aftershave
AF-ter-sheyv
/ˈæftərʃeɪv/
A liquid scented product applied to the skin after shaving to sanitize, close pores, and soothe irritation.
Traditionally alcohol-based to disinfect micro-cuts, modern aftershaves also come in alcohol-free balms to prevent drying out sensitive skin.
The story behind the word. A straightforward English compound, 'aftershave' emerged in the late 19th century as commercial barbershops began using antiseptic splashes to prevent 'barber's itch' (bacterial infections caused by dirty blades).
Word relationships
- post-shave balm: A post-shave balm is typically a thick, moisturizing cream, whereas traditional aftershave is a thin, watery liquid with high alcohol content.
- pre-shave oil: Pre-shave oil is applied before shaving to soften hair, while aftershave is applied afterward to soothe the skin.
Commonly confused with
- cologne: Cologne is formulated purely for fragrance and has a higher concentration of perfume oils, whereas aftershave contains soothing and antiseptic ingredients for facial skin.
Collocations
- splash of aftershave
- soothing aftershave
- aftershave balm
- aftershave lotion
Example sentences
- "The bracing sting of the aftershave made him gasp, but it left his skin feeling incredibly fresh." A sensory description of a finished shave
- "The bathroom still smelled of his father's pine-scented aftershave." Describing a familiar scent
Memory hook
It is exactly what it says: a liquid you put on your face after you shave. Apply after you shave.
When not to use
Do not confuse with shaving cream (applied before shaving) or cologne (applied purely for scent, usually to the neck or wrists rather than the face).
Fun facts
- Early aftershaves were heavily alcohol-based because they were primarily used as medical antiseptics to prevent serious skin infections from shared barbering tools.
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.