Welcome back to the Gentleman's Gazette! In today's video, we'll be discussing how
to best layer aftershave, lotion, and cologne. Have you ever wondered, does it
even matter how much cologne I put on, how much lotion I use, and is
aftershave even necessary? Well, you're not alone! Like many of you, I used to
think these same questions among a host of other questions while I was either
getting ready or out shopping for a new fragrance or new lotion. Now, the first thing
we're going to talk about today is aftershave. What does it even do? Now,
when you shave, your enlarged pores are now being exposed to bacteria. Aftershave
helps clear out that bacteria from your pores. Now, you might be wondering how
does this even happen? While aftershave usually contains a lot
of different ingredients, one of the main ingredients is called an astringent
and this ingredient helps close your open pores. Now, instead of using after
shave, there are actually other options you might be able to use. One of those
options is called a Witch Hazel. If you're anything like me, you probably
just thought that it is a creepy name but I promise you, it's got some great benefits.
Now, witch hazel, unlike its other alcohol-based aftershave counterparts,
does not contain ingredients that are going to help irritate the skin but it
still helps to tighten the skin and close the pores. If you've ever
experienced razor bumps, using witch hazel helps to alleviate
some of that skin irritation. Now, the next topic we're going to be discussing
is the lotion. What is lotion? Well, by definition, it is a thick liquid
preparation designed to be used for medicinal or cosmetic purposes onto the
skin. Now, one of the most popular ingredients you'll find in many
different lotions is called shea butter. Shea butter is a great moisturizing
agent. Now, when should you use lotion? If you grew up in a household like mine,
you're probably almost told to bathe in lotion. Now, it's best to use lotion right
after you're finished bathing but it's also nice to reapply it to rough areas
throughout the day when needed, like your hands, elbows, knees, or your heels. Having
to only apply a light layer of lotion is actually the goal, like you can reapply
to rough areas when needed. Please be aware that when using
a facial lotion, for example, you can overuse it and this can cause clogged
pores. Now, the next thing we're going to be discussing is cologne. What is it?
Well, by definition, cologne is actually called toilet water, however, don't let
that phrase scare you away from finding a great smelling fragrance. Liquid based
cologne is a very popular option that you'll see in a lot of different stores
when you're shopping for fragrances. However, liquid is not the only form in
which you can actually buy cologne. A solid wax based cologne is also a very
strong option to use. Solid cologne is actually quite portable and some may
argue that the added benefits of moisturization and the longevity of the
fragrance make it actually a stronger option to use. Now, if you are choosing to
use a liquid cologne, remember, when spraying, less is more.
Remember, you don't want to be considered that guy who always has to bathe in a
bottle and a half of cologne every time they leave the house. Use a small amount
of cologne once you've bathed. Do your best to not
spray on your clothing as the fragrance will not last throughout the day. It's
best to spray cologne on heated areas of the body, also called pulse points.
Certain areas like this would be your throat or your chest and you might be
wondering, can cologne expire? Well, the answer is actually no but the scent, over
time, will change from what the original scent was. To avoid having a cologne
scent shift too quickly, it's best to keep your bottle of cologne away from
direct sunlight and your bottle cap securely fastened. Also, try to keep your
cologne within a consistent temperature. There are also differences between
cologne and perfume. Growing up, I always viewed perfume and cologne differently. I
thought that perfume was for women and cologne was for men. Now, I don't know
where I came to these conclusions. I have since learned the differences. Really, it
comes down to the amount of oil each contains. At the highest amount of oil is
usually found in perfume which contains around 25%. Cologne, by oil
concentration is further down the list at around 3%. Now that we've discussed
aftershave, lotion, and cologne differences, let's look at how to best
layer them. Now, while in the shower, use a facial cleanser. Proceed to shave your
face, apply your aftershave, then apply a toner,
your SPF, and then your moisturizer or facial lotion then apply a body lotion.
After completely moisturizing your body, then you can apply your Cologne to your
pulse points. Just remember, with fragranc,e less is more. If you're aiming
for a longer lasting and stronger scent, go ahead and buy a perfume which
contains around 25% oil concentration versus cologne at around 3 percent
concentration. Remember, aftershave is your friend. Go ahead and apply your
aftershave. If you have sensitive skin, try witch hazel, instead, as opposed to
other alcohol-based alternatives. Use lotion, especially in rough areas
like hands, knees, elbows, and heels. Try out this layering plan and please let us
know how you like it. Also, if you'd like to know more about grooming, take a look
at our series on hair care and skin care here. Today, I'm wearing a warm burgundy
cotton crewneck sweater, a white collar dress shirt, medium wash denim
with a brown belt from Anton, and some faux gray tassel loafers.