A/S and Balm

ELJAY · Post by **ELJAY** » Sun Mar 01, 2009 10:30 am

For those of you gents that use an aftershave and balm after every shave, which one do you apply first? I've been using the balm first, then the A/S. Does it really make a difference or is it personal preference?

Thanks.

sebell · Post by **sebell** » Sun Mar 01, 2009 12:49 pm

Although I don't typically use both, you should apply
the aftershave first. There is some redundancy here
between the balm and the splash, but the splash is
an astringent (tightens the pores) and an antiseptic.
The balm will have some of the same properties, but
may also be quite moisturizing.

May I ask why you are applying both?

- Scott

infotech · Post by **infotech** » Sun Mar 01, 2009 1:01 pm

Sometimes I apply both. The aftershave first and then the balm if needed, or if it's especially cold outside. I use both because I like the aftershave splash burn and cooling effect and I like the balm moisturizing and soothing effect.

KevinBoatang · Post by **KevinBoatang** » Sun Mar 01, 2009 2:09 pm

Never do.

I use a balm (brave soldier at the moment) that is both. If it's a smell you want then just apply is either side of the neck. After it has soaked in aI put a moisturiser on as I get dry skin (bless)

Are you using both because the aftershave burns and the balm calms it down, or is it a moisture thing?

ELJAY · Post by **ELJAY** » Tue Mar 03, 2009 8:41 pm

Thanks, gents.

Two reasons--added protection and depending on what A/S I use, scent.

Shave4Fun · Post by **Shave4Fun** » Thu Mar 19, 2009 10:50 am

In order to get the full benefit of an aftershave, i.e. to "brace" my skin, I use it first, then the balm.

sandiegodan · Post by **sandiegodan** » Fri Mar 20, 2009 4:09 pm

This may be a stupid question, but isn't it better just to apply a toner to help close up the pores, followed by a face lotion to moisturize?

For scent you would then use a cologne...

what is the purpose in even using a balm or aftershave?

teabag · Post by **teabag** » Fri Mar 20, 2009 5:53 pm

Up until around 6 or 7 years ago I used A/S then changed to Balms for a while but I found them to be overly greasy. Since I discovered Skin Food I use nothing else. I find it to be extremely gentle, no greasy residue and best of all a blob approximately the size of a 5p coin is all that is needed to spread across the shaved area so a 100ml bottle lasts well over 12 months.

jbc · Post by **jbc** » Thu Mar 26, 2009 6:49 am

The yellow jacket bees love balm on me so I don't wear it.

gsgo · Post by **gsgo** » Thu Mar 26, 2009 7:10 am

Splash first then balm when needed.

This fall and winter I have been using both when needed but during the summer months I usually get by with just a splash. I use any balm sparingly as I like to keep it on the light side.

fatcity · Post by **fatcity** » Sat Mar 28, 2009 9:26 pm

Wow. I had never contemplated using both.

Always figured it was one or the other. Dry skin = balm. Otherwise, splash.

You are turning my brain into mush.

Or perhaps you are a plant by the vile After Shave Industry, doubling sales!