5 Ways to Avoid & Treat Razor Burn
Razor burn is a sure way to ruin a good shave. A form of skin irritation, it can appear on any part of the body after shaving. Razor burn causes an aggravated red rash or series of small bumps on the surface of the skin that can be uncomfortable or painful. The type of razor you use and even your technique can all contribute to this abrasive condition. Read on for our expert tips on how to avoid and treat razor burn.
1. PREP THE SKIN
We like to think of shaving as an act of self-care, rather than a chore to be rushed through. Take time to open up your pores before shaving by softening the hair follicles with the steam from your shower or the warm water from your bath. This will make it easier to remove hair and reduce the risk of razor burn. Reach for a well-formulated EXFOLIATOR to resurface the skin prior to shaving. By removing dead skin cells, you create the perfect canvas for your razor to seamlessly glide across. Our BODY POLISH contains a mix of gentle physical and chemical exfoliators to slough away dead skin, along with beautifully nourishing ingredients that hydrate and protect the skin.
2. CREATE A CUSHION
Dry shaving, or shaving with water or a product not specifically designed for shaving (such as soap or shampoo), is a one-way ticket to razor burn. Once you've coaxed open your pores and cleared them out with exfoliator, liberally apply our SHAVE CREAM to all parts of your body that you want to remove hair from. Shave cream creates a physical barrier on your skin, cushioning it from the impact of your razor. Ours is pH-balanced, which is perfect for those sensitive areas, and contains naturally active ingredients that deeply soften and condition the skin. It has a cloud-like texture that delicately lathers while retaining its EMOLLIENT AND OCCLUSIVE properties. Heaven.
3. USE A SHARP, CLEAN RAZOR
A dull or blunt razor requires multiple passes across the same area of skin to remove hair. This creates unnecessary friction, meaning a much greater chance of razor burn appearing. Always use a sharp, clean blade. Our REFILL BLADES feature five diamond-sharp blades, enclosed in a moisturising vitamin E cushion, which make for an exceptionally close shave while rehydrating the skin. Pop one on our signature RAZOR; it's been ergonomically designed to sit comfortably in your hand. The soft-touch grip and perfectly weighted handle provides control and precision. For best results and to prolong the sharpness of your blade, store your razor outside of the shower/bath and allow it to air dry in-between use.
4. PERFECT YOUR TECHNIQUE
Many of us think that shaving against the grain gives a closer shave, but this can cause regrowth to curl back into the follicle and increase the chance of razor burn. Instead, begin by shaving in the direction of hair growth to ‘trim’ the hair down as close as possible to the skin. This also gives the skin ample time to moisten and soften. After you’ve done this, then shave against the grain to finish off. The key here is taking your time. Shave with long and gentle strokes, applying a light amount of pressure.
5. TREAT SKIN POST-SHAVE
Rehydrate the skin after shaving with a moisturiser that has been created to support the skin's natural barrier function. This will minimise the likelihood of razor burn while giving your skin a dewy bounce. Our BODY MOISTURISER infuses the skin with long-lasting hydration and naturally active ingredients. Squalane and niacinamide elevate moisture levels and provide vital nutrients to support THE SKIN'S BARRIER FUNCTION. An antioxidant-rich blend of honeysuckle extract, cloudberry oil, soybean oil and shea butter soothes and softens for a radiant glow especially after shaving. In the case that razor burn has already occurred, apply a cold compress after showering/bathing and also wear loose clothing made from natural fibres.