Itchy skin after shaving? Calm the itch with these 5 tips

How to prevent skin irritation after shaving? Abide by these 5 tips. They will help prevent rashes, burns, and itchy skin after shaving.
how to prevent skin irritation after shaving
Never make any mistake while shaving for smooth and supple skin. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock
Aayushi Gupta Published: 25 Dec 2022, 11:30 am IST
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Shaving is one of the most commonly used ways for body hair removal. While shaving is unquestionably the most convenient, easy and affordable way to remove hair from your body, it also comes at a cost. It can cause skin irritation and rashes, especially if it’s not done properly. So, are you wondering how to prevent skin irritation after shaving?

Health Shots spoke to Dr Monica Chahar, Dermatologist at Skin Decor, Delhi, who shared some of the best tips to deal with itchy and irritated skin after shaving.

Dr Chahar says, “While shaving is the easiest and undoubtedly the quickest way to get rid of unwanted hair, at times it can also be painful and uncomfortable. Skin irritation or shaving rash is a common skin condition that can develop after you shave. It is caused by your razor, causing skin damage and showing up as red, itchy skin irritation.”

How to stop skin rashes after shaving?

Let’s start by figuring out what may cause the rashes in the first place. Your razor, the way you shave, and your skin type, all can be responsible for your itchy skin. For instance, shaving with a dull razor blade increases the risk of getting razor rashes, and if you have sensitive skin naturally, shaving might irritate it more easily. So, let us get to know some simple and effective ways to calm skin irritation after shaving.

how to prevent skin irritation after shaving
Manage the way you shave to prevent skin issues. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Here are 5 ways to calm skin irritation after shaving:

1. Removing dead skin before you shave

Exfoliation is an important step that many tend to neglect or rather find unimportant. But mind you, this simple step before you begin to shave plays a big role in saving your skin from the aftereffects of shaving. Exfoliation removes dead skin from the surface making your skin soft enough for the razor to glide smoothly over your skin. Scrub your skin gently using a loofah or a gentle scrub before you shave for soft skin afterward.

Also read: Shaving can make your skin darker and hair grow faster — a myth or fact?

2. Stay away from shaving dry skin

Shaving dry skin is like inviting skin problems. Always make sure to hydrate your skin sufficiently by soaking the area you plan to shave for a couple of minutes in warm water or best take a shower. Once the shaving area is adequately moist, apply a shaving gel to retain moisture while you shave. This small step ensures your skin does not dry out while shaving and saves it from the itchy after-effects.

3. Select a proper razor

Using a proper razor is by far the most important part if you want to get rid of skin irritation after shaving. Firstly, make sure to use a sharp razor blade to protect your skin from scratches and itchiness. If the razor blade feels rough on your skin or pulls at your body hair, you must know that it’s time to replace your blade. Next, use a razor with three or more blades spaced tightly together as it will glide easier across your skin and prevent razor burn.

how to prevent skin irritation after shaving
Choose the right razor to shave! Image courtesy: Shutterstock

4. Shave in the direction of hair growth

Always remember to shave in the direction of hair growth and if you have sensitive skin, then it becomes all the more important if you want to avoid skin irritation post-hair removal. And do not forget to take your own time and shave in light, steady strokes. If required, get more information about how to shave individual areas of your body to further reduce the chances of skin irritation after you shave.

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Also read: Do you get razor bumps after shaving pubic hair? Read this NOW!

5. Use a moisturizer after shaving

Once you are done shaving, do not forget to apply a generous amount of moisturizing lotion or oil preferably alcohol-free to retain the moisture and add an extra layer of protection from razor rashes and skin irritation.

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About the Author

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More

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