The best magazine
There are a number of ways to approach it, from chemical "depilatories" to electric shavers, but by far the most prevalent tool is the razor.
The downside to using it, of course, is the dreaded razor burn.
Razor burn occurs after shaving off protruding hair follicles and irregular skin surfaces, and can lead to ingrown hairs, rashes and, in the worst scenario, infection.
It is primarily inadequate preparation and inferior technique that is to blame.
What you should do Because razor burn causes scabbing and an irregular skin surface, one very basic treatment is to avoid shaving again until you have fully healed.
During this time you can do a number of things to accelerate the healing process:
- Use an "exfoliating cleanser" every day, one that contains salicylic acid, to remove the dead skin cells that may prevent airflow to the razor burn area.
- Wash gently and do not "scrub" the razor burn with anything, as it can be painful - and start the bleeding all over again.
- To speed healing and soothe the razor burn, try a cream, spray or ointment that contains aloe vera or tea tree oil.
Consider a single-blade or wire guard-equipped razor for the time being so as not to aggravate the skin.
What you shouldn't do When your razor burns heals and you resume shaving, continue with the recommended steps above, but take care to avoid certain things, too:
- Do not use products with alcohol, as it dries the skin and actually increases irritation and reduces healing effects.
- Never scrub, scratch or pick at your razor burn, as these actions will aggravate the affected skin and subject you to infection risk.
- Stop using colognes or perfumes on the razor burn area.
If you develop smart grooming habits, you can put the irritated skin and blood-specked collars behind you.
The new shaving regimen You should make a commitment to following these steps for a few weeks, to see how they work for you.
You can adjust and customize the approach to your liking, but don't get too creative with your razor burn treatments without doing "due diligence" to find out if your plan is sensible.
Here are some proven ways to keep razor burn at bay:
- Get your skin and hair ready for shaving, and help them resist razor burn, by bathing and exfoliating first.
- If your skin is not overly sensitive, you can use a loofah sponge or nylon shower "puff," otherwise apply an exfoliating cream or lotion (with salicylic acid) by hand or with a washcloth.
This removes skin oils, dirt and dead skin so blades glide smoothly, preventing razor burn. - Try coating the area to be shaved with lotion or skin cream a few minutes before shaving, but do it gently and don't rub it on.
This will soften your hair, make shaving easier and help prevent the razor burn in the first place. - You can also wet a washcloth with hot, steamy water and hold it to your skin for several minutes to accomplish the same thing.
- Make sure to use a blade that is clean and sharp, and shave in slow, short, even strokes.
Run the razor under hot water between stokes to clean it, as one leading cause of razor burn is a blade clogged with soap and hair not resting evenly against the skin. - Hold your skin, but don't stretch it, and use only the minimum amount of pressure needed.
Razor burn is a result of both friction and force working on uneven skin, so be gentle with yourself after following these preparatory steps.
This will close your pores as well as feel good! Then apply a lotion with aloe vera or tea tree oil to moisturize, soften and soothe your skin.
If you are still getting razor burn, numerous nicks and ingrown hairs, you may wish to consider some alternative hair removal approaches.
Common "depilatories" (hair removers) are sold as creams and powders to remove hair.
Finally, you could always go to the barber or beautician and turn your shaving needs over to a professional!
Source: ...