I'll grade it as a pre shave. It works great to reduce nicks and help soften the whiskers. The smell is very nice but stays if you don't wipe it down. I've tried it as an aftershave and for the reason I don't like balms, I feel it leaves a greasy film but this makes it worse if you use it as an aftershave. The best result I've seen as a preshave is to have it sit in your sink with your shave mug and brush in hot water while you shower. Your mug will be warm for the warm lather and the oil will feel awesome.