Do you desire smooth and flawless skin but end up dealing with the issue of razor burn every now and then? This issue can turn your dream of having smooth skin into an itchy, burning nightmare. Through this blog, we will explore the commonly faced issue of razor burns and discuss the causes behind them as well as understand the best remedies.
Razor Burn Causes
Razor burn is an unpleasant skin irritation caused by the complex interplay of razor blades, hair, and skin during shaving. When the razor comes in contact with the skin, it causes tiny fractures in the epiderm, triggering a razor burn. Some of the common causes of razor burns are:
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Dry Shaving
A major reason behind razor burn is dry shaving (shaving skin with lubrication like water, soap, or shaving gel). Lack of proper lubrication can cause greater friction between the razor and skin, thus making irritation more likely. Redness and discomfort are also common results.
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Shaving Quickly
Another common cause of razor burn is shaving too quickly. Given the speed at which the razor glides over your skin, you may not get a smooth shave and friction could damage surface cells. Slowly and carefully applying the razor to your skin is a great way to prevent getting razor burns.
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Using Old Razor Blades
Unsharp razor blades are another source of the problem. When the metal blade becomes dull, it does not cleanly cut through the hair but tends to pull at it, causing extra strain and irritation upon the epidermis.
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Shaving Against the Direction of Hair Growth
Many people have experienced burns caused by shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth. This technique damages the hair follicle by causing it to grow at an angle and tearing the skin beneath. Following the direction of hair growth when shaving can reduce the chances of irritation.
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Sensitive Skin
People with sensitive skin are especially susceptible to razor burn. The noxiousness of harsh chemicals or the fragrances used in shaving cream, gel, and after-shave may lead to inflammation and pain. Choosing products specially formulated for sensitive or hypoallergenic skin can lessen this problem.
Razor Bumps Treatment
Razor bumps make the experience of shaving quite unpleasant. Luckily, many treatments and preventive methods exist to deal with razor bumps.
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Stop Shaving Temporarily
If razor bumps have become a chronic problem, avoiding shaving for some time will let the old ones fade away. If the condition persists, consulting a dermatologist will be the best action.
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Salicylic Acid Solutions
Cleansers, toners, lotions, and salicylic acid peels can unclog pores and slough away dead skin cells. Salicylic acid also treats inflammation caused by razor bumps.
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Glycolic Acid Solutions
Glycolic acid, like salicylic acid, peels off old skin cells and reduces hair curvature for faster shedding. It controls razor bumps and keeps the skin smoother.
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Warm Washcloth Application
Apply a warm, damp washcloth to soften the skin and pull out ingrown hair. This can be combined with light rubbing or steaming in a hot shower to get even better results.
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Medical Treatment Options
In extreme cases, you should consider using an Over-the-Counter steroid cream. If OTC methods don’t produce the desired results, prescription medications (such as tretinoin or Retin-A) may be prescribed.
Conclusion
If you take the necessary measures and use the correct techniques when shaving, razor burn should no longer be a painful commonality. Now that you are aware of the causes of razor burn and have learned appropriate shaving techniques, your skin will experience comfort each time.
