Those with sensitive skin can wind up with painful breakouts on the area that was shaved. This is commonly known as razor burn, and it is typically caused by small cuts from your razor becoming irritated, particularly as the hair continues to grow back. In some cases, the healing skin on these cuts can result in ingrown hairs on the shaved area. Those that need to shave daily must learn to manage these symptoms to avoid the embarrassment and the discomfort associated with this condition.
How to Prevent Shaving Rash
Watch a video for general tips before reading on for more options. Everything cares, from shaving tools to skin care after shaving.
Tips on How to Prevent Shaving Rash on Face, Legs, Bikini Area, and Chest:
1. Use Moisturizing Shaving Products
Many shaving products contain alcohol which can dry out the skin. Focus on finding shaving products that will hydrate the skin like Shea butter, goat’s milk or glycerin.
2. Apply Pre-Shaving Oil
A few drops of shaving oil should be placed on the skin before adding shaving cream or gel to the skin. This will provide a barrier between your skin and the razor so you will be less susceptible to damage.
3. Soften Your Skin and Hair
Taking a shower before shaving can help soften the skin. The steam from a hot shower will also allow the hair to become soft so they will be easier to cut. Washing in warm water causes the skin to relax so you will not shave the skin too closely and cause irritation. You will open up the pores so that you can shave on a smooth surface and get better access to the hair.
4. Choose the Proper Razor
Electric razors are intended to be used on the face rather than the body. Disposable razors are not meant to be used for multiple shaves. Select a razor that is high quality and contains moisture strips. Those that have sensitive skin should focus on a single blade razor rather than one with multiple blades. It is also important to shave with a sharp razor rather than one that is dull. This will provide you with a closer shave that does not require as much pressure to complete, limiting the damage you can do to your skin.
5. Keep Razor Clean
Every time you pass your razor over the skin, rinse it with water. If your razor is dull or dirty, it is more likely to irritate your skin or give you an uneven shave. Unclear razor can make it more likely that you will develop ingrown hairs or blemishes due to the bacteria.
6. Trim Hair at First
Hair that is too long can make it difficult to shave properly. Your hair will dull the blade, making it easier to irritate your skin. Use clippers to cut down the length of the hair before you start to shave, leaving a short amount of stubble that is easy to shave.
7. Watch Shaving Techniques
Using the right technique is the key to getting a close shave without causing harm to your skin. Shave in the direction the hairs grow rather than shaving against the grain. If you plan to do a second pass over the skin, do so gently without pushing down very hard to avoid damaging the skin. Do not pull the skin taut when shaving, but allow the skin to sit naturally. Otherwise you may cut the hair beneath where it sits on the skin, increasing your risk of an ingrown hair.
Below is a shaving-technique video to tell you how to avoid getting shaving rash:
8. After-Shaving Care
After you finish shaving, apply a shaving lotion that contains no perfumes or dyes that could irritate the skin. Also stay away from items that could dry or irritate the skin such as saunas, hot tubs or other heat-based elements. If you have shaved near the pubic area, avoid sex for a few hours after shaving. Below is a great video of natural remedy for after-shaving care: