Razor burn refers to a skin irritation caused by shaving. It can develop on any area of the body that you shave, including the face, neck, armpit, legs, or even bikini area.
So, what exactly is razor burn?
If shaving is your preferred method for removing unwanted hair, you’ve probably dealt with annoying and even irritating side effects like razor burn. Apart from it looking unsightly, it can also be a source of pain and discomfort. Mainly caused by shaving, razor burn appears as a blotchy red skin rash.
After Shaving: How to Treat and Prevent Razor Burn
Stinging
Razor burn can occur due to a number of reasons. In essence, it develops because of the interaction between the blade, hair, and skin. If you shave and something goes wrong, you could disrupt the outer layer, which may result in tiny cracks, inflammation, and dry skin.
Tenderness
Razor burn is not the same as razor bumps, which are a condition that can develop due to ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs occur when the shaved or cut hair curls beneath the skin as it regrows. Both conditions cause redness and irritation, but razor bumps look like tiny pimples, while razor burn looks like a streaky red rash.
What causes razor burn?
Small red bumps
Itchiness
The symptoms can be painful and irritating, accompanied by redness or a stray red rash, burning sensation, and inflammation. Razor burn can also cause:
While razor burn usually goes away on its own, there are things you can do to soothe and heal your skin, as well as relieve some of its symptoms. Hydrate the skin and reduce inflammation – Use a gentle moisturizer or lotion to hydrate your skin, as well as repair and protect the skin barrier. Make sure to avoid products that have alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and other irritants, as they can only exacerbate your symptoms.
Try an oatmeal bath Research suggests that oatmeal has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin. You can add an oatmeal-based bath product or regular oatmeal to a tub of lukewarm water. This can provide symptom relief in the legs or pubic area.
Soothe irritation – Applying a cold compress or a clean washcloth soaked in cold water can help cool down warm and inflamed skin. Aloe vera gel from the plant or commercially available products can help soothe skin and reduce inflammation.
How can you treat razor burn?
Exfoliate before you shave – This is to remove dead skin cells that can clog your pores and release trapped or ingrown hairs. Avoid old and dull razors – Replace your razor blades every five to seven shaves. Avoid using dull ones or those with rust, as they can only increase your risk of irritation.
Never shave without a lubricant – Always use a shaving cream or gel to create a barrier between the blade and your skin. In a pinch, you can use soap or shaving cream.
How can you prevent future razor burns?
It is all about practicing good shaving habits, which include having the proper tools and knowing the right techniques. Here are a few tips that can reduce razor burn or minimize your risk of developing one.
Shave in the direction of the hair This helps reduce irritation that can result in inflammation. Also, avoid passing the razor on the same area too many times.
Use light, short strokes Don’t rush when you shave. Make sure to not pull your skin tightly while shaving.
Always keep your skin hydrated Apply moisturizers, lotions, and oils to keep your skin hydrated, especially after shaving. You should also know that shaving exfoliates the skin and make it more prone to dryness.
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SHR or Super Hair Removal – This unique laser-based technology uses low fluence laser pulses at a higher frequency. It targets both the pigment and stem cells responsible for hair production. It can treat nearly every part of the body, including the face, underarms, legs, and bikini area. It is also suitable for all skin colors and hair types, especially Asian ones.
Laser hair removal We use the Cutera CoolGlide, which is a US FDA-cleared device for permanent hair reduction. It works by delivering concentrated pulses of laser light, which is absorbed by melanin or hair pigment. The light is then converted into heat, damaging and destroying follicles. This disables future hair growth and treats both coarse and fine hair.
ProWave IPL Hair Removal –The Cutera Prowave system uses a specially tailored light source that targets the follicles and disables future hair growth. It can effectively treat light and fine hairs, and can be used on small areas like the upper lip and large areas like the chest and legs.