How To Stop Razor Burn

We've all experienced it at one point in our lives.

When we just started shaving, when we switched products, or when we were careless.

Razor burns. We've all also asked ourselves the same question.

"How to stop razor burn?" 

Before we can answer this burning question, we need to answer another.

What does razor burn look like?

If you're reading this blog, there's a strong chance you already have an idea. But to tackle any problem, we first need to define it. So for those who don't know...

Razor burn, also known as razor bumps or shaving rash, is a common men's skincare complaint. It takes the form of a red rash or spots that appear after shaving.

Its clinical name is folliculitis, and it is a mild infection of the hair follicles which causes inflammation.

The most common symptoms are small red bumps or a red rash that leaves a hot, burning sensation and itchiness. It's a problem that can not only affect your face but anywhere that you may be shaving.

While many use them interchangeably, Razor bumps are technically different from Razor burn.

Razor bumps refer to bumps that appear on your skin when the hair starts to grow back. Razor bumps are caused by shaving against the grain of your hair and are new hairs becoming ingrown. Fortunately, the prevention and treatment for Razor bumps are the same as for razor burn.

In a nutshell, Razor burn is unfortunate, uncomfortable, and unsightly.

However, it is not unavoidable.

What causes razor burn?

A lousy shaving routine often causes razor burn.

It's no surprise. You wake up late, and you don't have time to shave correctly, so you rush it. You grab your razor and quickly hack away at your face, trying to look respectable for your first meeting.

The problem is by the time you arrive at that meeting; your neck is covered in a red itchy rash that doesn't look good and distracts you all day. To avoid razor burn, it's crucial to take the time to shave properly. Try following this Shaving Checklist.

1. Use a fresh, clean razor blade
2. Exfoliate before shaving to remove dead skin cells
3. Use warm water to open your pores and soften the hair
4. Use a quality shaving lubricant. It can be an Oil, Gel, or Cream
5. Figure out how your hair grows and shave in the same direction
6. Use short, clean strokes
7. Rinse the blade regularly
8. After shaving, rinse off with cool water to close your pores
9. Apply a post-shave balm that contains natural cooling ingredients such as Aloe Vera
10. Take your time

But even if your shaving game on point, you could still be experiencing razor burn.

It is likely an issue with sensitive skin.

You could fill the shaving products you're using with a whole host of harsh chemicals that are causing further inflammation and irritation to your skin. Common offenders are Parabens, Sulfates, Emulsifiers, and Mineral Oil.

Try switching to shaving products from organic natural ingredients that are less likely to cause reactions with sensitive skin. Avoid alcohol at all costs. Alcohol dries out your skin, leading to further irritation. 

But what if it's already too late and you're already suffering from Razor Burn?

How do you get rid of razor burn?

The unfortunate truth is you can't get rid of razor burn overnight. It usually takes 2-3 days to go away on its own. When it comes to razor burn, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

However, you can do things to speed up the healing process, reduce inflammation, and end the constant itching.

1. Gently wash the area with warm water and a natural face and body wash
2. Rinse your face with cold water to close your pores
3. Apply a cold compress to help cool your skin and reduce redness
4. Moisturize with a good quality natural men's facial moisturizer
5. Try not to scratch your face - you'll only make things worse
6. Be patient

After shaving, always use an aftershave. Some men prefer aftershave lotions, but we recommend using an aftershave balm without alcohol. Shaving can dry out your skin, causing it to feel tight, and using quality, natural aftershave balm for men re-hydrates your skin right when it needs it most. 

If you'd like to know more about the difference between aftershave lotion and aftershave balm, click here to read our blog: Aftershave Balm Vs. After Shave Lotion - What's The Difference?

Natural remedies for razor burn

The best men's aftershave balms leave out the alcohol (which can dry and irritate your skin) and use natural ingredients to cool and soothe your skin. 

Look for these natural ingredients: 

1. Vitamin E - Protects your post-shave skin from environmental damage like pollution and cigarette smoke. Vitamin E is considered an antioxidant superhero. It deeply hydrates post-shave skin to calm irritation.
   
   
2. Aloe Vera Leaf Juice - Aloe Babadensis's nourishing properties promote minor wound, burn and rash healing. It is an excellent natural moisturizer and emollient. It is a skin/hair soother, healer, repairer, and collagen booster.
   
   
3. White Tea Leaf Extract - White tea is a lightly oxidized tea. Studies have shown that white tea has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and can strengthen and protect the skin matrix. Its rejuvenating impact sets it apart from other tea-based skincare agents. White tea can provide partial protection from UV damage caused by the sun.
   
   
4. Witch Hazel - An excellent natural alternative to alcohol. It's anti-bacterial (perfect for cuts and nicks) but also soothes your skin and won't leave you with inflammation after shaving.
   
   
5. Allantoin - Allantoin's anti-inflammatory, healing, calming, and nourishing properties help stimulate healthy skin cell growth.
   
   
6. Chamomile Flower Extract - Chamomile Flower Extract has soothing, healing, and anti-inflammatory properties and helps cool and calm sensitive skin.
   
   
7. Menthol - Menthol is a natural cooling astringent for the skin, scalp, and body. 

Summary

Razor burn sucks, but with the right tools and preparation, you can avoid it. It's essential to take the time to shave properly and with the right products. Find what works best for you, your skin type, and hair growth. We always recommend using a natural aftershave balm that does not contain alcohol. 

Our natural aftershave balm for men is made with natural and soothing ingredients that cool and soothe your skin post-shave.

In most cases, razor burn should resolve itself after a couple of days. Suppose you're doing everything mentioned here, and you are still having constant serious issues. In that case, you should consult a medical professional as it could something else causing a rash.

Good luck and happy shaving.