What is a shaving rash?
A shaving rash, also called razor burn, is a skin irritation that occurs after shaving, usually appearing after a few minutes. It’s typically characterized by redness, bumps, itchiness, or a burning sensation on the skin. This is not the same as razor bumps which are caused by ingrown hairs.
What causes a Shaving Rash?
There are several causes of shaving rash:
- Dry shaving
- Pressing too hard
- Using a dull blade
- Shaving against the direction of your hair
- Using a razor that’s clogged with hair soap or cream,
- Shaving an area too many times or too quickly
- Using shaving products that irritate your skin
- Using harsh products
How to prevent shaving rash
Prepare the skin properly. Hydrate the skin & hair before shaving. It's often best to shave after a warm shower or apply a warm towel to your face for a few minutes. This softens the hair and opens the pores, making for a smoother shave.
Use a sharp razor. A dull blade will result in more tugging and pulling.
Use shaving cream or soap. The lather produced helps your razor glide across your face. When the hair is hydrated it swells and softens allowing your razor to glide through the hair more easily. The result of this is less tugging and pulling of the hair and less scraping, which leads to less irritation.
Shave in the direction of hair growth: Shaving against the grain can cause more irritation, so try to shave in the direction your hair grows
Take your time. Use light short strokes. Take care not to go over the same area too many times.
Aftercare. After shaving rinse your skin with cold water or apply a cold washcloth to close pores.
If you have cut or nicked the skin whilst shaving, use a styptic pen or alum block to treat the bleeding. These are an astringent which helps stop the bleeding and contain an antiseptic to soothe the skin.
Consider using an aftershave balm. This is a hydrating cream or gel that helps to soothe inflamed skin and speed up the recovery process after shaving
Soothing a shaving rash
One of the simplest and cheapest ways to soothe the itch is to apply a cool washcloth to the affected area for 10-15 minutes
You could try aloe or avocado oil applied directly to the skin to cool the affected area
Alternatively, you could use an aftershave balm, lotion or other moisturizer. Avoid products that contain alcohol because they can further irritate, the skin
The Groomed Man recommendations:
Merkur 33C Double Edge Safety Razor
A short-handled safety razor with a knurled handle makes a firm grip.
Taylor of Old Bond Street shaving cream
A luxury shaving cream that creates a uniquely smooth and creamy lather. It doesn’t just protect the skin, it also moisturises to help give a better shave. Available in a range of fragrances.