How To Stop Itching After Shaving – Remedies
Shaving is an essential task for many men. This is especially true if you work in a company or industry that requires a clean-cut look.
It is true that there are a number of great shaving products on the market and the whole industry has really come a long way.
Shaving can give you that temporary smooth look and feel that you desire, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t potentially come along with some unwanted side effects.
And, one of these most common unwanted side effects is itching. And, this is not to even mention the red bumps and inflammation that pops up near the pores.
So, why do these conditions occur, and is there any way to prevent them? That is exactly what you are going to learn below.
Why Does The Skin Itch After Shaving?
What most people don’t realize is that when you shave, you are not really removing the whole hair follicle.
Instead, you are just cutting it off at its growing point. Of course, as the natural hair growth dictates, your follicles will continue to grow.
When this takes place it takes place with the follicle located under the skin. Unfortunately, shaving can sometimes irritate these follicles and this irritation is what produces that itching sensation.
If you are using a dull razor or shaver it can actually twist or redirect the follicle during the shaving process.
This causes the hair to become curled and sharp, which makes it easier to puncture back into the skin when it grows.
It is this specific scenario that causes those painful and unsightly razor bumps. Once you develop a case of razor dumps it is best to stop shaving completely, because it can let to permanent scarring.
People with sensitive skin issues are even more prone to these types of conditions. Not to fear, because there are a variety of techniques and tactics that you can employ to reduce your risk of suffering from these conditions.
Take Advantage Of Hydrocortisone Cream
Hydrocortisone cream is a specific type of cream that contains steroids. The steroids in these creams have been scientifically proven to reduce irritation, itching, and inflammation.
There are over the counter version available, but depending on your characteristics and skin type, you might need to visit a doctor and get a stronger version.
Stronger versions contain higher amounts of steroids, so they will require a doctor’s written prescription.
The over the counter version will also contain steroids, but it will be just in small amounts. Just be extremely careful when topically applying this product. You do not want to get any in your eyes or sensitive areas.
Make A Warm Compress
Warm water combined with a washcloth can have a lot of healing properties. It can even reduce the itching and enhance the healing process of ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
All you have to do is get a washcloth, wet it with warm water, and apply it to the itchy area after shaving.
Some experts in the field might even suggest adding a little sea salt to the washcloth.
Moisturizers With All-Natural Ingredients
You have probably already been using moisturizers for a number of years now due to their powerful properties. However, you might have been using them after shaving.
Utilizing them after shaving can protect the skin against bacteria, prevent skin infections, and soothe the irritation.
When choosing a moisturizing product, you want to look for one that is hypoallergenic and contains all-natural ingredients.
One that contains Aloe Vera will be extremely handy because of all the healing properties that it possesses.
Witch hazel is another important ingredient to consider, as it possesses astringent and antibacterial properties.
The Power Of Tea
Are you a tea drinker? If so, you probably already know about all the benefits that you can get from just drinking a cup of tea a day.
That being said, tea bags that contain tannic acid can go along to keeping your shaving woes at bay. Tannic acid is a type of agent that has anti-inflammatory properties.
Simply just boil the tea, let the bag cool down, and apply them to the skin until you stop itching and notice that the redness has gone down.
You will probably want to boil the bags ahead of time and stick them in the refrigerator so that they will be ready for immediate use.
Stock The Problem Before It Starts
If you really want to stop itching after shaving the key will be prevention. Even with sensitive skin, there are some things that you can do to prevent itching and other irritations.
Trim
If you don’t shave on a regular basis your hair will be longer when you shave. Unfortunately, shaving longer hairs with certain razors or shavers and cause itching and unwanted side effects.
This is why it is important to trim the hairs with a set of safety scissors before shaving. Any hair that is over half an inch should be snipped as close to the skin as possible.
Don’t Dry Shave
Never shave your skin when it is dry. You can wash your face with a warm washcloth or soak your face in a bowl of warm water.
The warm water will not only provide your skin with some extra moisture, but it will open your pores, making the hair much easier to shave.
Sharp Razor Or Blades
Whether you are using a disposable razor, beard trimmer, or an electric shaver you need to make sure that the blades are always up to par.
If they have dull blades, it will just tug and pull at the hair rather than lifting and cutting it.
This will not only be painful, but it will twist and curl the hair, making it more likely to grow back into the skin.
Look at the manufacturer’s booklet or on the back of the packet to see when the manufacturer recommends changing the blades or replacing the razor.
Shaving Creams
Shaving cream can also provide the skin with moisture and prevent unwanted side effects.
Just make use that you are using one with alcohol and one that was designed specifically for sensitive skin. There are even all-natural shaving creams available to you.