5 min read
How to stop razor burn before, during and after shaving
What is razor burn? Razor burn is those sore, red and often bumpy patches that sometimes appear after shaving – and it’s no joke. Sometimes, you get razor burn on the neck, face or even on your chest. And whilst it can affect anyone, it’s a particular worry for anyone with sensitive skin. That’s why we’re here to help you learn not only how to prevent it, but what helps razor burn when you’ve got it. Here are 6 excellent ways to prevent and treat razor burn before, during and after shaving:
How to prevent razor burn before shaving
Simply put, prevention is the best way to avoid razor burn. Soothing treatments and products can help calm the skin after the damage is done but prevention will always remain the best thing for razor burn. So, you need to know how to stop razor burn:
1. Exfoliate and cleanse
Always start your shave by washing and exfoliating your face – it’s worth the five extra minutes. Exfoliation is key, as it shifts the dead skin cells and dirt from the top layer of your skin and brings ingrown hairs to the surface. Once out of the shower, give your skin at least a 5-minute break before shaving. The heat from the shower opens the pores on your face, which is great for shaving, but it also makes your skin hot and puffy, which can prevent a good shave.
2. Soften the hair up
It’s a good idea to use a shaving cream, lotion or gel to soften up the hair for a better shave. Using a shaving brush to apply your product can help you get a fuller coverage, before leaving it to sit for a few minutes to soften the hair further. Soft hair will be much easier to shave.
Now you know what you should do to prepare yourself before a shave, but you also need to know how to prevent razor burn during, as well
How to stop razor burn while shaving
Bad shaving is one of the most common causes of razor burn. Try working on your shaving technique with these two easy steps:
1. Shave better
With a manual razor, you’re often scraping against the skin, removing a thin layer each time. As you can imagine, this can easily lead to cuts and irritation, causing razor burn. Using an electric shaver, like Philips Series 9000 Prestige shaver, in a circular motion can help you get at hairs without multiple passes, as it helps the hairs to stick up. Use only light pressure and try not to go over the same area repeatedly. The result? An easier (and pain-free) experience. With SkinIQ technology, the Prestige shaver adapts to the contours of your skin for a comfortable, smooth shave.
2. Work with clean, sharp tools
Make sure to rinse your shaver or razor before, after, and during the shave at regular intervals. If you’re using a manual razor, remember to replace it often – dull blades will need more passes to catch the hairs, causing irritation.
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How to treat razor burn after shaving
Even if you’ve given your skin the gentlest shave of all time, you can still get razor burn. That’s why aftercare is important. Here’s how to treat razor burn:
1. Apply soothing products
If you’re suffering, then you need to know how to soothe razor burn, otherwise you’ll drive yourself mad. After you shave, rinse your skin with warm water and pat it dry – don’t rub! Then, apply a moisturiser or aftershave balm – avoid anything alcohol-based, as this will dry your skin and can cause irritation (remember that infamous stinging sensation after a shave? That’s an alcohol-based product seeping into your freshly shaved face).
2. Wait for longer intervals between shaves
If you’re particularly prone to razor burn, it can help to give yourself and your skin a break between shaves to let your skin recover. A break from shaving and frequent moisturising to see how your skin reacts is great for teaching you how to treat razor burn, especially if it’s particular to your face.That’s it, now you know how to help razor burn, from prevention before and during, to aftercare and how to soothe razor burn. If you shake up your shaving routine with our tips, you’ll soon start seeing a difference.
Now you know what to do before, during and after a shave to treat razor burn before it hits. If you’re still having difficulties, experiment with wet and dry shaving to find the best shaving method for you.
