tea, pomegranate, and blueberry extracts, resulting in a revitalising, healing serum that really does work miracles.

20. Bulldog Sensitive Aftershave Balm

Bulldog Skincare’s Sensitive Aftershave Balm is made for “freshly shaved sensitive chops”. This fragrance-free, non-sticky, extra gentle formula is guaranteed to leave you feeling soothed and moisturized after a shave, no matter how sensitive your skin.

What’s more is that Bulldog offers a full range of men’s hygiene and shaving products specially designed for sensitive skin. This includes face wash, face scrub, shaving cream, and moisturizer, so you can kit your entire morning ritual out with products that will look after your skin.

This aftershave balm comprises carefully selected man-made ingredients alongside some incredible natural ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of function and gentleness. Baobab seed oil, oat oil, and willow herb are the three building blocks of this pleasant balm, and will leave your skin feeling calm and healed after every shave.

21. Burt’s Bees Soothing Moisturizer + After Shave

For the second to last on our list of best aftershaves for sensitive skin in 2022, we present to you: Burt’s Bees Soothing Moisturizer + After Shave. This is slightly different to the other products we have listed; a nature-powered two-in-one balm designed for the active man, be that out in the wild of the world or in the nitty gritty of everyday life, this aftershave will work as hard as you do. It’s a lightweight, non-greasy lotion that will last all day, no matter the rigors you’re putting your skin through.

Aloe, hemp, and shea butter are the building blocks of this hardy aftershave, providing 24-hour hydration and a protective barrier that the grime of life won’t be able to penetrate. Even better, this is one of the cleanest and greenest items on our list.

Burt’s Bees’ products boast natural ingredients that are responsibly sourced, with a cruelty-free production process, recyclable packaging, and landfill-free, carbon-neutral operation, this is an incredibly consciously crafted product. Embrace the ferocity of nature with this aftershave to protect your skin.

22. Versace Pour Homme After Shave Balm

Most of the aftershave products released by fashion and cologne industry giants don’t make it to this list. They often seem like just another way to extend the collection, without accounting for the impact that their ingredients might have on peoples’ skin, especially those with sensitivities. Versace is definitely an exception to that rule with their Pour Homme After Shave Balm.

This is a repairing and soothing aftershave that delivers comfort and deeply nourishes the skin while also offering the refreshing citrusy and aromatic scent of the captivating Versace Pour Homme line. A thin layer of this balm applied to dry skin after a close shave will alleviate discomfort and leave your face feeling smoother, softer, and healthier.

This aftershave is ideal for the fashion conscious gentleman who values a big brand name and desires a focus on fragrance, while also wanting to look after their sensitive skin.