• Skin Care
• First Aid

The 6 Most Effective Ways to Treat Razor Burn

Medically reviewed and edited by Maria Ablao APRN, FNP-C

Have you ever experienced what seemed like a smooth shave, only to later discover hundreds of tiny red spots across the freshly shaved area?

This is called razor burn and it’s easy to prevent when you use the right treatment methods and shaving techniques.

Let’s take a closer look at what these are, including how to treat existing razor burn and how to prevent it and ensure smooth skin after every shave.

What is Razor Burn?

Razor burn is a form of skin irritation that occurs after shaving. It’s characterized by redness and a burning sensation on the skin.

The irritation appears shortly after shaving and typically develops in more sensitive areas, like the face or pubic region.

However, razor burn can also appear on the legs or under the arms, depending on the cause of the rash.

Common razor burn causes

There are a number of shaving-related factors that can cause razor burn, including:

• Improper shaving techniques – including shaving too quickly – applying excessive pressure, or going against the grain of the hair 

• Using a blunt razor blade 

• Shaving without water or proper products, like shaving gel or cream

• Having sensitive skin

• Negligence of post-shave care, such as not moisturizing or using aftershave

How long does razor burn typically last?

The duration of razor burn varies, depending on your skin type and severity of the irritation. 

Typically, you can expect it to last anywhere from a few hours to several days. If the irritation persists for more than a week, it may indicate an infection or a more severe skin condition.

In these cases, speak to your doctor for an appropriate treatment strategy.

Top 6 Most Effective Razor Bump Remedies

Cold compress

A cold compress can help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin by constricting blood vessels and alleviating redness and swelling.

To make a cold compress, wrap ice cubes in a clean cloth or use a cold gel pack. Gently press it against the affected area for a few minutes and repeat throughout the day.

Try to avoid placing ice directly onto the skin as this can narrow blood vessels, causing damage that can lead to dead skin cells and tissue.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is well known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. It can also help moisturize the skin, reduce redness, and promote faster healing.

Simply apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the irritated area. To avoid irritation, use pure aloe vera without any additional ingredients.

Reapply as often as necessary to keep the skin hydrated and soothed.

Over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone cream 

Hydrocortisone cream is an effective anti-inflammatory for reducing the itching and swelling associated with razor burn.

Apply a small amount of 0.5% or 1% hydrocortisone cream to the affected area for a few days. 

Closely follow the package directions to avoid additional irritation. If your rash doesn’t clear within a week of using the product, consult your doctor. 

Aftershave products

Alcohol-free aftershave products can help moisturize and protect the skin after shaving, reducing the likelihood of developing razor burn. 

These products may also be applied to existing razor burn to help soothe the rash and prevent it from worsening.

Look for aftershave balms or lotions that contain soothing ingredients like witch hazel, chamomile, or calendula.

Avoid products that contain alcohol — which could be labeled as ethanol, isopropanol, or cetyl alcohol — to reduce the risk of further irritation.

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that can help prevent infection, especially in the event of small nicks and cuts that can occur during shaving.

It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness.

When using tea tree oil, always dilute it first. Pure tea tree oil is quite potent and can worsen irritation if applied directly to the skin.

You can dilute it with a carrier oil — like coconut or almond oil — and apply a small amount to the affected area after shaving. 

It’s good practice to perform a patch test beforehand to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction. 

This involves applying a bit of the tea tree oil mixture to the back of your hand or the inside of your arm and leaving it on for 24 to 48 hours. If no reaction occurs, it’s safe to use.

Lavender oil

Lavender oil is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it a great option to help you get rid of razor burn and prevent infection.

It also has a calming scent, which enhances relaxation after a warm shower or bath.

Like tea tree oil, lavender oil should be diluted with a carrier oil to prevent additional irritation.

Use a few drops of lavender oil in a tablespoon of carrier oil and apply it to the skin directly after shaving.

How Do You Prevent Razor Burn?

It’s relatively easy to prevent razor burn, especially when you use proper shaving techniques and skin care practices. Here are a few easy strategies to follow:

• Use a sharp razor for a clean cut and to avoid tugging the skin

• Prepare your skin for shaving by soaking it in warm water for a few minutes and using a shaving cream or gel

• Use proper shaving techniques, such as shaving in the direction of hair growth and only applying gentle pressure

• Explore alternative hair removal options to avoid frequent razor burns, such as waxing or laser therapy

These strategies can minimize your risk of razor burn, helping to keep the skin smooth and healthy after shaving.

Will Razor Burn Causes Permanent Damage to the Skin?

Most cases of razor burn are temporary and won’t cause any lasting damage if treated and managed correctly.

However, frequent occurrences of razor burn can lead to chronic irritation, which can contribute to long-term issues like hyperpigmentation and changes in skin texture.

If the razor burn is severe and left untreated, it can also cause scarring — especially if the skin becomes infected or if you scratch and pick at the affected area.

To prevent these complications, use proper shaving techniques and appropriate skin care strategies. 

Which products should you avoid when treating razor burn?

When treating razor burn, steer clear of products that may further irritate the skin and delay healing. These includes:

• Alcohol-based products: Products containing alcohol can dry out your skin and increase irritation. This includes some types of aftershaves and toners that are not formulated for sensitive skin. Look for alcohol-free products that calm the skin instead.

• Fragranced skincare products: Fragrances — whether synthetic or natural — can worsen skin irritation. It's best to use fragrance-free lotions and aftershave products on freshly shaved skin to avoid further complications.

• Exfoliating products: While exfoliation is generally beneficial for skin health, using abrasive scrubs or chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) on razor burn can cause further irritation and discomfort.

• Oily or comedogenic products: Creams or oils that can clog pores might worsen skin conditions by trapping dirt, oil, and bacteria in the hair follicle. Rather use non-comedogenic (non-clogging) and lightweight moisturizers to reduce your risk of infection.

When Should You See a Doctor About Razor Burn?

While razor burn is typically a minor irritation that can be effectively treated at home, there are certain situations where you should seek medical advice. 

These include:

• Experiencing persistent razor burn that doesn’t improve within a few days 

• Developing signs of infection, including increased redness, swelling, or pus-filled blisters

• Experiencing severe pain or discomfort that interferes with your daily life

• Experiencing razor burn often, despite taking preventative measures

• Developing additional symptoms, like fever or excessive itching

If you develop these side effects, it may be an indication of a more severe health or skin issue. 

Your doctor can perform an evaluation to diagnose your condition and recommend appropriate treatment methods.

Where Can You Learn More About Taking Care of Your Skin?

While it’s generally recommended to consult your dermatologist about skin concerns, LifeMD can help if you are worried about accompanying symptoms or infection.

A team of licensed medical professionals can provide expert advice via a virtual consultation, order lab tests,write prescriptions and help you take care of your skin.

Make an appointment with LifeMD today to learn more about taking care of your overall health — all from the comfort of your home.

Maria Ablao APRN, FNP-C

Maria, an experienced healthcare professional with over a decade in nursing, advanced to a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2020. Prioritizing prevention and holistic care, Maria emphasizes compassion and adopts a family-centered approach to providing care. Her passion for health and wellness is evident through her commitment to exercise and clean eating, serving as an example to others. Maria advocates for education and improving quality of life in conjunction with treatment.

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