How to Calm Razor Burn

Shaving against the natural hair growth direction can trigger razor burn.

Shaving incorrectly can result in red, chafed, irritated skin, also known as razor burn. Using the wrong products and dull razor blades can also trigger the unpleasant skin condition. Whether it's your facial skin, your legs or your bikini-line area, the red, bumpy skin is unsightly and can affect your self-confidence. Ideally, you should avoid razor burn. However, if you're already plagued with razor burn, you can learn how to reduce the inflammation and keep it from worsening.

Things You'll Need

• Cold compress
• 1 percent hydrocortisone cream
• 2 aspirin tablets
• Water
• Washcloth
• Witch hazel
• Loose clothing

Instructions

1. Place a cold compress on the inflamed skin. This can be an ice pack, a pack of frozen peas or a washcloth wet with cold water. The cold will take down the inflammation and soothe the skin.

2. Apply 1 percent hydrocortisone cream to the irritated skin. Hydrocortisone cream narrows the blood vessels, so the blood flow to the irritated area reduces. Redness and stinging slowly dissipate. Use hydrocortisone only two times on one day of the week; frequently applying hydrocortisone cream can have an adverse affect.

3. Make your own razor burn treatment. Place two aspirin tablets in a small bowl. Crush the tablets and add enough warm water to make a spreadable paste. Spread the paste over your razor burn to help heal your skin. Leave the spread on your skin for 15 minutes before wiping it off with a wet washcloth.

4. Dab witch hazel on your razor burn. Witch hazel is a natural astringent and will soothe your skin.

5. Wear loose clothing. Tight clothes that rub over your skin can irritate the razor burn and worsen it.

6. Avoid shaving over the inflamed skin because this only worsens the irritation or stimulates it to return. Give your skin time to heal. As a more skin-friendly alternative, remove any undesired hair growth with a depilatory cream.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult your doctor if your razor burn persists and maintains a burning, throbbing sensation; an infection may have set in.

References

• Mother Nature: Razor Burn
• Everyday Health; Razor Burn Treatment and Prevention; Madeline Vann
• "Marie Claire": Razor Burn
• Daily Glow: Razor Rash Treatment for Men