How to Treat and Prevent Razor Burn

Shaving can feel like a hassle for more reasons that one. The actual act of shaving is not the problem, it’s the itchy, red bumps that often pop up post-shave that cause the most pain, and it can be difficult to treat razor burn after the fact. We often sacrifice our skin’s comfort for smoothness, but what if we told you it doesn’t have to be that way? 

Step 1: Start by Exfoliating

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The most important step to preventing razor burn and achieving a comfortable, clean shave: exfoliate! Exfoliating helps lift the hair off of your skin so your razor catches them all, preventing ingrown hairs. To exfoliate, use a gentle scrub and rinse off with a warm washcloth. We recommend using something hypoallergenic.

Step 2: Soften Hair with Water 

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Running a warm bath or shower will help soften hair and make it more accessible for removal, especially in hard-to-reach areas like the underarms and bikini line. Wait until the end of your shower or bath to shave and you’ll greatly decrease your chances of irritation.

Step 3: Choose the Right Shaving Cream 

 Photo by The Himalayan Times

Do not skip this step! Simply using water or even soap causes the razor to drag on your hair and skin. Shaving cream properly lubricates the skin and blade and softens your hair, creating a smoother surface for your blade to glide over. It protects your skin and leaves it supple and moisturized.

Step 4: Use a Single-Blade Razor 

Photo by Elle

Ditch the multi-blade razor for good! Razors with multiple blades lift the hair with the first and cut with the second, while the rest of the blades rake over our skin and cut the hair below skin level. While this may initially feel like a smooth shave, the end result is razor burn and ingrown hairs. If you prefer to stick with a traditional multi-blade razor, be sure to change the blades often. How often you decide to get a new razor depends on how thick your hair is, but the most important thing is to ensure you never shave with a dull blade. Rinse your razor with hot water before and after each use to avoid razor burn from residue on the blade.

Step 5: Soothe Skin with a Hydrating Oil 

The final and essential step of a successful shaving routine is to follow up with an intensely moisturizing oil or cream. Our personal favorite is Marula Oil due to its luxurious, ultra-hydrating properties. Vegamour’s Marula Oil is clean, cruelty-free and absorbs quickly, making it the perfect follow up after shaving. This clean, luxurious oil is naturally packed with antioxidants and omega fatty acids, which provide the perfect razor burn remedy for sensitive skin. It moisturizes, replenishes and soothes your newly-shaven skin to prevent razor burn and irritation.