Your Body Lotion Shouldn't Sting Post-Shave — Look Out For These Ingredients

One prime example: Your body lotion shouldn't sting upon application—or ever. Even if you apply your lotion after shaving, this sting may be a sign that you should check the back of your bottle, as some lotions are better than others for that post-shave hydration. Here's how to find the best pick. 

So if your lotion burns post-shave, it may be due to some sneaky AHAs or BHAs (think salicylic, glycolic, lactic, and other acids), retinol, concentrated essential oils, or other irritating fragrances. That doesn't mean you shouldn't moisturize at all; it just calls for a different product pick. (We repeat: You should moisturize after every shower.) 

If you're experiencing burning, post-shave or not, then you should look for a barrier-supporting body lotion free of fragrance and exfoliants of any kind. A few ingredient alternatives that should soothe instead of burn include: 

Of course, this list only scratches the surface; there's a long list of calming ingredients you can use post-shave. Just know that looking through ingredient lists can be deceiving because of how cryptic some formulas may look. To make browsing a touch easier, seek labels like "fragrance-free," "unscented," "eczema safe," or "safe for sensitive skin" as a start. 

Important note: If you're shaving in the bikini area, stick to products formulated for that purpose, like the Fur Ingrown Concentrate.

Remember, self-care shouldn't be painful. If your lotion is stinging your skin post-application, it may be due to fragrance, exfoliants, or generally irritating ingredients. Look for a body lotion that tends to the moisture barrier instead, especially right after you shave. If you want even more options to scroll through, shop these 11 fragrance-free body lotions.