Maybe it’s the uncontrollable itch, those troublesome bumps, the noticeable redness or simply a combination of all three, but no matter your symptoms, post-shaving razor burn can be a truly disruptive condition.
Fortunately, skin care professionals assured us that you don’t have to choose between irritation and unwanted hair. You just have to employ good shaving practices and enlist the help of some useful aftercare products — but more on that later.
Dr. Navin S. Arora, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Borealis Dermatology in Garden City and Syosset, New York, said that razor burn is primarily caused by the friction of the blade against the skin during shaving.
“Using a dull or old razor blade can increase the likelihood of razor burn as it may pull on the hair rather than cutting it cleanly,” Arora said, adding that improper shaving techniques like applying too much pressure, shaving against the natural growth of the hair and not using creams or gels while shaving can all make matters worse.
He also said that aside from the discomfort, razor burn left unattended can lead to infection and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in more severe cases.
Let’s say even after doing everything right during the shaving process, you’re still dealing with irritation. Arora and other experts shared the best products and ingredients to use in your care routine, whether you’re shaving your bikini line, face or underarms.
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We picked this non-drying alcohol-free witch hazel solution by Thayers because it's been formulated to maintain skin's moisture barrier and also contains aloe vera, an ingredient also recommended by Arora. It can help razor burned skin feel more calmed, smoother and more hydrated.
This skin protectant boasts a 2% colloidal oatmeal concentration, shea butter and other emollients to calm skin and stave off dryness in a unique gel-cream formula that's instantly cooling upon application.
"Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help alleviate itching and inflammation associated with razor burn," Arora said. "Use it sparingly and as directed, as prolonged use can have side effects."
We found this popular and maximum strength cream that claims to provide lasting relief from itch and irritation. It also contains aloe vera, a known soother that you'll see highlighted multiple times on this list.
Although there are many benzoyl peroxide products available over the counter, we selected this cream-based cleanser that can be used to clear up razor burn on the face. Aside from the 5% benzoyl peroxide, the Naturium cleanser is made with a special type of amino sugar that can help maintain healthy skin and remove impurities without being too harsh or drying.
Frequently endorsed by dermatologists, this custard-like cream features the brand's signature formula of hydrating hyaluronic acid and three essential ceramides fundamental to maintaining the skin's natural barrier, something that's compromised with razor burn. I have used this cream for several years and it's never failed to deeply hydrate my skin and fight off post-shaving irritation, especially on my legs and bikini area.
"Designed to soothe and calm the skin, this cream also contains shea butter and panthenol to soften and smooth the skin, while also using glycerin to help draw moisture in," Garshick said. "It contains madecassoside, which is derived from the centella asiatica plant, helping to heal and calm the skin."
"Containing 100% pure petrolatum, this ointment helps to provide a protective barrier to protect the skin from worsening irritation while also allowing the skin to heal," Garshick said, adding that it can be applied as needed.
Before You Go
