How to get rid of razor rash – 10 tips for quick relief

Pimples after shaving vs. razor burn
Sometimes red pimples appear after shaving, other times red spots or streaks that burn, sting and sometimes even itch. Pimples after shaving in intimate areas and other parts of the body most often occur when hair grows back into the skin after shaving. They look like small pimples or acne and can appear virtually anywhere, but are more common in intimate areas.
Red spots or streaks after shaving occur because the razor can create small cracks in the upper layer of the skin when removing hair. These then lead to irritation. Burning or itchy red spots on the skin are caused not only by irritation during shaving, but also as a reaction to an ingredient in the shaving product. If you have more sensitive skin, an allergic rash may also appear on your face. 

Shaving rash – where it most commonly occurs and why
Shaving rash can appear virtually anywhere, but some parts of the body are more prone to irritation than others.

Shaving rash on intimate areas and in the groin
Rash after shaving the groin and intimate areas is very common because the skin in this area is very sensitive and shaving requires extra care. The problem is that the hairs often grow in different directions, making it difficult to judge the correct razor stroke.

Rash after shaving the armpits
The armpits are also prone to irritation because they are often exposed to friction, sweat and deodorant residue. The skin in this area is thin and the hairs grow in different directions, which increases the risk of ingrown hairs.

Rash after shaving the legs
Although the skin on the legs is more resistant, rashes, itching or ingrown hairs can also occur here, especially if you shave dry or with a blunt razor.

Rash on the neck 
Rash after shaving your beard occurs not only on the cheeks, but also on the neck. Shaving your neck is not as easy as it may seem at first glance. Beard hair grows at a different angle than elsewhere on the body and often in a different direction.

How to get rid of rash after shaving
Shaving irritation can be painful and usually goes away on its own, but there are steps you can take to speed up the healing process. To relieve the unpleasant burning sensation after shaving, use soothing products that protect the skin and keep it hydrated.

What helps irritated skin after shaving?
1. Cool
 Apply a cold, clean towel or washcloth to the irritated area. This compress will immediately soothe and relieve the burning sensation.
2. Cream for post-shave pimples
Try Dermaguard barrier cream, which is fragrance-free and creates an invisible protective shield on the skin against external influences. Its advantage is that it not only regenerates but also protects against further irritation. It is also suitable for sensitive and atopic skin. You can find it in our e-shop, in selected pharmacies or on Alza. 
3. Aloe vera
 This is the best natural product for soothing after shaving – you will feel relief within an hour. It moisturises perfectly, has anti-inflammatory effects and contains glucomannan and gibberellin. Thanks to these substances, it helps heal wounds and also prevents scarring.
4. Shea butter
Moisturises and has anti-inflammatory effects.
5. Green tea
Helps regenerate skin cells.
6. Panthenol
Moisturises and helps heal wounds.
7. Oatmeal bath
For larger areas, you can also try an oatmeal bath. Oats have natural soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
8. Natural oils such as jojoba, avocado, coconut or olive oil
These are excellent for moisturising the skin and creating a soft protective layer. Jojoba oil also contains vitamin E and has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
9. Tea tree oil
Disinfects irritated skin and prevents infection. However, use it with caution – always diluted, for example with coconut or jojoba oil, to avoid further irritation.
10. Hydrocortisone cream or topical antibiotic cream
These will help heal irritation after shaving more quickly.

What to avoid if you have red pimples after shaving
Avoid creams containing alcohol, strongly perfumed products and overly thick products that can clog pores.
Until the irritation has healed, it is best to wait before shaving again. Also avoid exercise such as running, which can aggravate irritation after shaving in the intimate area.
 
How long do pimples take to disappear after shaving
For most people, minor pimples or irritation after shaving disappear within 1 to 3 days if you allow your skin to rest and provide it with proper care. The speed of healing depends on the sensitivity of your skin and how you treat the irritated skin.
If the pimples do not disappear within a week, worsen or become painful or festering, it may be ingrown hair or an infection – in which case it is best to consult a doctor.

Manual or electric razor?
There is no universal answer to this question. Both methods of shaving have their advantages – and risks.

Manual shaving
A classic razor can shave really smoothly – but it comes at a price. The blade is in direct contact with the skin and can slightly damage its surface when shaving. If you have dry or sensitive skin, irritation, burning or even small cuts may occur. Shaving technique and care are important: a sharp razor, gel and, above all, no rushing.
What about the number of blades? It may surprise you, but more blades are not necessarily better. Five-blade razors promise a perfectly smooth result, but they rub a larger area of skin with each stroke, increasing the risk of irritation. For more sensitive skin, a two- or three-blade razor may be more suitable as it is gentler.

Shaving with an electric razor
Razor burn is not as common after shaving with an electric razor as it is after shaving by hand. This is because the blades of the razor do not come into direct contact with the skin – they gently cut the hairs just above the surface, which means less risk of irritation. On the other hand, you won't get such a perfectly smooth result, and some people may find the slight pulling of hairs annoying, especially with cheaper razors.
What to choose?
If you often suffer from rash after shaving your intimate areas or other places, try to focus on gentleness rather than perfect smoothness. An electric razor is usually less harsh on sensitive skin, regardless of where you shave. However, even when shaving manually, you can prevent rashes by taking care to follow the correct pre- and post-shave routine. 

Preventing rashes after shaving
If you want to get rid of pimples after shaving intimate areas and other parts of the body, focus on prevention. The most important recommendations include:
1. The best time to shave is after a shower – the skin is clean, moist and warm, which makes shaving easier and reduces the risk of irritation.
2. Apply shaving gel or cream to the area to be shaved. Choose a gentle product that does not irritate the skin.
3. Take your time.
4. Shave with light strokes in the direction of hair growth. Rinse the razor after each stroke to remove any accumulated dirt.
5. Store razors in a dry place and replace them often. They should stay sharp and free of rust or deposits.
6. Choose a quality razor and apply an unscented moisturising cream after shaving to restore the skin's natural barrier.

It's possible without irritation
Rashes after shaving the groin and other areas are often just the result of bad habits. By choosing the right technique, taking a gentle approach and moisturising and soothing your skin after shaving, you can get rid of rashes completely – or prevent them before they even start.

Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23583-razor-burn
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/razor-burn
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/remedies-relieve-razor-burn