Suffering From Shaving Rash After Trimming Your Beard? We Have Some Tips
If you notice red, itchy skin after shaving, there is a good chance that you are dealing with razor burn. Razor burn can be caused by many factors such as dry skin, sensitive skin, improper technique while shaving or using an old blade. Shaving rash can be treated in various ways including applying aloe vera gel to the affected area or taking medication for relief of symptoms.
After reading this blog post about what causes razor burns and how to treat them, hopefully you will find relief from your own rash!
Firstly, What is a shaving rash?
Razor burn is a skin irritation that can occur after shaving. It can cause redness, itching and sometimes even burning sensations. Razor burn is often confused with razor bumps, which are caused by ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs can sometimes lead to infection, so it is important to treat them if they occur.
What Causes a Shaving Rash?
There are several different factors that can cause shaving rash. Dry skin is the most common cause of razor burn, but there are many other contributing factors to consider as well, including:
Here are some common causes for razor burn and how you can prevent them.
Dry Skin –
Dry skin occurs because the water in your body evaporates during the shaving process. This leaves your skin feeling tight and dry after you shave. Using a moisturizing shaving cream before shaving can often help to prevent this problem, but if you already have itchy skin after shaving, avoid using alcohol based gels or toners on your face. They can be too drying for sensitive skin!
Hair Type –
Some hair types are more difficult to cut than others. Coarse hairs can be tough because they have a thicker shaft and less water inside of them, so it is harder to get a clean shave with these hairs. In this case, shaving against the direction of hair growth may result in a closer shave for those tricky coarse hairs. But, it can also increase the risk for razor burn, so be sure to use a good moisturizing shaving cream if you find yourself needing to shave against the grain.
Shaving Technique –
How you shave is another important factor when it comes to avoiding razor burn. Shaving too closely to the skin or pressing down too hard with the blade can lead to a shaving rash. It is important to use a light touch when you shave and rinse the blade frequently. This way, your razor will still get close enough for a clean cut, but it won’t irritate your skin by dragging or scraping against it.
Shaving Cream –
Harsh shaving creams can lead to irritation, especially when you don’t use a moisturizing shaving cream. The best shaving creams for preventing razor burn will be made with natural ingredients and soothing essential oils. If you want to avoid an itchy face after shaving, try using a moisturizing shaving cream such as this one from Art of Shaving to keep skin hydrated and well protected.
Hair Removal Method –
How you remove your hair can also contribute to razor burn. Waxing and using an epilator can be more harsh on the skin than shaving, so if you are prone to razor burn, these methods may not be the best for you.
Medications –
Some medications will cause your skin to be more sensitive than usual, which can lead to shaving rash. If you are taking any new medications, check with your doctor first to see if it might be causing dryness or irritation on your face before you shave.
Treatment For Shaving Rash
If you do experience razor burn, there are several treatments that you can try to get relief from the symptoms.
Aloe Vera –
Aloe vera is a natural remedy that has been shown to be effective in treating skin irritation. It is a cooling gel that helps to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. You can purchase an aloe vera gel or extract and apply it directly to the rash.
Tea Tree Oil –
Tea tree oil is another natural remedy that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can be helpful in reducing the redness and swelling associated with razor burn. You can apply tea tree oil directly to the rash or add a few drops to your shaving cream before you shave.
Cucumber –
Cucumbers are a natural cooling agent and they can help to soothe the skin. Cut a cucumber into thin slices and place them on the rash for about 10 minutes. The coolness of the cucumber will help to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Topical Creams –
There are also many topical creams that are available over the counter that can be effective in treating razor burn. It is best to use a non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) lotion or cream that contains ingredients such as aloe vera and tea tree oil.
After Shave Balm
An aftershave balm can be helpful because it will soothe and protect the skin while also providing a moisturizing barrier. Use one that contains aloe vera or tea tree oil for best results. You can also use an alcohol-free witch hazel product for this purpose. Witch hazel is a natural astringent that reduces inflammation and redness.
Oatmeal Baths –
Add 1 cup of uncooked oatmeal to your bath water and soak in it for about 10 minutes. The oatmeal will act as very mild exfoliant that can help to remove dry skin cells while also moisturizing the skin. It is soothing, cooling, and anti-inflammatory.
If you are experiencing razor burn, it is important to take steps to soothe and protect the skin. There are a number of natural remedies that can be effective, such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, cucumbers, and oatmeal baths. You can also try using a shaving cream that is made with natural ingredients and contains moisturizers, such as this one from Pacific Shaving Company.
After you have shaved
it is important to use a moisturizer that will help to protect the skin from irritation. In addition to these remedies for razor burn, make sure you are also drinking plenty of water and getting enough sleep each night.
If your symptoms persist, it is best to consult a doctor. He or she may be able to recommend an over the counter cream or prescribe a medication that will help to reduce the inflammation and redness.
The Bottom Line
Razor burn is a common problem that can be caused by a number of factors. There are many remedies available that can help to soothe the skin and reduce the symptoms, including aloe vera, tea tree oil, cucumber slices on the rash, oatmeal baths, and moisturizers with natural ingredients.
If these remedies do not work to reduce your symptoms or they continue for more than a few days, it is best to visit your doctor.
Frequently asked questions.
Q. How do I prevent razor burn?
A. One of the best ways to prevent razor burn is by using a shaving cream that contains moisturizer and natural ingredients.You should also make sure your skin is clean, dry, and slightly moist before you shave. Use an alcohol-free witch hazel product as a post-shave balm.
Q. What are some home remedies for razor burn?
A. There are a number of natural remedies that can be effective in treating razor burn, including aloe vera, tea tree oil, cucumbers, and oatmeal baths. You can also try using a shaving cream that is made with natural ingredients and contains moisturizers, such as this one from Pacific Shaving Company.
Q. How do I prevent razor bumps?
A. To prevent razor bumps, you should shave in the direction of hair growth instead of against it. If possible, use a single blade disposable razor or an electric shaver to remove hair. Make sure the skin is clean and dry before you shave and use an alcohol-free witch hazel product as a post-shave balm.
Q. How long will razor burn last?
A. Razor burn can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the severity of the symptoms. If the symptoms continue for more than a few days, it is best to visit your doctor. He or she may be able to prescribe a cream or medication that can help to reduce the inflammation and redness.
Q. How do I get rid of razor rash?
A. To soothe and protect your skin while also providing a barrier against moisture, an oil-based product is best. Petroleum jelly, like Vaseline, can be applied to the skin after you shave. You can also use an over-the-counter cream or lotion that contains cortisone or hydrocortisone. These products will reduce inflammation and redness.
Q. What is the difference between razor burn and razor bumps?
A. Razor burn is a common skin irritation that occurs when the skin is damaged while shaving, but razor bumps are a more serious condition that can be caused by skin infections. Bumps usually appear after waxing or threading hair from the root and indicate an infection of the follicles.
Q. What should I do if my razor burn is severe?
A. If your razor burn is severe, you should consult a doctor. He or she may be able to prescribe a cream or medication that can help to reduce the inflammation and redness.
