How should I care for my skin after shaving?

What should I do immediately after shaving?

1. 1Rinse with cool water. If your skin feels irritated, place a cool, damp washcloth over the area.
2. 2Gently pat with a clean towel rather than rubbing. Leave your skin slightly damp.
3. 3Apply a gentle, fragrance free moisturizer immediately.
4. 4After shaving your body, choose loose clothing rather than tight clothing or underwear that rubs against the shaved area.

What should I put on my face after shaving?

Choose a gentle moisturizer labeled "fragrance free." A plain moisturizer can do the job; the word "aftershave" is not a job qualification. For dry skin, a cream or ointment provides more moisture than a lotion. "Unscented" is not the same as fragrance free: products can contain chemicals that mask odors and irritate dry, sensitive skin. Protect exposed skin with broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, alongside shade and protective clothing.2

Should I moisturize after shaving?

Yes. Moisturizer rehydrates skin after shaving, and applying it while skin is damp helps relieve dryness. Use it after each shave, whether you shave in the morning or evening. If your skin remains dry, reapply when it feels dry, several times a day if needed. For dry legs with dark follicle spots after shaving, regular moisturizing can also improve their appearance; avoid products containing fragrances or dyes.124

Can I use aftershave on sensitive skin?

A moisturizing aftershave is an option, but avoid formulas containing alcohol, fragrance or other irritants if your skin is dry or irritated. Sensitive skin is more prone to razor burn, so choose gentle products. Tell a dermatologist if products, including moisturizer, cause burning, stinging or irritation.23

How do I prevent razor burn?

Start before the blade touches your skin. Shave at the end of a warm shower or bath, when water has softened your skin and hair. Apply shaving cream or gel and leave it on for two to three minutes to soften the hair further. Shaving cream is less irritating and more moisturizing than soap. Aim for one pass over each area, not a performance review of the first pass.12

Use a sharp, clean blade and shave in the direction of hair growth with short, light strokes. Rinse the blade frequently to remove hair and shaving cream. Replace it after about six shaves, or sooner if it becomes blunt or damaged. Clean and dry your razor, then store it somewhere dry rather than leaving it in the shower.14

What if my skin is already irritated?

Razor burn usually appears within minutes of shaving as a blotchy rash, with possible burning, itching or tenderness. It typically lasts a few hours to a few days. Use a cool washcloth and moisturizer, and avoid shaving the affected area until it clears. Contact a healthcare provider if the rash does not improve within a few days or looks infected.3

Small bumps that resemble pimples can be ingrown hairs rather than razor burn. Persistent rough bumps on the thighs can also be keratosis pilaris, a condition in which dead skin builds up around hair follicles; shaving can make those bumps worse. Avoid aggressive scrubbing. If bumps persist or worsen, or you develop pain, swelling or itching, seek medical advice rather than treating every post shave mark as the same problem.345