For years I've never been able to use Alcohol based aftershaves..it burns my skin. I just discovered that putting Witch Hazel on my skin then using the smell good Alcohol based aftershaves (Aqua Velva, Clubman Aftershave etc) makes the aftershave not burn my skin. Just a little knowledge I wanted to share...it may help somebody here!
I actually like that burn I get from putting on the aftershave. But like you, I always have been applying witch hazel straight up, let it dry on my face and then apply the splash. Works great.
Been saying it for years. The witch hazel (being an astringent) cleans out your pores, and ‘tightens up’ your skin. So when you apply the A.S., it doesn’t get too deep into your pores causing a burning sensation. It just disinfects the top layer of skin,(the new ‘exposed’ skin) which is all you need. Once you get it, you know! It’s all about the alcohol splashes gents. P.S.- If you have ‘dry skin’ or live in an arid , dry’ environment, they make A.S. with glycerin or glycol in it. Those A.S. are made for just that ‘situation’. If you live in a humid region like me, the glycerin feels ‘sticky’ or ‘greasy’ So a plain alcohol splash feels more comfortable. Gotta’ love splashes!