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Whether you shave once a week or every day, you’re bound to get razor burn at some point. No matter how careful you are to replace your razor regularly, lather up properly, wear a quality aftershave, and take all the steps for a good shave, sometimes you can still end up with the stinging burn.
When that happens, relieving the pain and eliminating the redness is a matter of acting quickly and applying the right treatments. Here are some simple and effective ways to minimize razor burn.
Leave the Skin Alone
The number one rule for both preventing and treating razor burn is to keep your hands off the shaved area. The oils and friction of your fingers against your sensitive skin will only irritate it further. It increases the risk of inflammation or infection as well. After about 24 hours, you’ll have overcome the worst of the burn if you’ve left it alone.
Natural Oils
There are many oils that can be used to hydrate and soften the skin. As such, it minimizes the risk of tenderness, itching, and burning after a shave. The most popular oils used for treating the skin include:
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Sweet almond oil
- Avocado oil
- Tea tree oil
Each oil has an emollient effect, softening and soothing the skin. Many of these oils, such as tea tree, also have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to help prevent a bad reaction.
Cold and Hot Compress
If you’re looking for something to soothe the burn, a cold compress can do wonders. Just run a washcloth under cold water. You could put it in the fridge for a few minutes as well. Apply for about 20 minutes, re-wetting the cloth as it warms against your skin.
A hot compress can also be effective for those who suffer from ingrown hairs. It opens the pores and allows the follicles to have freedom, reducing the burn of these bumps.
Astringent Products
Any astringent liquid or astringent-based product can naturally reduce inflammation, banish redness, and soothe the burn. Popular astringents include:
- Black tea
- Tea tree oil mixed with water
- Apple cider vinegar
- Witch hazel extract
Oatmeal Compote or Bath
Oatmeal is one of the best ingredients for treating skin issues. It’s a natural anti-inflammatory, anti-itch remedy, and antioxidant. You can mix oatmeal with astringent liquids or water to create a compote. You can also create a warm oatmeal bath to provide relief for symptoms.
Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda has many uses including baking, cleaning, and treating skin ailments. Create a paste by mixing water with baking soda and applying it to the skin like a face mask. Rinse with warm water and repeat twice a day until symptoms disappear.
Razor Burn Lotions
Lotions are convenient and easy to apply, and there are many over-the-counter products that are formulated to treat razor burn. High-quality aftershave is a great product, as are diaper rash creams for babies. You might feel a little silly putting Desitin on your skin, but it can feel wonderful.
Antibiotics and Antiseptic Ointments
If you’re prone to bumpy skin and ingrown hairs, treating a potential infection is very important. Bumps can become infected and very painful. You may need antibiotics prescribed by a doctor if an infection occurs.
Antiseptic or antibacterial ointments can help to prevent infection. If you have ingrown hairs or a cut from shaving, applying triple antibiotic ointment or another antiseptic cream can stop a serious infection.
Aloe Vera Gel
Very few natural products cool the burn as well as aloe vera gel. It not only soothes painful skin but also brings down inflammation. Aloe vera is most effective when squeezed directly from the plant, but you can easily buy a bottle of aloe vera gel from any drug store. Place the bottle in the refrigerator before applying for an ultra cooling effect.
Hydrocortisone Cream
Hydrocortisone cream is a gentle steroid cream that works as an anti-inflammatory as well as an anti-itch cream. It can help you keep your hands away from the freshly shaved area so the burn can heal quickly. A little cream on your neck can also reduce razor bumps.
White Tea
Grab a bag of white tea, get it wet, and press it against the affected area. This type of tea contains tannic acid, which can bring down inflammation and eliminate redness. It’s easy and affordable, and your burn will be gone in no time.
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