What does aftershave actually do?

Aftershave calms and protects freshly shaven skin. It helps reduce irritation, razor burn, and minor nicks with antiseptic or soothing ingredients, while adding a subtle scent to finish your grooming routine.

Should I choose a balm, lotion, or splash?

Pick based on skin type and feel: balms are best for dry or sensitive skin (more cushioning and hydration), lotions suit normal to combination skin, and splashes feel light and refreshing on oily skin.

Which aftershaves are good for sensitive skin?

Look for hydrating balms with soothing ingredients (e.g., aloe, glycerin). Gentle options include Tabac Original Aftershave Balm 75ml, Dapper Dan Aftershave Balm 100ml, and Coach for Men Aftershave Balm 150ml.

Can I layer aftershave with cologne or EDT?

Yes. Apply aftershave first to soothe the skin, then layer a matching EDT or cologne to extend longevity and keep the scent profile consistent throughout the day.

When should I apply aftershave?

Apply immediately after shaving on clean, towel-dried skin. Use a small amount, pat it gently across shaved areas, and allow it to absorb before applying any additional products.

How long does the scent of aftershave last?

Most aftershaves last around 3–6 hours depending on concentration, skin chemistry, and environment. Layering with a matching EDT or deodorant can help the scent last longer.

What are some timeless aftershaves to consider?

Classics include Tabac Original Aftershave Lotion, Davidoff Cool Water Aftershave, and Calvin Klein Eternity For Men. For a designer finish, consider Hermès Terre d’Hermès, Versace Pour Homme, or Hugo Boss Bottled Aftershave.

Do you offer free UK delivery?

Yes. Glow Empire offers free UK delivery on orders over £50. You can also shop confidently with our 60-day returns policy.

Sep 05, 2025

🪒 Best Aftershaves for Men: Timeless Scents & Skin-Soothing Finishes

The ritual of shaving is more than grooming—it’s a moment of renewal. The right aftershave doesn’t just soothe freshly shaven skin, it defines your presence with a scent that lingers. Whether you’re heading into the office, out for a night, or simply enjoying the confidence of a clean shave, the best aftershaves can transform your routine into a luxurious experience.

From classic icons like Tabac Original to modern favourites such as Hugo Boss Bottled, aftershaves balance fragrance with function. They calm irritation, hydrate the skin, and add a subtle finishing touch that lasts. If you’ve been searching for the perfect option, this guide rounds up the best aftershaves for men in the UK, blending affordability, luxury, and timeless appeal.

🔗 Related blog: Best Autumn Fragrances for Men

💡 Why Aftershaves Matter

Aftershave is often underestimated, treated as just another step after shaving. But in reality, it’s a multifunctional essential. Here’s why it matters:

Soothing & Healing: Shaving removes the top layer of skin, leaving it vulnerable. Aftershaves with antiseptic or hydrating properties reduce irritation, razor burn, and small nicks.
Confidence Booster: The fragrance becomes your invisible accessory—subtle enough for daily wear yet powerful enough to make an impression.
Tradition Meets Modernity: British grooming culture has long celebrated classic aftershaves like Tabac Original, but today’s market offers more variety—balms, lotions, and even aftershave mists tailored to skin type and style.
Affordable Luxury: Many high-end designer brands, such as Hermès or Versace, craft aftershaves that deliver both skincare benefits and their signature fragrance DNA.

This makes aftershaves not only a skincare product but a lifestyle choice—one that adds refinement to your daily grooming ritual.

🔗 Related blog: Fragrance Notes Guide

💫 Top Picks: Best Aftershaves for Men

✨ Cerruti 1881 Aftershave Lotion 100ml

A refined choice that embodies Italian elegance. Perfect for men who enjoy a fresh yet woody scent.
✔️ Classic Mediterranean character
✔️ Smooth, masculine finish
✔️ Elegant everyday wear
🔗 Find it here: Cerruti 1881 Aftershave Lotion 100ml

✨ Tabac Original Aftershave Lotion 150ml

A barbershop staple known for its timeless scent. Ideal for men who love tradition.
✔️ Iconic masculine fragrance
✔️ Long-lasting freshness
✔️ Perfect for all ages
🔗 Shop now: Tabac Original Aftershave Lotion 150ml

✨ Hermès Terre d’Hermès Aftershave Lotion 100ml

Luxury bottled—combining citrus zest with earthy depth.
✔️ Sophisticated finish
✔️ Lightweight hydration
✔️ Ideal for special occasions
🔗 Explore it here: Hermès Terre d’Hermès Aftershave Lotion 100ml

