Appearances are important. From the clothes that we wear to our attitudes, how we present ourselves leaves an impression. Whether we like it or not, these impressions do have an effect.
One thing we constantly need to cater to is the shaving of hair across our bodies.
However, the simple process of gliding the razor over the skin can cause problems. One of these problems is razor burns.
Join us as we discuss what this type of wound is and how to prevent it for your future shaving sessions.
What Are Razor Burns?
Definition
Razor burn – also commonly referred to as folliculitis – is a condition that results after shaving when the hair follicle is irritated. The razor removes not only the hair but also a layer of skin cells. This can result in redness, burning, and even itching.
In more severe cases, these types of burns can lead to razor bumps. These are small pimple-like bumps that can be very uncomfortable.
Why Are They Dangerous?
These burns might seem like minor issues, but they can actually cause some serious problems. For one thing, this burn makes the skin more susceptible to infection.
This is because when the skin is damaged, it’s harder for it to fight off bacteria and other foreign invaders.
These burns can also lead to bumps. As we mentioned, razor bumps are small pimples that can form after shaving.
They’re caused by the hair follicle becoming irritated and inflamed. In severe cases, razor bumps can become infected. This can cause even more pain and swelling.
Finally, close shaving can lead to the damaging of hair follicles. This may also bring about severe acne which is another problem in and of itself.
Causes and Risk Factors
There are a few different factors that can contribute to burns from razors.
For one thing, if you shave too often, you’re more likely to experience these burns. This is because shaving removes a layer of skin cells, which can lead to irritation.
Another factor that can contribute is using a dull razor. A dull razor can tug at the hair follicles, which can also lead to irritation and inflammation.
Using a razor that’s not meant for your skin type can also cause these burns. For example, if you have sensitive skin, using a razor with blade guards is important.
Otherwise, the razor might remove too much skin, leading to folliculitis.
How Long Do They Last?
These burns usually go away within a few hours or days. However, in some cases, they can last for weeks.
If you have a case of folliculitis that doesn’t seem to be healing, it’s important to see a doctor. This is especially true if you develop razor bumps or an infection.
Tips to Prevent Razor Burns
Now that we’ve discussed what this specific burn is and how it can be dangerous, let’s talk about how to prevent them.
There are a few different things you can do to lower your risk of folliculitis.
Don’t Rush
One of the most important things you can do to prevent this is to take your time while shaving.
If you rush through the process, you’re more likely to make mistakes. These mistakes can lead to burns, as well as unsightly and painful wounds.
So, instead of rushing, take your time and be careful while shaving.
Shave After a Shower
Another good way to prevent these burns is to shave after taking a shower. This is because the steam from the shower will help to soften the hair follicles.
As a result, they’ll be easier to shave.Â
Take the Time to Prepare
Before you start shaving, it’s important to take the time to prepare your skin.
This means cleansing the area with mild soap and warm water. This will help to remove any dirt, oil, or debris that could clog the razor.
You should also exfoliate the skin before shaving. This will help to remove any dead skin cells that could clog the razor and cause these types of burns.
Invest in a Good Razor
If you want to avoid having a bad case of folliculitis, it’s important to invest in a good razor. A good razor will be sharp and won’t tug at the hair follicles.
It’s also important to make sure you’re using the razor properly. Be sure to follow the instructions that come with the razor.
If you’re not sure how to use it, ask a professional.
Don’t Overshave an Area
When you’re shaving, be careful not to over-shave an area. This means that you shouldn’t shave the same spot more than once or twice.
Shaving too much can also lead to burns from your razor. So, be sure to only shave each spot once or twice before moving on.
Use a Cream or Foam
One other tip for preventing these burns is by using shaving cream, foam, or gel. These products work wonders and can stop any burns from happening.
When these creams and foams are applied to the part to be shaved, they ensure that the razor floats easily on the skin. It decreases any risk of follicles being caught and damaged, or skin being nicked.
Do Not Go Against the Grain
Finally, when you’re shaving, be sure to not go against the grain. This means that you should shave in the direction where hair is growing. While the common saying is to go against it, this could often lead to damaged follicles and burns with your razor. In addition, it is always a good tip to shave as light as possible.
Treating A Razor Burn
If you do happen to get these burns, there are a few things you can do to treat it
Cold Compress
First, apply a cold compress to the area. This will help to reduce the swelling and pain
Creams and Other Ingredients
You can also try using a topical cream or ointment. These can help to soothe the skin and speed up the healing process. Aloe vera also helps the skin, the same way it helps with sunburns.
Apart from that, there are many types of ingredients that can help in treating these types of burns. They include vitamin E, jojoba seed oil, and Shea Butter.
Other ingredients that serve to repair skin after burn include caffeine, green and white tea, allantoin in moisturisers, and comfrey.
These ingredients will help fortify the outer layer of the skin. It helps in both treating and preventing these burns from happening in the future.
If you have a severe burn, it’s important to see a doctor. They can prescribe stronger medications to help treat this wound and condition.
One Shave Closer
Razor burns can be a painful and annoying problem. Apart from the pain that it causes, it can also introduce infections and acne to a person’s skin. Preventing these burns is important for these exact reasons.
By following the tips above, you can lower your risk of developing these burns. If you do get a razor burn, be sure to treat it right away.
With the right practices, you’ll be one shave closer to presenting a good impression.
If an infection does set in or the wound from a razor is quite bad, it is best to know the right first aid practices to help out in these situations.
Learn more about it through CPR First Aid’s Liverpool course.
