How To Relieve Razor Burn, Plus Tips for Preventing It

Razor burn, as you’re probably aware, isn’t pleasant. The redness, burning sensations, and micro-cuts all can make maintaining your facial hair feel like a real pain. If you’re dealing with razor burn right now — or just looking for ways to prevent it from happening again — read on. In this article, we’ll teach you how to relieve razor burn, plus some strategies to prevent it for good.

What’s Razor Burn?

Razor burn is a type of surface-level skin discomfort characterized by red, blotchy patches. It typically shows up after shaving and can last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days. Unsurprisingly, razor burn commonly appears in places you shave, like your face, neck, and groin.

Razor Burn vs. Razor Bumps

While the terms are often used interchangeably, razor burn and razor bumps are different. Friction causes razor burn, whereas hairs curling back into the skin after being cut cause razor bumps. Fortunately, many of the same techniques that help you avoid razor burn can also help you prevent or get rid of razor bumps.

Common Signs of Razor Burn

If your skin’s feeling raw after shaving, you might have a case of razor burn. Look out for these common warning signs:

• Burning, stinging, or itching: Shaving removes a portion of the top layer of skin cells (stratum corneum), which can temporarily increase sensitivity and sensations of burning, stinging, or itching.

• Micro-cuts and bleeding: A dull razor blade can catch on the surface of your skin, causing both micro-cuts and visible bleeding.

• Redness: Your skin sends blood to the surface to try to heal the damage, which appears as a reddish blotch (erythema) just beneath the skin.

• Localized warmth: Increased blood flow to the area can also elevate skin temperature.

Pus-filled bumps, itchy blisters, or scaly patches appearing in your shave zones may indicate a more serious condition. If you notice any of those signs, talk to a dermatologist.

What Causes Razor Burn?

Friction from the blade dragging across your skin is the primary cause of razor burn. Without the combination of lubrication, a sharp razor, and proper shaving technique, you’re more susceptible to this uncomfortable skin condition. Dry shaving without shaving butter or a shaving cream alternative leaves your skin vulnerable to the blade. 

And speaking of razor blades, a dull one drags and tugs on hairs rather than slicing through them cleanly. Plus, moving too quickly or aggressively without gently pulling your skin taut can lead to mico-cuts.

How Long Does Razor Burn Last?

The initial stinging sensation of razor burn typically lasts only a few minutes. But the visible redness and warmth can last anywhere from a few hours to two or three days. Severe cases involving cuts or scratches can last for a week to 10 days.

How To Treat Razor Burn

Here’s what to do if you’re already experiencing razor burn:

• Apply a cool compress: Grab a soft towel or washcloth, and thoroughly wet it with cold water. Hold it firmly in place on the skin for 10–15 minutes. This can help soothe the initial stinging or itchiness. 

• Keep the area clean: Use a gentle, zero-grit product like our Refreshing Face Wash to keep the area free of dirt and grime.

• Use gentle moisturizers: Soothe your skin with pure aloe vera or a gentle moisturizing lotion like our Post-Shave Balm.

• Let your skin recover: Don’t shave again for at least the rest of the day. If you’re able to skip shaving for a few days, it’ll give you more time to recover without bothering the skin. Focus on your skincare routine and beard care in the meantime.

Top Shaving Tips

Cleaning up your face is all about preparation, proper maintenance, and good technique. Here’s how to shave the right way.

Prep Your Skin Before Shaving

Your skin has no idea you’re about to come at it with a knife; don’t traumatize it. Prepare with a warm water rinse or shower, a gentle face wash, and a generous layer of shave butter or cream. This helps soften the hairs so they’re easier to cut.

Use a Sharp, Clean Razor

The sharper your razor is, the cleaner every cut will be. A precision-engineered safety razor with frequent blade changes (every five to 10 shaves) can give you a smoother finish.

Shave With Proper Lubrication

A natural shave butter, cream, or gel can cushion your skin from the blade, reducing your risk of nicks.

Shave Gently and Avoid Excess Pressure

Even with coarse facial hair, you should be able to shave with just a bit of gentle pressure. If your blade isn’t gliding easily through every pass, consider switching to an electric trimmer or scissors to take down the length first. Then, change your razor blade to ensure it’s sharp and ready to go.

Shave in the Direction of Hair Growth

When you use a razor, shave with the grain at an angle between 30–45 degrees. Shaving against the grain means the blade physically lifts and pulls the hair follicle before slicing it, leading to friction. Going with the grain is the gentler approach.

Rinse and Care for Skin After Shaving

Give your skin some TLC after shaving to help it bounce back before it’s time to shave again. A quick rinse and some moisturizing lotion or post shave balm can help soothe the area.

Replace Razor Blades Regularly

Each razor will get you just five to 10 full shaves, depending on how coarse your facial hair is. Use it longer than that, and you’ll increase your risk of nicks. Another reason safety razors rock: A stack of 100 double-edge replacement blades will run you about $10. 

Build a Better Shave Routine With Dr. Squatch

With a bit of prep and the right products, you can prevent razor burn entirely. It’ll take some time and experimentation, but you’ll find a routine that works for you. 

We’re here to help. Dr Squatch’s shaving lineup includes everything you need for a complete shaving routine. Our Shave Butter and Post-Shave Balm are specially formulated to give you a smooth, comfortable shave every time. They’re both easy ways to upgrade your shave with Mother Nature’s finest ingredients.