Recently
we wrote a blog on how to
prevent razor burn. But it occurred to us that we should also address how to cure razor burn if you already have
it. Because while prevention is key, no technique is 100% foolproof. Thankfully, knowing how to minimize symptoms will
save you a lot of pain and annoyance. Read on for some effective post-shaving skincare tips that calm those unsightly
red patches. We’ve included both short-term and long-term fixes.
My skin itches, hurts, and generally looks
angry. What should I do? We’ll be going over 5 methods to treat razor burn:
- Stop shaving for a while
- Apply an ice pack
- Avoid products with alcohol
- Consider aloe vera, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid
- Rethink your skincare routine
Fix It: Stop Shaving for a While
Time heals all wounds, at least when
shaving is concerned. Put down the razor and let your skin breathe for a few days. Your skin will naturally heal itself.
Just remember to use our razor burn prevention tips the next time you shave. During this growing out period keep skin
clean by washing your face regularly – this will prevent pores from clogging and aggravating razor burn. Apply an
antibiotic to infected sites.
Apply an ice pack / Apply an ice pack or ice cubes to the
affected area in thirty-second intervals. The swelling and redness should go down quickly.
Avoid products
with alcohol / Pouring alcohol onto skin affected by razor burn is like twisting the knife.
Alcohol is an excellent antiseptic, but it seriously dries out skin and can clog pores, leading to more razor burn.
Further minimize irritation by avoiding bar soap and anything with fragrance, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Consider aloe vera, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid / ALOE VERA is an analgesic (a
painkiller) that fights irritation and swelling while forming a moisturizing barrier that promotes skin healing. Aloe
vera contains two hormones, Axim and Gibberellin, that have superior wound healing properties. We recommend applying
some
aloe vera lotion or gel
right after shaving. Because aloe vera is gentle and non-greasy, it’s suitable for both oily and sensitive skin types.
If you tend to break out after you shave, aloe vera’s got you covered there, too – it contains salicylic acid to destroy
bacteria that leads to inflammation. GLYCOLIC ACID is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), a type of acid found in fruit and
milk. Glycolic acid exfoliates skin by dissolving the outermost layer of cells to trigger repair. This means razor burn
and bumps will heal faster. Glycolic acid regenerates collagen and evens your skin tone. Used regularly, glycolic acid
can enable you to shave daily with minimal irritation. SALICYLIC ACID is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), a type of acid found
in plants. Salicylic acid is similar to glycolic acid in that it removes the top layer of dead skin cells, though it is
slightly gentler. Salicylic acid helps break down whiteheads and blackheads, reducing breakouts. This function is
especially useful if you shave and have pimples.
Our tips:
- Use a shaving cream with salicylic acid for a closer shave: these shaving creams tighten the skin and narrow
pores to create a barrier between you and pimple-inducing bacteria. Finish with a salicylic acid aftershave to
keep skin moisturized and clean.
- Salicylic acid can be used in conjunction with glycolic acid – start at lower concentrations for both and work
your way up as it suits your skin.
Rethink Your Skincare Routine
Moisturized skin is resilient skin, and resilient skin is less
likely to react adversely to shaving. Everyone has a different skin type, and how your skin reacts can also vary
depending on climate, weather, and age. We can give you every tip in the book for wet shaving, but none of it will
matter if you’re starting off with compromised skin. Skincare is a weak spot for most men, but such a vital part of a
quality wet shaving experience. We will cover proper skincare in future posts, so stay tuned!
Product Recommendations:
SHOP: 1. Lab
Series Skincare for Men Razor Burn Relief Ultra, 2. Geo F
Trumper Fragrance Free Moisturizing Lotion, 3. Dreadnought Cooling
Moisturizer, 4. C.O. Bigelow
Premium Shaving Cream, 5. Ernest Supplies Face Wash, 6.
Beardition After Shave.
