Razor rash occurs when the skin becomes irritated by shaving. Medline Plus also notes that a rash after shaving may be caused by folliculitis, or an infected hair follicle. You can prevent razor rash by applying a protective barrier of shaving gel before shaving and using a single blade razor to go over each area only once. If you get razor rash despite these precautions, it is possible to treat the razor rash.
Step 1
Soak in a bathtub of cool water or apply wet cool compresses to the area to reduce the inflammation.
Step 2
Keep the area cool. Heat can make a razor rash itch and may irritate the rash. Wear loose clothing and stay cool.
Step 3
Rinse sweat off the razor rash. Sweat contains salt, which may irritate the razor rash and slow healing.
Step 4
Rub aloe vera to soothe the skin, states the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Do this after shaving and twice per day thereafter.
Step 5
Apply one percent hydrocortisone cream to the razor rash to control itching if necessary. Follow the directions on the packaging, as the directions may vary slightly from one manufacturer to another. Limit the use of this product to two to three days maximum.
Step 6
Avoid shaving again until after the razor rash has completely healed. Shaving over the bumps can worsen the razor rash. You should also avoid chemical hair removal, waxing, sugaring and tweezing while the bumps heal. If you must trim the hair while the rash is present, use scissors or barber clippers.
Tips and Warnings
- Check the razor rash for pimple-like blemishes. If you see any of these, you most likely have an ingrown hair. Apply warm compresses to the area three times per day to aid drainage and speed healing of the ingrown hair.
- Contact a doctor if the rash doesn't abate with these treatments as the rash may be a sign of a more serious condition.
Things You'll Need
- Cool compress
- Aloe vera
- Hydrocortisone
- Scissors
- Barber clippers
Member Comments