A shaving rash also known as razor burn is a less severe state triggered by shaving or other hair removal techniques, Shaving rash is generally common and problematic in men who shave often, it is characterized by mild to moderate redness and irritation . They look like small bumps or big pimples clustered over shave area and look pretty ugly, they tend to develop after shaving.
what does shaving rash look like
It generally has a red appearance with bumps and spots.
What causes shaving rash
The medical term for razor bumps or shaving rash is pseudofolliculitis barbae( PFB) “After a hair has been shaved, it begins to grow back. Curly hair tends to curl into the skin instead of straight out the follicle, leading to an inflammation reaction. PFB can make the skin look itchy and red, and in some cases, it can even look like pimples. These inflamed papules or pustules can form especially if the area becomes infected” Wikipedia.
Shaving rash is common on the face and neck, but it can also pop up on other parts of the body if shaved or hair has been plucked, particularly in areas where the hair is curly or skin is sensitive. What happens at times following a shave is the curly hair has the ability to curl back into the skin instead of growing straight out the follicle. This leads to inflammation which can make the skin look itchy and red, if not tackled on time this area can become infected and becomes an itchy bump of shaving rash.
When you do have or develop a shaving rash, shaving on it may not be a good idea as your skin is not only prone to infection but you can damage your skin further. But of case most people ignore this and simple shave over it . Bad Idea! So
What stops shaving rash
Here are some simple tips to minimize shaving rash from occurring .
- Prep your Skin before a shave : This is a simple step which is done by placing a warm damp cloth on the area for up to 3 minutes to hydrate your skin this soften the hair,open the pores and make it easier to remove hair.
- Oils : You can also Prep skin by applying a pre shave oil to soften the skin & hair.
- Exfoliate : Exfoliate before your shave not after. Exfoliating is to help remove any dead skincells and promotes closer shave.
- Tools : Select your best finest razor blades and make sure your shaving kit tools are clean..
- Direction of shave : When shaving facial hair shave in the shave direction as your hair grows with the grain this may help reduce might irritation and shaving rashes from popping up.
- Post Shave : Rinse with cold water and hydrate your skin with your favorite aftershave balm .
What soothes shaving rash
Here a list of home remedy that can help reduce shaving rash
- Aloe vera
- Tea tree
- Lemon Juice
- Coconut Oil
- Advocado Oil
- Cold compress
- Witch Hazel
- Oat meal
- Baking Soda
- Olive Oil
- Apple cider vinegar
What can help shaving rash
Following the tip above, create a shaving kits which will include not just your shaving brush, razors but also ensure you have some of the home remedies at hand. Select an aftershave to for soothing moisturizing to gently soothes the skin and helping reduce redness. We now have a great selection of aftershave from those that which are fragrance free to those with selected essential oils specially designed to hydrate your skin and may help reduce irritation. Finally, avoid touching your face or shaved area to reduce infection
Ref/Resources
Disclaimer : This resource for educational purpose & not for prescription, your face is the first thing people see be sure to be mindful of what you put on it .