Ok, I don't shave, but I trim my beard. I was wondering, if you don't shave and just trim do you still use after shave or no?

I thought after shave was just to moist the skin after shaving ? maybe im wrong. I dont think you would need it since it was just a trim, but maybe im wrong then again its all on person choice

My father shaves every day and he doesn't use aftershave, or at least I've never found any in the bathroom -- I've looked for some before -- and I've never smelt it.  I don't think there's a hard and fast rule of when you have to.  If you want to, then use it.  If you don't, don't.

I don't use aftershave either way. If you're not shaving before using it then it's not really "aftershave"...it's basically cologne.

I don't use aftershave at all.

I just about always use it (Gray Flannel) after a wet shave. Not only does it soothe the skin, put it also helps to close up the pores which otherwise would remain more open after the shaving itself without it (or, more than just cool water alone could do). Which, can help to prevent new acne by closing them up before the bacteria can settle in. I personally notice my acne was worse after shaving before I started using it, and better after I did use it.

Also, another use of it I can think of for the aftershaves containing alcohol is as a disinfectant after a nick or cut, and even useful if you don't get either of those because you're still scraping off a layer of skin either way.

And, it's cologne too of course.

But yeah, you don't need to use it if you don't want too, especially if you're not using a blade against your skin. I know plenty who don't use it. But I prefer too because for me, it does make a difference.

I also follow that up with a small amount of extra virgin olive oil to moisturize my skin though. Give it a reprieve from the alcohol. Contrary to popular opinion, it does NOT block the pores and works a hell of a lot better than lotions or other commercial crap. 

Fwiw, I shaved for 25 years before starting laser on my neck and face. Aftershave is decent for the reason cited - it helps avoid razor burn and disinfects. However, it is less important if you are using an electric shaver, which tends not to shave as close. Most guys don't use a lot of aftershave unless they shave with a safety razor (like a Fusion) and have sensitive skin...then it still is not super common among guys I know. I think most guys just buy a cologne they like and go with that if the only purpose is to smell nice (so they can save money).  The important thing to do, if it doesn't cause havoc to your pores, is to moisturize.  Shaving is actually a great way to exfoliate, but it dries your skin - especially in cold weather. 

If any of you guys have any hygiene or fashion questions, please feel free to PM me. Nothing is to odd to ask - glad to share observations. I was a pretty manly man before I started to transition and would be happy to share any pointers. 

Yeah, I've been shaving for over three decades now, feel free to ask questions. I always use aftershave. I love the burn of Old Spice, but I can't smell like that anymore. It's just not ladylike! Hugs, Devlyn

When I shaved my peach fuzz I used aftershave.  Now I just use a beard trimmer and no aftershave.


Jay

I was shaving my peach fuzz, but now I have, well not sure what to call it under my chin and upper lip. I actually do need to shave this. I shave about twice a week. I use an a safety razor and foamy shaving cream (dad used?). I use moisturizer as my face is dry from washing so much (It has worked--no zits but super drying even with moisturizer type face cleaner).

--Jay