Irritation After Shaving: How to Shave Without Irritation

Irritation after shaving is a common problem that many people face. But if you do the procedure correctly, you can avoid unpleasant consequences.

The article tells you what causes irritation and what to do about it.

Symptoms of Razor Bumps

Irritation after shaving often has quite clear symptoms that are easy to recognize. They can appear immediately after the procedure or appear a day later:

• Severe itching;
• Redness;
• Swelling;
• Ingrown hairs;
• Burning;
• Peeling;
• Inflammation;
• Red bumps on the skin;
• Acne.

What Causes Irritation After Shaving?

Razor burn can occur for many reasons, especially if the process is done hastily or without taking precautions.

1. Shaving on dry skin

When removing hair without pre-moistening, the skin is injured. Removing hairs is not steamed and is more challenging; it requires additional effort. Pressing on the machine leads to cuts and excessive pressure on the skin.

2. Dull blades

Dull razor blades do not cut hairs gently but scratch the skin, cause microtrauma, and increase the risk of cuts. They also do not shave hairs immediately, which means you have to run the razor over the skin several times and with tremendous pressure. This causes itching, ingrown hairs, and burning of the skin.

3. Incorrect shaving technique

Shaving against the grain can cause injury. The blade removes hair and damages the skin’s protective layer. This causes irritation and itching and contributes to improper hair growth in the future, ingrown hairs, and inflammation of the hair follicles. For the same reason, you should not press hard on the skin or repeatedly go over the same areas.

4. Wrong choice of cosmetics

Creams, lotions, and oils used before, during, and after shaving may contain too much alcohol or fragrances and may not suit your skin type. Such products cause irritation and itching, as well as other unpleasant symptoms. Therefore, it is better to consult a dermatologist before using them.

5. No makeup

It is essential to pay attention to suitable shaving gels, foams, and moisturizing lotions. They soften the skin, retain moisture, and minimize the damage caused by the painful procedure.

6. Shaving too often

Daily use of a razor can damage your skin and increase the risk of irritation.

7. Tight synthetic clothing

Suppose you put on clothes that are too tight or made of poor-quality materials immediately after the procedure. In that case, this increases the risk of irritation. Cleanly shaved skin now directly contacts fabrics that rub or cause increased sweating. Also, particles of washing powder or other detergents remain on the clothes, improving the itching.

How to shave without irritation

Irritation after shaving can be avoided if you approach the process carefully and devote enough time to it.

1. Prepare your skin. It is best to steam your skin before shaving. It will become softer, your pores will open, and hair removal will not be as painful. Ideally, do the procedure after a hot shower and in the evening; this way, your skin will have time to recover overnight.
2. Use new blades. Use a fresh razor whenever possible. Different types of razors will have different shelf lives. However, shave sensitive areas with a new blade each time for best results.
3. Choose cosmetics. Choose pre-and post-shave products according to your skin type. Make sure they do not contain alcohol, fragrances, or aggressive perfumes. Allow moisturizing aftershave lotions to thoroughly soak in, and do not go outside immediately after the procedure. Rinse your face with cold water immediately after shaving. Use a cooling gel, such as pure aloe vera or witch hazel. You can also buy special hypoallergenic oils or lotion to soothe your skin after shaving.
4. Shave correctly.  You should not do the procedure on the run; you should have enough time to carry out all its stages calmly. Pull the skin taut and shave in the direction in which the hair grows. Do not move the razor several times over the same skin area. Rinse it after each movement. Do not apply force or press the razor; this can cause damage.
5. Razor care. If you use a reusable razor, you should check it before each use. Rinse it thoroughly after shaving. Do not store the razor near water to avoid the growth of bacteria. Store it in a dry place. Wipe the blades with alcohol before and after use. If the blade is damaged, rusted, or dulled, replace it.

How to remove irritation after shaving

If irritation cannot be avoided, you can alleviate the symptoms and speed up healing.

1. Avoid touching. Avoid touching the affected areas to avoid increasing itching, contamination, and infection. Also, avoid shaving until the irritation has passed.
2. Apply cold compresses. An excellent, damp compress can help relieve itching and reduce inflammation. Take a clean washcloth and wet it under cold running water. Wring out any excess and apply to the affected area. Repeat until relief is achieved.
3. Use astringent liquids. Compresses based on astringent liquids help with irritation from shaving. For example, itching and inflammation can be relieved by cooled, strongly brewed black tea without aromatic additives, tea tree oil, or witch hazel extract. They can be applied to the affected areas or diluted with water.
4. Wear loose clothing. Until the inflammation subsides, loose clothing made of natural fabrics that have minimal contact with the irritated areas of the skin is preferred.
5. Use emollients. Apply natural avocado, coconut, olive, and sweet almond oils to the affected areas. They moisturize and soften the skin well. Aloe vera gel, often used for burns and cuts, also relieves itching and redness. It has soothing properties and is suitable for sensitive skin.

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