Shaving is a quick and affordable way of removing unwanted hair. Unfortunately, shaving has one major drawback, which is a razor burn. Razor burn is a skin irritation to a section of the skin that has been recently shaved. As the name suggests, it causes a burning sensation and can appear as a red rash and sometimes swollen and itchy too.
It is particularly common for men who shave frequently but it also affects women who shave their legs and armpits. The main reasons why you get a razor burn include using hard soaps while shaving, dry shaving, unconditioned or sensitive skin, and using dull blades. Because razor burns can cause discomforts, let us look at a few tips of getting rid of razor burns.
Cold compress
Cold compress is an easy task that involves wrapping ice cubes in a thin towel and applying on affected areas for a few minutes. In case you do not have ice cubes you can use a face towel dipped in cold water. Repeat this for a couple of times per day. A cold compress is one of the easiest and most effective way of getting rid of the burning sensation and reducing the redness and inflammation. It also helps to prevent the formation of razor bumps.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. This property reduces inflammation and the itching sensation caused by razor burns. All you need to do is dip a cotton ball in the apple cider vinegar and rub it on affected area. Allow it to dry and then wash with water. Repeat the process around three times until the sensation stops. Another advantage of apple cider vinegar is that it prevents infection because of the acetic acid present.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera works in two ways. First, its cooling nature gives instant relief from the burning sensation and inflammation. Secondly, it moisturizes the skin. All you have to do is extract Aloe Vera gel from the leaf of the Aloe Vera plant. Rub it on the affected area, allow it to dry on its own, and then rinse it off with cold water. Repeat this for two to three days.
Aspirin
The anti-inflammatory properties of aspirin help to get rid of a razor burn. What you need to do is pound two aspirins and put the powder in a teaspoon of warm water. Allow it to cool as it turns to a paste, rub the paste on affected areas and leave it for around ten minutes then wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeat twice a day for best results. However, this treatment is not recommended for people with sensitive skin.
Black Tea
Black tea bags can also be used to get rid of razor burns. All you need to do is moisten the tea bag with warm water. Soak a black tea bag in lukewarm water and apply it on the affected area for two to three minutes. Rinse your face afterwards. The tannic acid in tea reduces skin inflammation and soothes the burning sensation due to razor burn.
For best results, use either treatment for two to three days. Remember to replace your razor or shaving gels if the razor or dry shaving is the reason of your razor burns.
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