Razor Burn Treatments

Embarrassed by your unsightly skin? Alarmed by the red blotches that prevent you from wearing anything above the knees? Don't worry it’s just razor burn. However, it's not a situation that cannot be reversed. Read on to know more about how to get rid of razor burn.

What is razor burn?

Razor burn is nothing but reddening and inflammation of the skin caused by improper use of razor while shaving. A close shave cuts the hairs so short as to get them trapped inside the follicle. And when they start to grow, some of them may pierce the skin giving rise to those ugly rashes. There're plenty of ways you can get this condition, like using a dull blade, inadequate lubrication of the skin, and the like.

How to prevent razor burn?

Preventive measures are nothing out of the ordinary. You only need to be careful about certain things while shaving. Let's see what they are:

a. Change blades regularly: The one common mistake most commit is to try to take extra mileage out of the blades. This tendency may save you a bit, but takes its toll on the skin. Blades dull after about four to six shaves and should be promptly discarded. A dull, if used, can give rise to razor burn.

b. Twin and triple blades: The ads showing twin or triple blades giving smooth shaven skins certainly look inviting. But, this close shave may wreak havoc on the skin. A single blade just cuts the hair, whereas a twin or triple blade not only cuts, but scrapes the skin too. It’s akin to shaving the same area twice or thrice! So, always opt for a single blade razor.

c. Shave after bathing: It especially rings true for those with coarse hair. A shower or a bath softens hairs and makes the skin tender. This prevents the razor from dragging over the skin, like a rusty rake!

d. Use shaving cream or gel: Soap dries the skin and hinders the razor from operating smoothly, so it's best to go in for a shaving cream or gel. These keep the skin moist and prevent inflammation, since they usually contain aloe or some other soothing ingredients.

e. Shave along the grain: Shave the hair in the direction it grows. This prevents the razor from irritating the hair follicles giving rise to inflammation and razor burn.
 

How to treat razor burn?

Whatever you do for (preventing razor burn), its occurrence is generally difficult to anticipate. One wrong nick is all it takes to saddle you with a crimson patch and painful inflammation. However, there're things you can do to cure this condition:

a. Hydrocortisone cream: This product is highly effective in reducing itching and discomfort associated with razor burn. However, don't overuse it, as it can make the condition worse.

b. Moisturizing lotion: Regular use of moisturizing lotion on the skin reduces dryness and itchiness and keeps the skin tender round the clock, making shaving easy and smooth.

c. Topical acne preparation: This preparation contains some percentage of benzyl peroxide that helps relieve and minimize razor burn. This long-term treatment is especially good for those prone to razor burn.

d. Chamomile tea: To get instant relief from inflammation caused by shaving, put cold, damp tea bags on the area or soak a cloth in strong, cold chamomile tea and apply it to the irritated skin. This will prevent razor burn.

Razor burn becomes embarrassing because of its high visibility, occurring on the face or legs or on other shaved parts. However, if you know the cures and prevention, you can steer clear of this problem. But before you take any step, take your physician into confidence first!