Razor burn is one of the concerns in men. It refers to the irritation of the skin after shaving of an area. Usually associated with men who frequently shave their faces, it can also be present in women who shave their armpits and legs. The following are the causes, signs and symptoms, and home remedies for razor burn.
Causes
A razon burn has various causes. According to Everyday Health, this can be due to using an old or dull razor, not wetting the area to be shaved, and shaving in the opposite direction that the hair grows. Other causes of razor burn, as per Health Line, include shaving without a lubricant like soap, water, or shaving cream; using a razor that is clogged with hair, soap, or shaving cream; shaving one area multiple times; shaving too fast; and using shaving products that irritate the skin.
Signs and Symptoms
Razor burns present several symptoms. According to Health Line, these include tenderness, burning, or hot sensation in the area; itchiness; and small red bumps. As per the publication, the person may experience the symptoms in various areas like the face, underarms, bikini area, and the legs. It is added that the condition is temporary and will go away with time. And as per Everyday Health, about half of all people report that they have sensitive skin, which makes them more inclined t have razor burns.
Home Remedies
While razon burns disappear by themselves, remedies can also be applied at home to facilitate faster healing and recovery.
Cold and Heat Therapy
Two remedies for razor burns include cold and heat application. According to Top 10 Home Remedies, cold compress helps relieve the burning sensation due to the condition, in addition to soothing the area and reduce inflammation, itching, redness, and bump formation. As per the publication, the person just has to wrap a few ice cubes in a thin towel and place the towel on the affected area for a few minutes. As an option, the person may also soak a cloth in cold water and place it on the affected area for few minutes. For hot application, as per Get Bevel, the person may make a hot compress by soaking cotton wool in hot water and pressing it mildly against the skin. According to the publication, this allows the pores to open, freeing the trapped air.
Apple Cider Vinegar
One accessible remedy for razor burns is apple cider vinegar. According to Top 10 Home Remedies, the vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties that control both inflammation and itching, in addition to its acidity that prevents infection. As per the publication, the person dabs a cotton ball in the vinegar and applies it on the affected area. Next, it is allowed to air dry and it washed off with water. It is done twice or thrice a day until the burning sensation resolves.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is another remedy for razor burns. As per Get Bevel, it also helps soothe irritated skin, in addition to keeping the skin moisturized. According to the publication, the person just gets the tip of the leaf and squeezes the gel directly onto the skin to prevent getting razor burns. The publication also suggests buying Aloe Vera gel; however, brands that contain artificial colors and fragrances are not advisable for use.
Razor burn refers to the irritation of the skin following shaving the area, which can be infected if a wound develops. Thus, it is best to resolve it as soon as possible and consider seeking medical consult for proper assessment, planning, intervention, health education, and evaluation.
Source: shawacademy.com
