The Taming of the Shaving Rash

For many men, razor burn is part and parcel of shaving. Thankfully with a little bit of know-how, and the right products, the post-shave burn can be a thing of the past. Come into al Covo for a Traditional Men's Wet Shave Treatment, to enjoy a double shave (both with and against the hair growth), hot and cold flannels and all these products to leave the skin soft, smooth and feeling good after your shave.

Razor burn occurs after shaving off protruding hair follicles and irregular skin surfaces, and can lead to ingrown hairs, rashes and even infection. However, if you develop smart grooming habits, you can put the days of irritated skin and blood-specked collars behind you.

First of all - a good shave starts before you actually shave.  The area you’re going to shave needs to be clean and thoroughly wet before you begin.  That means washing the area with lots of warm water or (even better) a wash cloth with hot, steamy water, which should be held to the skin for several minutes. Be sure to use a product made for the face - regular soap will strip the skin’s natural oil, drying the skin out. 

Pre-shave oil helps prevent razor burn, and is especially good for those with heavy beards or those prone to razor bumps and ingrown hairs. Apply the oil a few minutes before shaving, but do it gently and don't rub it on. This will soften your hair, make shaving easier and help prevent the razor burn in the first place. Next, thoroughly massage shave cream or gel into the stubble in circular upward motions.

Using a fresh, sharp blade, rinse it often in warm water when shaving and use slow, short strokes. Shave in the direction the hair grows. Shaving against the grain can cause redness, rashes, razor burn and ingrown hairs. Hold your skin, but don't stretch it, and use only the minimum amount of pressure needed. Run the razor under hot water between stokes to clean it, as one leading cause of razor burn is a blade clogged with soap and hair.

Post-shaving, get into the habit of splashing cold water on your skin to close your pores as well as feel good, then apply a good quality oil-free moisturiser to soften and soothe your skin.

Because razor burn causes scabbing and an irregular skin surface, you should avoid shaving again until you have fully healed. Most importantly don't use products with alcohol - especially fragrance - as this can actually increase irritation and reduce healing effects. If you must use aftershave, get an alcohol-free one, which won't dry out your skin. Lastly, never scrub, scratch or pick at your razor burn, as these actions will aggravate the affected skin and subject you to infection risk.

TRY:

Shaving Wash Scrub by The Shave Doctor or Neals Yard Remedies Organic. A scrub sloughs off dead skin layers ensuring fresh skin is visible, and less ingrown hairs, a cause of irritation.

Pre-Shave Oil by The Shave Doctor or Neals Yard Remedies Organic. Essential oils including eucalyptus, peppermint and rosemary are combined with conditioning vitamin E and healing Calendula to create a soothing pre shave oil. The blend of lightweight essential oils softens the beard and prepares the skin for shaving.

Shave Cream by The Shave Doctor or Neals Yard Remedies Organic. Award winning shave creams formulated to penetrate the hair to help prepare the beard for shaving. These prevent nicks and cuts by providing a smoother shave and a cushioned, irritation free shave.

Moisturazor by The Shave Doctor or Neals Yard Remedies Organic. Moisturisers hydrate the skin – essential facial care.

After Shave Balm by The Shave Doctor or Neals Yard Remedies Organic. With sensitive skin in mind these aftershave balms combine skin softening agents and silicone micro particles to soothe and calm your shaved skin.

Best wishes, Steve