5 Tricks to Prevent Getting Gnarly Razor Burns After a Haircut

A razor burn is an irritation that happens when you shave your skin by accident. In effect, the condition manifests as red spots on certain areas. It can also be considered a form of irritant contact dermatitis. 

The symptoms are easy to spot as people experiencing it may feel a burning sensation coupled with itching and stinging. Although everyone can experience razor burns, it’s easy to avoid getting them. Read on below to learn a few tricks on how to dodge a razor burn.

1. Use Sterile Tools

Besides the unruly facial hair, shaving also removes the topmost layer of the skin. It is the layer that contains all the dead skin cells, revealing the healthy and supple skin underneath. When shaving, ensure it involves a sterile procedure. Use sanitized tools well to guarantee safety before they touch your skin.

Unfortunately, non-sterile tools may cause the spread of bacteria on your skin’s surface. The issue can worsen when the shaved area is barren dry during the procedure. It pays to wash your hands and cleanse your razor with alcohol before and after use.

2. Remember to Moisturize

Performing a wet shave is the best way to avoid getting razor burns. Although it’s common to do a dry shave, a wet shave may bring more benefits, such as a fresh feeling after.

As the name suggests, a wet shave is a technique that requires a damp surface. Products such as shaving gels, creams, and clean water can help achieve a wet and burn-free razor shave. Before performing it, make sure to trim the excess hair first, cleanse, and lather up.

3. Go Along the Grain

In the past, people have advocated for shaving against the grain. It is believed that going against the direction to where the hair grows can produce a cleaner shave. However, it was later debunked and proven only to make the situation worse. As the hair grows against the person’s skin, it tends to become ingrown hair, leading to irritation and painful bumps.

4. Find a Good Shaving Cream

Stop reaching for the wrong products every time you shave. It’s time to normalize using quality shaving cream to achieve a smoother, cleaner finish. Sure, soap does work for shaving skin. However, it might contribute to a worsened razor burn. Keep in mind that not all shower products are razor-friendly. Choose only the best for your skin.

It’s best to find a shaving cream with aloe vera, allantoin, or oatmeal ingredients to promote a soothing feeling on the skin. It’s also good to buy products with a nourishing and hydrating base like shea butter, lanolin, or jojoba oil.

5. Do Not Shave Frequently

Lastly, shaving shouldn’t be a daily routine. Instead, take your time in performing your next shave. At least allow the skin to regenerate and rebuild itself before grabbing your razor again.

Constant shaving leads to heavier strokes or more than what your skin can handle. In the meantime, continue to hydrate your skin and wait for a few days, even weeks, to shave again.

Conclusion

Shaving can be challenging, both for men and women. However, it is one of the most effective ways to keep your skin healthy and hygienic. Although it is difficult to do it the first time, constantly performing a shave should make the process easier the next few tries. By avoiding razor burns, shaving should be an opportunity to feel fresh and young for the time being.

Elegant Barbers is a barbershop based in NYC, offering various hair services such as haircuts and beard trims for the people of Brooklyn and nearby areas. As a chain of barbershops, we have three locations around New York, including the latest location on 7th Avenue in Brooklyn. Schedule an appointment today and experience a more elegant cut!