Razor Burn

Razor Burn

Shaving is a quick and easy way to get rid of unwanted hair, but it doesn’t come without its drawbacks. Razor burn is a common skin condition characterized by red, itchy, irritated patches of skin that looks a bit like a rash and can be found anywhere razor meets skin. But intimate areas like underarms and the bikini line tend to be more sensitive, and therefore are more prone to razor burn. Here’s what you need to know if your razor is leaving its mark.

What Causes Razor Burn?

Different people experience razor burn for different reasons, but there are a few common culprits behind most post-shave irritation.

  • Too Much Friction
You might think of shaving cream as more of a luxury than a necessity, but it could be the only thing standing between your skin and razor burn! If you’re prone to razor burn or folliculitis, our Microbiome Balancing Wash doubles as a velvety-soft shaving cream. It’s moisturizing formula helps soften skin and prevent uncomfortable razor burn while inhibiting bacteria and fungi that can lead to infected hair follicles.
  • Too Much Pressure
It’s tempting to push your razor down harder to try and achieve a closer shave, but that can lead to razor burn. Use a gentle touch for a smooth shave without irritation.
  • Dull Blades

If your blade isn’t sharp enough, you may have to push harder to cut the hair, leading to more friction and more ouch. Replace your razor after five uses to keep things sharp!

  • Wrong Temps

When skin is exposed to cold water, it constricts - leading to more razor resistance and irritation. It’s best to shower with warm water first and leave shaving until the end so skin is relaxed. After shaving, you can rinse skin with cool water to close pores.

How to Soothe Razor Burn

If you’ve got razor burn, the first thing to do is to stop shaving the area until it calms down. This may take a week or so, but stay patient! For immediate relief from the itching and irritation, there’s no better answer than Rescue Balm. The secret? Ingredients, baby! Colloidal oatmeal, zinc oxide, shea butter, and squalene help soothe, hydrate, and protect skin so you can do other things besides think about your razor burn. 

If your razor burn doesn’t clear up on it’s own in a few days or you notice pimple-like bumps, you may want to consult your medical professional. It could be ingrown hair or infected hair follicles (folliculitis).

How to Avoid Razor Burn

The right shaving equipment and technique can go a long way. But the best thing you can do to prevent razor burn is to exfoliate the area first. Buff & Brighten uses the gentle exfoliating power of AHA and BHA to remove dead skin cells and excess oils that can get in the way of a smooth shave and lead to irritation. Plus, it’s got aloe vera, witch hazel and allantoin to help soothe razor burn anywhere you’ve got it.

 

Shaving Tips & Tricks

  • Exfoliate first!
  • Always use shaving cream
  • Use warm water
  • Shave in the direction of hair growth
  • Use short, light strokes
  • Replace your blade every 5-7 uses
  • Moisturize skin after shaving
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