Barbershop Blog

What Is Razor Burn And What Are The Causes?

Razor burn, which is also sometimes called shaving rash, is an irritation of the skin that results in redness and inflammation. This can be caused by a number factors like a poor pre-shave preparation, inferior soaps and creams, shaving aggressively or shaving with dull blades. The rash typically appears within a few minutes after shaving and those with sensitive skin are more prone to outbreaks.

How to Avoid Razor Burn

Start by applying some heat to the face before shaving, a hot shower or hot towel is ideal. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to rash, try a pre-shave cream. This will help soften the beard and defend the skin from the razor. 

Invest in high quality soaps and creams and never dry shave. The creams hydrating properties swell and soften the hair which results in less tug and pull and less friction on the skin. We recommend the white line from Proraso for sensitive and easily irritated skin. It includes extracts of green tea and oatmeal that soothe, help to prevent redness and leave the skin soft. 

It goes without saying that a sharp razor must always be used, a dull blade is the fasted route to a bad razor burn. Don’t be overly aggressive with your razor and don’t shave against the grain. Once you have wiped off the cream with a pass of the blade, be mindful of repeating strokes without cream as there is less lubrication and this can lead to irritation.

To finish, apply after shave balm and massage into the skin to facilitate absorption. This will soothe and protect the skin from the stresses of the shave.

Treatments For Razor Burn

If you experience discomfort or redness after shaving you can seek immediate relief by applying cold water or a cool washcloth to the area. Apply moisturiser or after shave balm to reduce inflammation. Refrain from shaving until the area has healed which it should do naturally in time.

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