The Men's Room

Razor burnRazor burn… Just saying the words make me angry! Why? Because it should never happen to me or anyone else.

We should all hate it. The redness, burning, itching, over-sensitivity… these are all symptoms. And the worst part is that these symptoms can lead to more visible frustration, razor bumps!

How you get it and its severity depends on many reasons (will discuss below). But the bottom line is, it ranges from person to person and I promise… if you haven’t already experienced it, you don’t ever want to!

Here are a few reasons why:

  • Blade/s too sharp
  • Blade/s too dull
  • Too many blades
  • Too many passes/strokes
  • Too much pressure
  • Shaving too fast
  • Shaving too often
  • Lack of moisture
  • Shaving against the grain (for some)
  • Ignoring your sensitive areas and shaving them the same way as you do the rest.

As you can see, the list is long, and honestly could be longer when considering men with unique circumstances (but you can email me for more details if that’s you). Regardless of the reason, the best way to avoid “razor burn” is to…

  1. Know your face – Knowing the direction your hair grows is best, especially if going against the grain has ever caused you pain. Also, be aware of the sensitive areas of the skin. This way you can prep those areas heavier or leave for last.
  2. Moisture – You can never have too much moisture on your face. The wetter and softer you can get your face, the less effort it is to take the beard off. This equals less strokes, which means less time the blade is on your face. If you want it a bit closer… re-lather!
  3. Heal & Moisturize – A splash of cold water (or the Big Chill) will bring your skin back in balance by calming and also tightening the skin. Then, grab your favorite aftershave balm that’s designed to heal and also moisturize the skin.  The healing is especially important because your skin will definitely be going through this process again very soon!

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5 Comments

  1. Kevin J Roberge November 28, 2011 at 11:55 pm

    I usually use an electric razor but, Have to do so many passes over my face I actually run the battery down. and I do purchase new foil & blades. Sometimes I use a razor with good results if it’s sharp!
    I’m considering purchasing a double edge razor can you suggest any? and any good replacement blades. I have Shaving Oil to use with blades that seems to work well. but, if you can suggest a better cream/lotion for a double edge razor I would appreciate your great advice.

    Thanks,Kevin

    • Craig the Barber November 29, 2011 at 6:06 pm

      Hello Kevin thanks for the comment! As for a double edged razor recommendation.. Hmm… that’s a tough one because there are so many to choose from. Edwin Jagger is pretty good, however, I always seem to gravitate to the Merkur line. Particularly, the “HD” or ‘Heavy Classic” 34c Safety Razor. It can be easily found in stores and online along with their blades, and the price point is fair.

      As for a shaving cream, I am really enjoying the lather being produced by The New York Shaving Company’s – Elizabeth Street shaving cream. Please feel free to peruse through my POTM (Product of the Month) category there are many more recommendations as well!

      I hope that helps, and best of luck!

  2. Delford June 25, 2012 at 10:47 am
  3. William September 6, 2012 at 9:07 pm

    In this day in age there is no reason to keep suffering from razor rash. There are products that work. I now use this product from Swedish Skin Care called “Razor Burn Freedom”. I found it on Amazon actually but ended up googeling it and purchasing it from their website. I’m glad I did, it is truly a great product and I use it regularly.

  4. Jim February 19, 2013 at 1:32 pm

    Best After Shave Product – Razor Burn Freedom from Swedish Skin Care! If you are looking for something to try, this product should be on your list.

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