Balm before aftershave or aftershave before balm?

[Teutonblade]

I’m not sure why but I’ve always applied aftershave after the balm. I guess I’ve always felt that there is something symbolic and ceremonial about finishing with the splash. Plus, maybe I thought the scent would be unadulterated if it went on last. But lately I’ve been wondering if the splash might be removing some of the balm and allowing my skin to dry out more, particularly as almost all my aftershaves have alcohol, which I like.

Just curious what others think and what their practice is.

 

[Guido75]

Aftershave before balm. It closes the pores and takes care of minor shaving damage. Balm for the win and restore the balance. I might spray on EdT or EdC if I wish for a more potent scent. The one green the aftershave is gone quickly.

 

[brucered]

For me it's one or the other, never both.

 

[silverlifter]

Aftershave before balm.

This is the way™. The splash invigorates the freshly shaved skin, and then the balm moisturises the entire face, optimistically preparing it for another day of stress, pollution, and general degradation.

 

[Darth Scandalous]

I'll admit to being the odd man out here. When I do use balm (Nivea) I apply it first. Only reason is that while I don't mind the scent of Nivea, I much prefer the scents of my splashes. So I use a splash once the balm has soaked in a little.

 

[Bsamps]

Pores don’t open or close. It’s a myth, or rather a fable. An alcohol splash is meant to be an antiseptic. You took a very sharp blade across your face, and therefore took a layer of skin off. The ”splash” is meant to protect the skin from any bacteria infection. A “balm” is meant to moisturize and nourish the skin... mostly to just moisturize. Most modern, “quality“ balms do both.

 

[Teutonblade]

Switched it up today and applied aftershave before balm. I liked it!

First off, when I apply balm first I end up waiting for it to dry down before applying aftershave which slows me down in the morning when getting ready for work. I also tend to not want to put on my shirt until after applying aftershave so I don't get it on my shirt and possibly stain it, which slows me down further. That problem is solved by putting aftershave on first because it dries fast and if I want I can apply balm after I put my shirt on with no risk of a stain. I didn't notice any difference in aftershave intensity by applying it before the balm.

Just as an aside, the Wholly Kaw Bare Naked unscented balm is fantastic. It feels great, blends in completely, and dries fairly quickly.

 

[Rico Suave]

I like to go balm first. I find most balms spread more evenly with a bit of moisture. The aftershave provides it.

 

[reformedshavr]

Winter: witch hazel-> AS->balm. If I'm looking to extended the AS scent I'll do a quick little dab after I'm dressed.
Summer: witch hazel-> AS