TL;DR
- Razor burn = redness, a burning feeling or small bumps straight after shaving
- Caused by too much friction, a blunt blade or shaving on dry skin
- Good preparation and the right technique solve most of it
- Single blade = less friction = less chance of razor burn
What is razor burn?
Razor burn is an irritation reaction of the skin after shaving. You can recognise it by redness, a burning or tight feeling, small bumps or itchy skin. It can appear straight after shaving or only a few hours later.
It's not the same as ingrown hairs or strawberry skin, although they can occur together.
Where does razor burn come from?
- Too much friction. If your blade passes over the same spot several times, or if you press too hard, it irritates the outer layer of skin.
- A blunt or dirty blade. A blunt blade pulls at hairs instead of cutting them. That causes more friction and therefore more chance of irritation.
- Shaving on dry skin. Without protection, your blade scrapes directly over the skin. You feel it after just one stroke.
- Shaving too fast. Rushing makes it worse. Short, controlled movements work better than quick sweeps.
- Multi-blade razors. Multiple blades in one stroke = multiple times the friction on the same spot. That adds up.
How do you prevent razor burn?
Prepare your skin
Always shave after a warm shower, or soak your skin in warm water first. Soft, warm skin offers less resistance. Your blade glides more smoothly and your skin reacts less easily.
Always use a shaving bar or shaving soap
Dry shaving is asking for trouble. A shaving bar creates a layer of lather that protects your skin and lets your blade move more smoothly. Jojoba oil and shea butter in the WONDR shaving bars hydrate your skin while you shave.
Less pressure, not more
You don't need to push down on anything. Certainly not with a safety razor. The weight of the blade does the work. The more pressure you apply, the greater the chance of irritation.
Replace your blade more often than you think
A blade you use for too long becomes blunt. A blunt blade pulls. Pulling irritates. Replace it weekly if you shave regularly. With a safety razor, that costs €1.99 per 5 pieces. Good for your legs, good for your wallet.
Consider switching to a single blade
Multi-blade razors sound like an upgrade, but for sensitive skin they rarely are. More blades = more contact = more friction. A safety razor with one sharp blade does the job in one stroke, so less strain on your skin.
And if you get razor burn anyway?
Don't shave over the irritated skin again. That makes it worse. Cool your skin with cold water, pat dry (don't rub) and apply a soothing, low-fat cream or body butter. Give your skin a day's rest before you shave again.
Shaving without the side effects.
→ Fresh Larch Shaving Bar — for all skin types — €11.95
→ Tea Time Shaving Bar — for sensitive skin — €11.95
