A favorite among loyalists and newbies alike, Aramis After Shave has proven to be worthy of its cult-favorite status. The liquid formula fuses patchouli, amber and musk with notes of bergamot, cumin and jasmine for an earthy yet refreshing scent that’ll soothe more than just your razor burns (it’s a delight for your senses, too). Plus, its plastic bottle makes it travel-friendly.

Clean your skin: The first step to a good shave that doesn’t involve razor burn is making sure you’re shaving clean skin. Whether you have a beard or stubble, use a mild cleanser to get rid of dirt, oil and grime sitting on your skin. They’re also formulated to encourage your skin tissues to regrow, which ultimately helps protect your skin and strengthen the barrier. Aftershaves can also be formulated with antibacterial ingredients so that if a cut does occur, bacteria won’t find its way inside and cause acne or further irritation. Finally, many people use aftershaves in place of their daily cologne because they impart a lingering scent that lasts all day. PARIS, FRANCE - JUNE 26: A model walks the runway at the Louis Vuitton Spring Summer 2015 fashion ... [+] show during Paris Menswear Fashion Week on June 26, 2014 in Paris, France. (Photo by Catwalking/Getty Images) Getty Images This light, alcohol-free and moisturising After Shave Balm noticeably relaxes just-shaved skin in an instant. An intensely hydrating balm which minimises redness of the skin and heals minor shaving cuts. Leaves behind a hint of Aramis Classic.Aftershave splashes: Aftershave splash is probably what your dad’s dad (and his dad) used. Think of aftershave splashes as you would a toner. They’re more liquid in consistency than lotions and balms, and often contain astringent, disinfecting properties thanks to ingredients like witch hazel. Though they’re fresh and lightly scented, splashes are typically formulated with alcohol (which can irritate the skin and tighten up the pores), so be wary of using such products if you have dry, sensitive skin. Splashes are best used for those with oily skin, as they’re less likely to contribute to the grease (which lotions and balms may do) and instead tone the skin. Ultimately, if you’re a fan of that tingling sensation, a splash is for you. Aloe vera: By far, aloe vera is the best instant skin soother and works to cool the skin after a shave. It also features antiseptic, anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent burns, bumps and scrapes. Many lotion and balm formulas use aloe vera to ease any symptoms of razor burn, so finding a formula should be easy. Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is commonly used in skincare formulas due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties. A centuries-old ingredient that’s used to treat all kinds of wounds and burns, tea tree oil in an aftershave can help clean the skin and prevent razor burn from forming.

Chamomile: Just like your favorite chamomile tea calms you on a stressful day, chamomile in an aftershave poses the same soothing benefits for your skin. Not only does it help with relieving irritation post-shave, but it also encourages wound healing. Jean Paul Gaultier Men's "LE MALE" Soothing Alcohol-Free After Shave Balm Courtesy of Jean Paul Gaultier Aftershaves are the holy grail of soothing inflammation, calming razor bumps and nourishing the skin after a shave. But the process of shaving can still pose some side effects if not done meticulously—you are dragging a sharp blade across your skin, after all. Aside from avoiding dry shaving (that is, shaving without the use of water, creams or lotions), the best way to prevent a razor burn is to nail down two things: your pre-shave process and a high-quality razor. Here’s how to prep your skin before a shave to prevent razor burn: Lavender and mint is always a winning combination, but when you add vanilla to the mix, it goes over the top, creating an aroma that is equal parts fresh, warm and refreshing. That’s just what the folks at Jean Paul Gaultier intended to do with this expertly crafted aftershave balm. Suited for parched skin types, the product effectively evokes that soft, clean feeling your skin craves post-shave. And, if you happen to be a sloppy shaver (hey, we all have our days), rest assured that this aftershave balm won’t sting your skin since it contains no alcohol. Instead, your skin will feel immediate relief and will be lightly scented. Rinse with warm water: Use warm water (versus cold or scalding hot) to splash your skin, as this will help open up your pores and make for a better shave. Water that’s too cold will close your pores, while water that’s too hot could cause irritation and inflammation.Allantoin: Ideal for those with dry, sensitive skin that’s prone to itchiness, allantoin is a common aftershave ingredient that helps relieve everything from razor burns to diaper rashes. It can be incredibly moisturizing when combined with other hydrating ingredients. Panthenol: An effective redness reducer, panthenol is a common aftershave ingredient that provides instant relief for razor burns and cuts. It’s also an excellent moisturizer. If you’re more of an aftershave splash dude, add this one from Ralph Lauren to your lineup. Housed in a minimalistic glass blue bottle with the iconic Ralph Lauren Polo logo, this formula is more lightweight than your standard aftershave balms and lotions, perfect for guys who are looking for a cooling, refreshing formula that has a subtle concentration of fragrance (and for those with oily skin types). This aftershave relies on allantoin—an extract from the comfrey plant—to hydrate and calm irritated skin. And if you’re strapped for time, you can double up and use it as an all-over body spray. Genius! Aramis launched Aramis Aftershave in 1966 as a woody chypre fragrance for men. Aramis was dedicated to men whom appreciate tradition and classics which is the reason why this fragrance is always modern. The composition is built around woody, sharp notes which create this very powerful and masculine aroma. The notes behind this fragrance is Bernard Chant.

If you have sensitive skin, you’ll also want to steer clear of formulas that contain synthetic fragrances. This goes for all skincare products, but especially for aftershaves, which are meant to be used on freshly shaved skin when the skin is raw and susceptible to irritation. Do your research, and look up the best aftershaves for men. Top-of-the-line aftershaves will generally stay away from the nasty stuff and only use premium ingredients.

Aftershave is meant to be used immediately post-shaving. No matter what formula type you’re using, make sure the area is clean and free of any hair remnants or oils. If you’re using a splash, wet your skin with cold water to close up your pores, pour some aftershave into the palms of your hands, and gently pat the formula into your skin. Or, if the product is in spray form, spray a few spritzes onto clean skin. Rinse your razor frequently: To prevent buildup of hair and shaving cream on your razor, make sure you’re rinsing it between passes. Having product buildup on your razor will keep you from getting the closest shave possible, as the surface will be uneven. Also, the presence of excess product will make you more susceptible to missing certain areas on your face. Leave it to Dior to formulate a skin-balancing aftershave lotion that delivers a refreshing, cologne-like scent that also fends off any irritation that can stem from shaving. For the guys who like pairing their aftershave with a cologne, Dior has made things easy for you, offering the same scent in cologne form so that you can round out your Sauvage regimen. Either way, your skin will be happy and clean—and smelling good all day. If you got carried away with shaving and are experiencing razor burn, here are some ingredients to look for in an aftershave. Fragranced with Aramis' timeless classic scent. A bold and masculine mix of heady top notes, such as Bergamot, Citrus and Sage with woody base notes of Patchouli, Sandalwood and Leather.