Not everyone has the time or the budget to book a waxing session or laser appointments. Sometimes, shaving is the fastest and most convenient way to remove hair—especially if you’re in a rush for, let’s say, a last-minute beach trip with friends! The downside to it, though, is that shaving can lead to itching.
If you want to know why this happens, plus how you can soothe it and even prevent it from happening in the future, then you've come to the right page. Ahead, we’re sharing the best tips on how to soothe and prevent itching after shaving.
Everything You Need to Know About Soothing and Preventing Itching After Shaving
Why does itching happen after shaving?
There are three main reasons why you could be itchy after shaving. Firstly, you might be using a dull razor. This can cause the razor to tug and twist the hair follicle while you shave. Or, you're probably dry shaving, meaning you're shaving without creams or gels to lubricate your skin and hair. And lastly, you might be over shaving. When you over shave on a certain area, it can cause razor burns, which are red, irritated patches of skin that may result in bumpy, ingrown hairs.
How can you soothe the itching?
Luckily, the itching won't last forever. There are a couple of tricks and tips to soothe the itching and calm your irritated skin and it mainly has to do with moisturizing.
The key is to use a moisturizer that is free from fragrances and alcohol, such as the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion. This dermatologist-approved moisturizer doesn't contain any harsh ingredients making it the ideal moisturizer even around the bikini line. It's enriched with hyaluronic acid that will hydrate your skin from deep within, leaving you with a soft and supple feel.
PHOTO BY CERAVEDaily Moisturizing Lotion, P1700.04, CERAVE, Lazada
You could also use a hydrocortisone cream. This is usually used to treat rashes and razor burns. The Vanicream 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream is a great option as it has a low enough hydrocortisone level to not need a prescription but enough to calm irritation.
HC 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream, P950, VANICREAM, beautymnl.com
Aloe vera and witch hazel are also said to be anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients that are safe to use around the genitals.
How can you prevent the itching?
Itching doesn't always occur after shaving. It's preventable, not inevitable. So if you want to avoid the itching from happening in the first place, keep these tips in mind:
1. Trim long hairs before shaving using small trimming scissors.
2. Take a hot shower or bath with before shaving to soften the skin and hair.
3. Make sure the razor you're using isn’t dull. Use a new razor for every shave if possible.
4. Use shaving cream or a lubricant such as baby oil or aloe vera while you shave.
5. Shave in the direction your hair grows to avoid tugging at the hair follicles and creating ingrowns.
6. Wear loose, breathable clothing and underwear after shaving to avoid friction which can increase irritation.
When to call the doctor
Call a doctor if the itching wont go away after three days, or if you notice any blood or pus around the area where you shaved. These are common signs of an infection.
Hey, Preview readers! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and Twitter to stay up to speed on all things trendy and creative. We’ll curate the most stylish feed for you!
