RAZOR BURN

Symptoms of razor burn may include:

• Redness
• Stinging
• Bumps

TREATMENT

The best remedy for razor burn is simply to stop shaving. But if you can’t avoid it because of certain reasons, the following remedies may help:

• Shave less often, perhaps two or three times a week
• Use chemical depilatories instead of shaving
• Use an electric shaver
• Don’t try to get a close shave
• Consider electrolysis or laser hair removal
• Post-shave lotions containing niacinamide may reduce moisture loss, chapping, red skin, and other symptoms of razor burn.
• A good shaving technique can reduce razor burn. The proper technique includes:
  • Using a new or sharp razor
  • Wetting the area to be shaved beforehand

• Shaving only in the direction that the hair grows

PREVENTION

The best way to deal with razor burn is to prevent it in the first place. Several simple methods may prevent or reduce razor burn such as:

• Cleaning the skin before shaving (perhaps using an exfoliant scrub)
• Wetting the hair and skin before shaving
• Replacing your razor blade regularly
• Shaving in the direction hair grows
• Patting the skin dry gently after shaving
• Applying a skin moisturizer after shaving (preferably containing emollients or glycerin)

Dermatologists suggest replacing a razor blade after five to seven uses.