✨ Calvin Klein Eternity For Men Aftershave 100ml

A crisp, clean scent that has defined men’s grooming since the 90s.
✔️ Aromatic, fresh fragrance
✔️ Great for office wear
✔️ Modern yet classic
🔗 Grab it here: Calvin Klein Eternity For Men Aftershave 100ml

✨ Hugo Boss Bottled Aftershave 50ml

Part of the legendary Boss Bottled range, this is confidence in a bottle.
✔️ Warm woody-spicy scent
✔️ Perfect everyday fragrance
✔️ Matches the best-selling Eau de Toilette
🔗 Shop the classic: Hugo Boss Bottled Aftershave 50ml

✨ Versace Pour Homme Aftershave Lotion 100ml

Mediterranean freshness meets designer luxury.
✔️ Bright citrus and aromatic notes
✔️ Instantly refreshing splash
✔️ Adds sophistication to your grooming
🔗 Get it here: Versace Pour Homme Aftershave Lotion 100ml

✨ Davidoff Cool Water Aftershave 75ml

An aquatic legend that remains one of the most refreshing choices.
✔️ Clean, oceanic scent
✔️ Great for summer days
✔️ Affordable classic
🔗 Refresh your routine: Davidoff Cool Water Aftershave 75ml

🪞 Add to your grooming ritual: Fragrance Collection

🛁 When and How to Use Aftershaves

Aftershaves work best when applied immediately after shaving.

Morning routine: Splash or balm right after cleansing and shaving for hydration.
Daytime freshness: Lighter lotions like Cool Water or Versace Pour Homme are ideal.
Evening refinement: Stronger, elegant scents like Terre d’Hermès shine best on nights out.
Seasonal switch: Use cooling balms in summer, hydrating lotions in winter.

Consistency is key—make it the last step of your grooming routine.

🧴 How to Choose the Right Aftershave

Picking the best aftershave depends on your skin type and lifestyle:

Hydration: Look for balms with shea butter or aloe vera.
Texture: Lotions for oily skin, balms for dry or sensitive skin.
Fragrance Style: Choose fresh scents for day, warm spices or woods for night.
Layering: Match with your Eau de Toilette or cologne for lasting impact.

🛌️ Glow Beyond Skin: The Ritual Effect

Using aftershave is more than skincare—it’s about confidence. The scent becomes part of your identity, and the ritual of applying it is grounding. In the UK, men are increasingly blending affordable luxury into their routines, proving that looking and feeling good doesn’t require overspending.

Glow Empire champions this ethos: designer quality without the designer price tag. Every aftershave in this guide has been chosen for its ability to transform a daily necessity into a self-care ritual.

🔗 Related blog: Fragrance on a Budget: Smell Like Luxury

🧶 Pro Tips to Make It Last Longer

✔️ Apply to slightly damp skin after shaving
✔️ Layer with matching colognes or deodorants
✔️ Store bottles in cool, dark spaces
✔️ Choose the right format (balm, lotion, splash) for your skin

🌐 Where to Shop Affordable Aftershaves

Glow Empire makes discovering quality aftershaves simple:

• Free UK delivery over £50
• Trusted, trending brands
• Curated grooming picks

✅ Explore more from Glow Empire:
• Perfumes & colognes for every season
• Long-lasting makeup must-haves
• Affordable luxury skincare range

💖 Final Thoughts: Best Aftershaves for Men

The best aftershaves balance soothing care with captivating scent. Whether you prefer the classic warmth of Tabac, the luxury of Hermès, or the freshness of Davidoff Cool Water, each offers a finishing touch that elevates grooming into a ritual of confidence.

Glow Empire is here to make these choices affordable, luxurious, and always within reach.

🔗 Mention: Explore our perfumes & colognes for every season

🛍️ Ready to Glow?

Shop smart. Shine bright. Discover your next grooming essential at Glow Empire today.

🔗 Related Blogs to Explore

• Best Designer Deodorant Sprays UK
• Guy Laroche Drakkar Noir Review
• Best Autumn Fragrances for Men
• Gift Sets for Men: Affordable & Luxury

❓ Q&A Section: Aftershaves

Q: Is aftershave suitable for sensitive skin?
A: Yes—opt for balms like Tabac or Dapper Dan for extra hydration.

Q: Can I use aftershave with cologne?
A: Definitely. Layering with a matching EDT extends longevity.

Q: How long does the scent last?
A: Most lotions and balms last 3–6 hours, while stronger blends can linger longer.

Q: Where can I buy affordable aftershaves?
A: At Glow Empire—with free UK shipping on orders over £50.

🪒 Best Aftershaves for Men: Timeless Scents & Skin-Soothing Finishes

💡 Why Aftershaves Matter