Razor Burns

Shaving is a common process that both men and women undertake, to look clean and hygienic. While it makes a person appear neat and tidy, the bad part of it is that it might result in bad patches on the skin, in the form of burns. The small bumps are a result of irritation in the skin, caused by the metal razor. These bumps are known as razor burns. Razor burns usually start from a reddish mild rash, which can lead to itchiness, pain and a burning sensation as well. These burns cause an uncomfortable feeling. However, with little care and the right kind of substances used, they can be avoided as well as healed.

• Redness of the skin
• Bumps on the affected area
• Irritation in the skin
• Burning sensation on the freshly shaved area
• Chafed skin

• Excessive use of after-shaves and colognes
• Applying too much pressure while shaving
• Insufficient skin lubrication before shaving
• Shaving in the direction opposite to hair growth
• Shaving with a dirty razor
• Not using a proper lubricant while shaving
• Using disposable razors
• Frequent shaving
• Using shaving products with synthetic dyes, fragrances and alcohol
• Shaving products that contain menthol or benzocaine

• An easy way to treat razor burn at home would be to pat the area with apple cider vinegar.
• In a tsp of sour cream, mix the pulp of 2 strawberries and form a paste. Apply this paste on the affected area, as a mask, for about 10 minutes. Then, wash the area using lukewarm water. Repeat this twice a week.
• Aloe vera oil is helpful in curing razor burns. Dab the shaved area with cotton ball that has been soaked in the oil.
• Potato is effective in curing razor burns. Peel the skin of a potato and cut it in thin slices. Apply this over the affected area.
• Applying petroleum jelly over the affected area three times a day is an effective way to treat razor burns.
• Before shaving, moisten the area with a wash cloth, dipped in hot water (mixed with lavender essential oil). Pat the skin several times with this. Now, apply a thin layer of moisturizing oil, like avocado or jojoba. This will help you avoid razor burns and also make shaving an easy process.
• Mix 1 tbsp each of dried comfrey leaves and dried calendula flowers in 1/2 cup of witch hazel extract and keep it for 2 weeks. Store this lotion and use it whenever razor burns occur. It usually lasts for about 6 months.
• In ¼ cup of rose water, mix ¼ cup of strained witch hazel. In this, add 1/4 tsp vegetable glycerin, along with 5 drops each of lavender essential oil and sandalwood essential oil. Use it on the affected area. Store it in a cool place and shake it each time before use.
• Shaving in the direction of hair growth is time consuming, but is definitely one of the safest ways to avoid razor burns.