Thread: Razor Burn

I've just recently started SR shaving, so I'm getting the average amount of newbie razor burn & minor nicks. I've tried Nivea Sensitive balm, Aqua Velva (Glycerin + Menthonol), and Adidas (Glycol, Menthonol (not nearly as much as AV), and some Witch Hazel). None of the above work well for making the red patches of razor burn on my neck less red & sensitive.

Is there anything that will fix the effects of razor burn better than the 3 AS's above while I'm learning better technique ?

Thanks.

How often are you shaving? I found when I was starting, that I had to give it a rest for a day or so. Eventually, I was able to shave daily without significant irritation. If your fob doesn't requre a clean shaven appearance, you might try putting yourself on an every other day schedule. Also, many here rave about alum block. I can't comment, since I haven't used it, but it may be worth a try.

I don't think their is any magic cure out there that will fix razor burn in 30 minutes. Try an alum block and Proraso Pre/Post. Both of these work well for me

first, address the burn at the likely cause: use less pressure, and a smaller angle. some say to shave with your weak hand and observe the pressure you use then; this is the pressure you ought to be using throughout your shave. also, be sure to use freezing cold water to wash the lather afterwards. hot water preshave, cold water postshave.

second, i use body shop fragrance free aftershave gel (but any alcohol based gel would do), let it dry and then apply penhaligon's blenheim bouquet aftershave balm.

ymmv, but i've had similar problems in the past and these practices helped me.

Light touch, good technique, good face prep and good shaving soap will minimize razor burn. I use the same sensative aftershave and its more for remoisturizing the skin as the skin gets dried out from shaving off all the natural skin oils while shaving.

My face looked a little rough and razor burn starting out as well.

Good Luck and welcome to straight shaving.

Pabster

I use Trumpers Sandalwood skin food after a cold towel and this works very well for me.

You might also try waiting a day between shaves, and keep the pressure light. A well honed razor requires no pressure to cut the hair, so if you're bearing down hard on the razor you will irritate your skin.

Do you do an ATG pass? Some peoples skin is really not up to this pass. Mine isnt for sure, and if I try it I get horrible razor burn. You may find that cutting this pass out helps as well.

Good luck!

In my limited experience I haven't found aftershaves to be not particularly effective in getting rid of razor burn. The best thing is to develop the skills necessary to avoid it in the first place. That really is more of a function of face prep, good lather, good stropping, and the least amount of pressure to keep the blade on your face. The more the pressure, the greater the chances of the burn.