How Can I Get Rid of Razor Burns?

Razor burn is a common skin irritation that occurs while shaving. Razor burn can affect any part of your body - from your face to your neck, from your arms to your legs. Not to be confused with razor bumps, signs of razor burn can include redness (all over the shaved area, or in the form of red streaks, or blotchiness), itchiness, rash, swelling, tenderness, a burning feeling, and small red bumps on and around the affected area. Whereas razor bumps are characterized by small bumps and are the result of ingrown hairs - i.e. hairs that curl back into the skin as it grows back. 

More often than not, razor burn goes away on its own, but fortunately, there are a handful of at home remedies that could help quicken the healing process… 

ALOE VERA

Aloe Vera is one of the most accessible remedies. It is known for soothing and healing burns, plus it also acts as a moisturizer, soother, antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory. In addition, Aloe Vera contains plant hormones called glucomannan and gibberellin, which increases the synthesis of collagen, healing skin ailments and preventing scarring.

TEA TREE OIL

WITCH HAZEL

Witch hazel is an astringent and anti-inflammatory, meaning it contains properties that causes body tissues (such as skin) to tighten, making the skin less oily, and helps stops a cut from bleeding. It is a natural remedy that soothes burns, relieves pain, and treat minor skin irritations.

OATMEAL BATH

1. Give yourself plenty of time to shave, so you’re not rushed
2. Shave when your skin is clean, wet and warm to help soften the hair. It’s usually a good idea to exfoliate your skin before shaving to remove dirt and dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Doing so keeps your skin clean, unclogs your pores and helps you get a closer shave.
3. Always apply a generous coating of shaving gel, cream, or lotion to the area. Make sure you’re using a gentle lubricant that won’t irritate your skin. 
4. Avoid using old blades. Typically, you should replace your disposable blades every five to seven times - if not sooner. If you haven't already, check out our last blog post to determine how often you should be changing your razor blade.
5. Shave in the direction that your hair grows, not against the grain. You would also want to keep your shaving strokes short and light. If you feel like you have to drag your razor, it’s time for a new blade.
6. Avoid going over the same area more than once. If you feel that you have to repeatedly go over your skin with the razor, again, it’s probably time for a new blade.
7. Rinse your razor between each use to remove buildup.
8. Keep your razors in a dry area and replace them often. You want to maintain a sharp razor, void of any rust or buildup.
9. After shaving, apply a fragrance free moisturizer to restore your skin’s natural barriers and avoid wearing any tight clothing or fabric against the freshly shaved area so that the cloth won’t rub against the area and irritate it.