Breaking Tradition – Balmy Aftershave Solutions

With their subtle natural moisturising qualities and options for dry skin types, balms are now the preferred post-shave moisturiser. As they take the lead in the market, it seems the old-fashioned technique of burning your freshly bald skin with alcohol-based aftershave is beginning to dwindle. Modern men are beginning to take care of their skin and go as far as introducing daily skincare routines. In the past where aftershave would both cleanse the skin and provide a pleasant scent, this has been replaced with two completely different products; balm for soothing immediately after shaving and ode de toilette, a lightly scented perfume for everyday use.

For those men who suffer from dry and irritated skin following shaving, aftershave balms provide moisturising qualities they would struggle to get from regular aftershaves. Products may contain Vitamin C which helps skin appear healthier and shinier, Vitamin B5 that helps relieve irritation instantly and soothe skin. Many shaving balm products contain additional ingredients such as grape seed extracts and Shea butter adding a subtle fragrance to the product. Green tea and lemon and lime oil extracts provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.

Those who argue in favour of balms would suggest that some aftershaves are harmful to skin, normal or dry. Rewind a few decades and this could easily be plausible where less regulation and bizarre ideas meant certain controversial ingredients could make their way into products, though this was common practice in all industries at the time.

Astringents are chemical compounds that tend to shrink or constrict body tissues; commonly found in aftershaves, propylene glycol can also be found in anti-freeze! Benzyl acetate and ethyl acetate are also both commonly found in aftershaves, they’re known as carcinogens which have been linked to pancreatic cancer, not to mention they cause irritation to eyes and respiratory systems. A quality aftershave will have an ingredients list with words you can actually recognise and pronounce.

In the cosmetic and skincare industry fragrances are a controversial subject due to the fact many of the scents are proprietary to the manufacturers meaning they don’t need to list the ingredients. A fragrance could be made of up to 4,000 different ingredients so they’re best avoided, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.  Artificial colorants could also be used, especially in the cheaper solutions, which could cause nasty allergic reactions or aggravate existing conditions such as eczema.

Our men’s skincare range is being continually developed and new formulas added to ensure the finest quality product. With Vitamins C, E, and Hyaluronic Acid that keeps skin plump, hydrated and young-looking. Naturally organic, our balm contains real fruit extracts for a delicious smelling scent and natural peptides repair and replenish your dry and irritated skin.

Cosmiko offers a range of men’s toiletries including face wash, face scrub, eye rejuvenation cream and much more.