How to cure razor burns

Causes of razor burns

• Excessive use of after-shaves and colognes

• Applying too much pressure while shaving can cause a razor burn owing to friction

• Insufficient skin lubrication is another cause

• Shaving in the direction opposite to hair growth is also a common cause for razor burns.

• Excessive use of aftershaves and colognes can compound the problem of razor burns by causing dryness.

Razor burns home remedies

• Stop shaving

• The best way to deal with razor burns is to stop shaving. Give your skin some rest and simply let your hair grow back for a while.

• Use a soothing aftershave balm if you are already suffering from razor burns.

For burning sensation

Dissolve two uncoated aspirins in a teaspoon of warm water and mix into a paste. Apply this paste on the affected area. Wash it after sometime with lukewarm water. This will take care of the burning sensation.

For razor burns

An effective razor burn mask can be made by mashing a couple of strawberries with a 1 spoon of sour cream. Apply this mixture after shaving and leave it for 10 minutes. Do this twice a week for fresh, razor burn free skin. Witch hazel, mild salicylic acid solutions and Aloe Vera gel are known to provide relief for razor burns.

Consume foods rich in Vitamin C

Although there are no specifications regarding diets to be followed for razor burns, consuming foods rich in Vitamin C should help in restoring the skin quickly.

Other suggestions

• Use warm water to soften your skin and hair prior to shaving, alternatively shave right after a shower.

• Be sure to apply shaving cream, foam or soap in the opposite direction of hair growth, taking care to moisturise your skin as well as hair thoroughly.

• Start by shaving the easier areas first like the jaw line, cheeks and neck.

• Shave in the direction of the hair growth (usually downward)

• Do not stretch your skin taut while shaving.

• Rinse your razor thoroughly after every use and replace blades every week or more often if needed.

• Electric razors that work gently on your skin prevent razor burns. Use shave oil. Applying pre-shave oil as a first layer, prior to shaving creams and gels helps soften the beard and improve the shave quality.