Shaving 101

When it comes to shaving, having the right supplies as well as the proper technique can make — or break out — your skin. Here’s a list of tips to prevent razor burn.

• Check your head. Your razor head that is. If you use disposable blades, make sure you replace them often. When you shave, not only do you get rid of the hair, but you can also catch a little skin in the process. Using a dulled-down razor increases the risk for skin irritation and nicks and cuts. So replace your blades often.

• Enhance the blade. Many disposable razors come with aloe strips above the blades to alleviate the burn.

• Always use water. Dry shaving is the quickest way to skin irritation. Instead, try shaving in the shower. The warm water will open up your pores, allowing for easier hair removal.

• Lubrication is key. For a smoother shave, use a shave gel or cream instead of soap. Many shaving lotions contain skin-softening agents like aloe vera and vitamin E. After you shave, apply a moisturizing body lotion, which helps minimize dryness and itching, according to D'Anne Kleinsmith, M.D., a staff dermatologist at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan.

• Don’t go against the grain. One of the biggest causes of razor burn is shaving the incorrect way. Shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth will give you a closer shave but ups your risk for nicks, cuts, irritation and ingrown hairs. Shave in the direction of the hair growth, not against it. Your skin will thank you.

• Be a bedtime shaver. Shaving before bed gives your skin a chance to recuperate. If the morning is your only option, give your skin 20 minutes to breathe before getting dressed.

How to heal the burn

If the rash and red bumps have reared their ugly head, here are some tips to help alleviate the pain and get your skin back to its natural glow.

• Let it breathe. Even if you’ve taken every preventative measure, sometimes razor burn still happens. Give your skin a few days to heal before you shave again.

• Treat it to beat it. There are many products on the market to help soothe the redness and irritation associated with razor burn and bumps. For mild cases, try applying aloe vera. Another option is to use hydrocortisone cream. According to Lissa Rankin, M.D., this type of cream “acts as an anti-inflammatory and constricts raging blood vessels.” But only use hydrocortisone for major irritation, because regular use can thin the skin, she says.

• Ask the doctor. Sometimes what we think is razor burn is actually a more serious skin sensitivity or rash. If your razor burn is persistent, don’t hesitate to see your family physician or dermatologist.

Product picks

Here are a few products to try before and after shaving.

• Whish Lemongrass Shave Crave Shaving Cream Pump is a thick shaving cream that rejuvenates and moisturizes the skin, while also preventing razor burn.
• For post-shave relief, Whish Pomegranate Shave Savoir Hair Inhibiting Gel soothes the skin, prevents hair growth and heals nicks and cuts.
• Bliss Ingrown Hair Eliminating Peeling Pads alleviate razor burn and smooth stubble.

Unfortunately, razor burn is an all-too-common concern. But, thankfully, you can take some simple steps to prevent and treat those irritating bumps. The result? Smoother, healthier skin.

See also:

Whish Review: Pamper Yourself with the Perfect Shave and Body Products

Caring for Your Body

At-Home Waxing: An Inexpensive Alternative