Aquaphor: this common healing ointment will keep the skin hydrated and cooled as it heals. Lotion: a gentle, fragrance-free lotion can help soothe razor-burned skin.
I typically use Aquaphor on Razor Burn when I do get them. Great moisturizing that lasts a long time when applied.
Rinse with cool water
After you shave, Dr. Bullock recommends rinsing thoroughly with warm water to remove all traces of your shaving cream. Then, rinse with cool water to close those pores back up and prevent bacteria, dirt and other irritants from getting in.
An over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or topical antibiotic cream can help your razor burn in this especially sensitive area heal faster. Be aware that exercise such as walking or running might make your razor burn worse. If your rash appears to be infected, see your doctor.
A simple bland ointment like Aquaphor or Vaseline works. But if it's more inflamed or pus comes out, you may want to use an OTC antibiotic ointment like Neosporin to prevent infection. Pro tip: If you need an emergency spot treatment, you can use some OTC hydrocortisone 1% cream to help reduce inflammation.
Use this medication on the skin only. However, do not use it on the face or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor. Some products are meant to be used on the scalp for various conditions. To correctly use these products, follow the directions on the product package.
Exfoliate with a gentle product afterwards, and apply super-soothing moisturizer. If you experience inflammation after either shaving or waxing, you can apply a thin layer of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream mixed with your moisturizer twice a day to decrease redness and inflammation.
According to experts, exfoliating immediately after shaving isn't a good idea. This is because the skin is sensitive after shaving, and exfoliating may irritate already tender skin. You may also want to avoid AHA, BHA, or retinol body lotions for a day or two after shaving for the same reason.
How often to shave depends on your genetics and your preferred end result. In general, we recommend shaving every two to three days if you want a clean shave; three to five days if you want to simply style or trim; and if you want to just let your hair grow, then simply stop shaving.
While splashes tend to be the most recommended for normal skin, choosing a gel, lotion, or balm is also alright. It's smart to still avoid aftershaves containing alcohol, and natural ingredients such as witch hazel or tea tree oil will always be best.
Generally speaking, Aquaphor will not clog pores on your face. It's considered non-comedogenic and doesn't contain any true breakout-inducing ingredients.
While they look and feel similar, their ingredients are different. Aquaphor combines petrolatum with several moisturizing and skin-healing ingredients. Vaseline is 100% petrolatum. Aquaphor is the better choice to use on very dry skin, chapped lips, and eczema.
Exfoliation will also assist in releasing ingrown hairs so they can be properly treated. Daily moisturizing is very important to maintain the health of the skin. We recommend using a small amount of AquaphorⓇ and thoroughly massaging it into the treatment area.
Aloe vera moisturizes and soothes your skin while healing it at the same time. Home remedies such as apple cider vinegar, witch hazel extract or tea tree oil mixed with water can help stop inflammation from razor burn. You can also try an oatmeal bath or put on an over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone cream.
Bachowski says to use a witch hazel-based aftershave to help close the pores after shaving and keep bacteria out. “Look for ingredients such as aloe or chamomile as they will help calm the skin of irritation and redness,” says Bachowski.
Make irritated shaving cuts a thing of the past
It's inevitable to experience cuts and nicks from shaving sometimes. However, there is a remedy to prevent excessive blood flow. Rubbing some petroleum jelly on your cuts will act as a sealant and slow down the bleeding.
Hence, you should rinse your face with cold water post-shaving. Cold water closes the pores and makes sure your skin remains as healthy as it was before the shave. Also, avoid using aftershave products that are alcohol based. It drains the moisture out of the skin, leaving it dry.
Treat the skin with a disinfectant after every shave to avoid infected hair follicles making their presence known. High-quality aftershaves contain disinfectant, so apply liberally afterwards.
Apply to the skin only. Avoid sensitive areas such as your eyes, inside your mouth/nose, and the vaginal/groin area, unless the label or your doctor directs you otherwise.
And though you can use both for wound care, neither Vaseline nor Aquaphor is a substitute for a visit to the doctor. “Both can trap bacteria if used on broken or infected skin,” Dr. Paul warns.