How to Treat Itchy Legs After Shaving

How to Treat Itchy Legs After Shaving
Photo Credit womans razor image by Willee Cole from Fotolia.com

Smooth, sexy legs are a summertime essential and nice to have year-round, but everyday shaving sometimes comes with unwanted bumps and itching. That post-itch shave is the result of ingrown hairs, sharp-pointed hairs that dig back into the skin instead of growing out, creating uncomfortable bumps that leave unattractive red spots on your legs. If you get itchy legs after shaving, a few simple post-shaving treatments can soothe the problem.

Step 1

Combine 1 tsp. baby oil and 2 drops rubbing alcohol by squirting them onto your hands and rubbing your palms together.

Step 2

Rub the baby oil mixture over your legs so that your legs are covered in a light layer of the mixture. Let it dry.

Step 3

Dab a little petrolatum-based lip balm onto any cuts you might have made shaving to help them heal faster.

Step 4

Use an exfoliating scrub on your legs in the shower or tub to keep ingrown hairs from working back into your skin.

Step 5

Use a moisturizing lotion at bedtime to keep your legs hydrated and reduce nighttime itching.

Tips and Warnings

  • Prevent itchy legs by soaking your legs for at least 10 minutes before shaving and always lathering up with a shaving cream or gel when you shave. Use a multi-blade razor for the smoothest shave, but if you have spots that are especially prone to razor bumps, switch to a single-blade razor, which can reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. Shaving in the direction your hair grows instead of in the opposite direction can also minimize the risk of ingrown hairs. If you don't want to make your own baby oil solution, you can purchase a commercially available antiseptic toner, such as Tend Skin, at drugstores or beauty supply stores.

Things You'll Need

  • 1 tsp. baby oil
  • 2 drops rubbing alcohol
  • Petrolatum-based lip balm
  • Exfoliating scrub
  • Moisturizing lotion

References

Article reviewed by Elizabeth Ahders Last updated on: Aug 24, 2010

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