Best Aftershave Ever!

[m139]

I wrote about this before but I've modified it a bit so it's even better now (IMO).

A few weeks ago, I tried using Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner as an aftershave. I use it nightly as a toner because it has AHA and BHA and then I took a look at the rest of the ingredients and saw things that are components of most good aftershaves (i.e. WH, Aloe, Eucalyptus, Allantonin) and I thought it's worth a try. I splashed it on but it burned a bit more than Proraso or TOBS, so I kept using it only as a toner.

This morning, I thought maybe I should cut it with WH so I mixed 50/50 Thayers alcohol free unscented WH with this stuff and the results were excellent. The burn is minor and the scent is really fresh and clean and goes away quickly leaving the skin ultra soft. Since there is no glycerine or any real moisturizers, I followed with my ASB (AOS SW for me).

At $6 for an 8.5oz bottle, it can't be beat!



INGREDIENTS: Water, Alcohol Denat. (35%), Glycolic Acid, Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) Extract, Sodium Pca, Alicylic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Peppermint (Mentha Piperita) Leaf Extract, Allantoin, Sodium Lactate, PEG 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance.

 

[deoxy4]

Sounds great. Where do you purchase it?

 

[warhawk]

Thanks for sharing and where can one purchase it.

WARHAWK

 

[Jeff_H]

I pretty sure I've seen that at both CVS and Walgreens. I'd bet you can find it at most places with a generally good assortment of face/bath/body products. Target, Walmart, etc.

 

[flatlinerz]

will give this a go

 

[rxonmymind]

Try Lucido.

 

[mistercitizen]

Good idea! Looks like a good solution to me. I usually use witch hazel or a toner (Baxter of California Herbal Mint Toner) after my cold water rinse, but before application of my aftershave lotion/splash (containing alcohol).

Ben

 

[m139]

I buy it from CVS but I'm sure it can be found almost anywhere Neutrogena products are sold. At CVS, they stock it with all the facial moisturizing and acne control products. I used it again this morning (50/50 mix with AF WH) and it's great stuff. In fact, I splashed it on my face and rubbed a bit on my scalp and forehead (I shave #1 on my head). By the time I got done cleaning up, the scent was gone.

Personally for me, this "discovery" solves a lot of aftershave headaches and trying to match fragrances. I've also eliminated the alum block and I have had no need for the styptic gel (knock on wood). I just follow my shave with a cold water splash as usual. I pat dry, then splash on my aftershave mix. Done. I can follow with AFB, moisturizer, or nothing depending on how I feel that day. Today I followed with Mont Blanc Legend AFB... great stuff.

Again, at $6/8.5oz bottle, it's fantastic. Now I just need to find a nice looking glass bottle to keep the mix in on my countertop.

 

[Ron Scott]

How is it possible to discuss the relative merits of various aftershaves, aside from the smell, without describing your skin types?

 

[m139]

How is it possible to discuss the relative merits of various aftershaves, aside from the smell, without describing your skin types?

Very good point. My skin in for the most part oily. I have thick bronze oily skin with fairly visible pores particularly on the cheeks. I find that a little alcohol helps and I also find that AHA and BHA keep my skin clear and calm.

I've never tried to use just ASB without first using a alcohol of some sort. I could try it but my guess is that my skin will end up being a bit too oily.

I'm sure that for many with dry skin, using AHA & BHA with alcohol after shaving is probably not a good idea!