Home Remedies for Razor Burn
Most of you may be under the impression that cuts and scrapes sustained in shaving are razor burns. Although both are equally painful and annoying, they are not the same. Whereas cuts and scrapes are caused by improper shaving and are immediately apparent on the skin, razor burns develop after a short period.
Razor burn symptoms and causes
Picture this. You apply a new blade to your skin to get that smooth finish. And you feel quite satisfied with the end result. But, what you do in the process is to ‘trap’ a stubble or two under the skin. When these stubbles start to grow, there’s every likelihood of some piercing the skin, causing redness and inflammation and resulting in razor burns.
Preventing razor burn
Since, prevention is better than cure, try these suggestions to minimize razor burn risk:
a. Don’t use a blade repeatedly to get that magic number of shaves that the ad promises. Blades dull pretty fast, depending upon the thickness of the beard. A dull blade scrapes the skin, inviting razor burn. So, use a sharp single blade every time, but avoid twin or triple ones.
b. Soften your hair bristles, first by taking a shower, then by applying a good quality shaving cream. For some applying shaving oil or gel, rather than cream, appears more suitable. So, see what suits you best. And don’t forget to use plenty of hot water while shaving.
c. When shaving, always apply the razor in the direction of the hair growth. And don’t pass the razor over the same area again and again.
Home remedy for razor burn
There are a number of home remedies available for treating razor burn. Let us have a look at a few:
a. Preparing the skin: Home remedies can help prepare the skin for shaving that’ll not only prevent the occurrence of razor burn, but also give a smooth, close shave without causing skin irritation. A hot compress with a drop of lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) applied to skin helps make it tender and soft. And a layer of moisturizing oil, like jojoba or avocado leaves the skin soft and smooth.
b. Aloe vera: Creams containing Aloe vera are an effective home remedy for razor burn. Aloe is safe and good for skin, so use it daily to maintain a healthy skin.
c. Beta Glucan: This is an effective healing product derived from oats. It’s safe and effective and helps heal razor burn in a very short time. It’s used for all kinds of skin problems.
d.Apple cider vinegar: Its antiseptic qualities prevent infection. All you need do is to pat the affected area with it.
e. Natural after shave lotion: This soothing after shave lotion can be prepared by using dried comfrey leaves (Symphitum officinale) and dried calendula flowers (Calendula officinalis) mixed in distilled witch hazel extract (Hamamelis spp.). This extract is then mixed with rose water, vegetable glycerin, lavender essential oil and sandalwood essential oil (Santalum album). Comfrey and calendula promote skin healing, and witch hazel and rose water are mild astringents. Lavender and sandalwood calm inflammation and are gentle antiseptics, and vegetable glycerin helps to keep the skin moisturized.
f. Razor burn mask: Here’s a ladies special! A mask made from all natural ingredients using mashed strawberries mixed with sour cream. You can get relief in ten minutes flat on applying it on the face or legs. Use the mask twice a week to refresh and calm the skin.
Home remedies are an effective way to deal with the problem of razor burn. However, whatever razor burn remedy you adopt, consult your physician first.
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