Does aftershave help with razor bumps?

Are they razor bumps or razor burn?

Razor bumps are inflammation caused by trapped or ingrown hairs. They often look like individual pimples and can feel itchy or tender. Coarse, curly hair is more likely to grow back into the skin, but razor bumps can affect any skin tone and appear anywhere you remove hair, including the legs, armpits and pubic area. Razor burn is the irritated rash after shaving. A moisturizing aftershave can help dry, irritated skin; preventing ingrown hairs requires changes to hair removal too.2345

Which aftershave should you use?

Look for a soothing aftershave intended to reduce shaving irritation, without alcohol or fragrance. A fragrance free moisturizing lotion is another option for restoring moisture after razor burn. If you also get acne, choose products labelled oil free or noncomedogenic, meaning they are formulated not to clog pores. Some aftershaves contain oils that can contribute to acne. If a product is causing breakouts, stopping it can allow clearing over 4 to 6 weeks.26

For burning discomfort, a cool, wet washcloth can help. Aloe vera gel can ease discomfort from razor burn, but it is not a cure. Avoid witch hazel and apple cider vinegar on irritated skin because they can sting.2

How should you apply aftershave?

1. 1Wash with a gentle facial cleanser and rinse thoroughly. Soften beard hair with a warm compress for five minutes, or shave at the end of your shower.
2. 2Apply moisturizing shaving cream and let it sit for one or two minutes. Keep the cream wet while shaving.
3. 3Use a sharp razor, shave with hair growth and use short strokes without stretching the skin or pressing hard. Avoid a close shave.
4. 4Rinse away all shaving cream with warm water, then hold a cool, wet washcloth against the skin for five minutes.
5. 5Apply the soothing aftershave. Stop using the product if it burns or stings.
6. 6Dry the razor and store it somewhere dry.

Aftershave is the finishing step, not a retrospective edit of how you shaved.1

What helps with razor bumps?

Stopping shaving, waxing and tweezing is the most reliable way to let razor bumps settle. Inflammation commonly takes 4 to 6 weeks to ease as hairs grow out. Some new bumps can still appear after your last shave; beard bumps can take up to three months to disappear.13

If you continue shaving, try an electric shaver or trimmer and leave about 1 mm of stubble. Shaving every second day rather than daily is one approach, but no single technique works for everyone. Do not pick, squeeze or pluck trapped hairs. A pharmacist can help you choose exfoliating products to prevent ingrown hairs. Moisturizers containing glycolic acid can exfoliate the surface and reduce new inflamed spots.3457

A clean, dry storage spot is part of razor care, even if the shower is a more convenient parking space.1

When should you get medical help?

See a dermatologist if bumps persist despite changing your shaving technique, because ongoing inflammation can cause scars. Folliculitis, an inflamed or infected hair follicle, can look similar and needs treatment matched to its cause. A clinician can consider prescription creams for inflammation or infection. Get medical help if the area is very painful, hot or swollen, or if you have a fever or feel shivery or very unwell.157