6 Tips To Preventing Razor Burn

Shaving can help you feel good about yourself and your body as well as help clear dead skin cells and give skin a smoother feel. Razor burn will quickly clear all those benefits away, leaving feeling you uncomfortable, itchy and insecure. Here are six ways to prevent unsightly razor burn and help your skin feel healthy and smooth.

1. Use The Correct Tools

One major key to preventing razor burn is the tools you are using to do the job. You should use a high-quality razor with sharp blades to get a close and even shave. If your skin is sensitive, be sure to select a razor that is made to soothe the skin as you go. Many will include a lotion strip that can help keep your skin soft while you shave. Changing the blades often will also help keep your razor in tip-top condition. In addition, you'll want to be sure to use some soothing shaving cream to keep the blade gliding smoothly against your skin.

2. Shave At The Right Time

Shaving in the shower, or immediately after is ideal because your skin and hair are softened from the water and heat. This will help the blade to glide against your skin and prevent it from pulling on or damaging the skin. You want your blade to be able to cut the hair cleanly and evenly. If you have particularly sensitive skin, you can also apply some oil or cream to your skin after your shower to make hair even softer and provide a much smoother surface for your razor to glide on.

3. Use The Right Technique

Start by applying a thick, even layer of cream to the area you wish to shave. If you are shaving a large area, you may want to apply the cream to smaller areas at a time. To get the closest possible shave with less irritation, be sure to shave in the opposite direction of hair growth. This allows the razor to cut hair right at skin level for a smooth shave. Take your time and go slowly, applying light pressure to make sure the blade makes good contact. Continue to rinse your razor thoroughly as you go to keep hairs and shaving cream from clogging up the blades. Be very careful as you shave around any sensitive areas or those with lots of curves. You should also avoid shaving over the same area of skin more than once as this can lead to irritation.

4. Keep Your Tools Clean

Caring for your razor properly will help keep it sharp and ready for every shave. After each use, you should thoroughly rinse it under warm water to remove any debris or soap residue. If any blockages won't rinse away, soak the blades in some hot water for a few minutes and then rinse again. Be sure to replace your blades often as they will begin to dull after a few uses.

5. Do Some After Care

Once you have finished shaving, you will want to take time to care for and rehydrate your skin. Saturate your skin with a high moisture lotion and allow it to soak in before applying any other products. You may also consider an after-balm that is made specifically for applying after a shave. Be sure to avoid products with alcohol that will act to dry out your skin instead of hydrating.

6. Wear Loose Clothing Afterwards

After your shaving process is complete, it is important to ensure that your skin has some time to breathe and recover. Wear loose clothing that doesn't rub against your skin, especially in sensitive areas like your bikini line. You should also avoid scratchy materials such as lace near the freshly shaved skin.

No matter what area you are shaving, you want it to be a pampering experience, not an uncomfortable one. Taking the time to do it properly will help keep razor burn from ruining your smooth shave.