Dealing With Razor Burn? 7 Things You Can Do to Alleviate It

No matter how many precautions you take when shaving, sometimes razor burn and irritation are inevitable in areas with sensitive skin. Most people who have shaved have experienced some degree of skin irritation at some point in their life. Whether from shaving too quickly, not applying cream, or using a dull blade, razor burn is extremely common and can be painful. 

Luckily, if you are suffering from mild razor burn, there are some home remedies to alleviate some of the pain. If you’re hoping to learn how to treat razor burn on pubic area, legs, underarms, or any other place you shave, you’ve come to the right place. While the appearance and symptoms of razor burn or ingrown hairs won’t disappear entirely, there are many measures you can take to reduce and prevent future irritation. 

Continue reading to discover seven effective ways to alleviate razor burn.

1. Cool Compress

While a warm washcloth can help prevent razor burn before you shave, a cool compress will reduce itching and swelling if it does occur. Dampen a clean washcloth with cool water and press gently on the area that hurts. While it may not reduce the razor burn’s appearance, it will instantly soothe your skin. You can continue to wet and apply the washcloth as needed. 

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a soothing treatment that has many benefits and helps relieve the skin of burns and scrapes. While you may have used it before to reduce sunburns, it’s also an excellent remedy for irritation caused by shaving! You can take aloe vera directly from the plant or find a packaged gel in the general pharmacy. Simply apply the aloe vera to the area for a cooling sensation that will reduce inflammation and help heal the painful area. 

3. Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone cream is an over-the-counter treatment that reduces redness and swelling. Gently apply a bit of the cream to your skin to effectively lessen the appearance and pain of the burn. However, be cautious not to overuse hydrocortisone cream since it can thin your skin and make it more prone to future razor burn. 

4. Oatmeal Bath

While oatmeal may be better known as a breakfast food, it’s also full of antioxidants that can work wonders for your skin. Adding a bit of oatmeal to your bath, or using a product that contains oatmeal, can reduce inflammation and pain! An oatmeal bath is a great way to treat razor burn on larger areas like your legs or more intimate zones like your pubic area. 

5. Witch Hazel Extract

Witch hazel is a plant that people have used for a long time to relieve skin inflammation. While it’s less common than other remedies, it’s found in the drugstore as a liquid or in cream and can quickly reduce some of the effects of razor burn. Soak a clean washcloth in a mixture of witch hazel extract and water and apply it gently to the irritated area. You should feel less itchy right away!

6. Natural Oils

Natural oils are great for moisturizing your skin. Use olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil on any areas with razor burn to hydrate the irritated skin and relieve burning and itching. Not only is it an easy method to reduce some of the pain, but you likely already have a bottle of natural oil lying around the house!

7. Go to the Doctor

If you continue to suffer from razor burn and your symptoms don’t improve, you may want to consider going to the doctor. They can give you expert advice and prescribe an antibiotic for worsening conditions. If you have any doubts, it’s always best to seek a medical professional to get expert advice.

Time to Say Goodbye to Razor Burn!

With more knowledge about how to relieve razor burn, you should now be able to alleviate some of the pain, redness, and swelling! To avoid razor burn in the future, take your time when shaving, apply a cream, and use small strokes as you remove the hair. If you find that you get razor burn nearly every time you shave, you might also want to consider a different hair removal method like laser or waxing. Pain is never fun, so do everything you can to avoid it and keep your body looking and feeling its best!