Thread: Razor burn!!

I know this is such a silly question, but I feel I need to ask it anyway; what is the best wayto deal with razor burn? I began using a straight razor not too long ago, and my first shave which was much anticipated, left menwith a really good feeling, so I attempted the same shave the next day, and ended up with razor burn from hell!! Since I am still waiting for my new Col. Conk shave soap to come in, I ran out and found some "invisible no lather shaving gel" it worked good for lubrication and didn't dry out, so I was pleased. Unfortunately I made a horrible rookie mistake the next day and used regular shaving cream... I know now why not to!!! So two questions, what is the best way to treat razor burn? And how long should I wait before I attempt the shave again? Any tips are welcome, and I have read the wikis on the site since that time, so I painfully learned my lesson.

Definitely take at least one day off and probably two to let the skin heal. Then, I suggest you get an alum block or witch hazel as this will act as an antiseptic to heal the skin. Then, you should probably get a nice, moisturizing aftershave balm. Something that will replenish and heal the skin. I have been using Institut Karite Aftershave Balm or Crabtree & Evelyn Nomad. These seem to work well, although the C&E is a little higher priced, but available at your local mall most likely. ON the cheaper side, Nivea Sensitive always worked well for me.

Also, your skin may just be adjusting to the new way of shaving. It might take some time to get used to it.

I expected a couple nicks, and like I said I had expected alot less from my disposable heads, but the first time came out good. I and definitely picking up some witch hazel, and probably a decent after shave balm. I'll porbably attempt another shave tommorow, but I just don't get why canned shaving cream doesn't work, there really isn't anything that's says not to, as well as the fact that when I walk into the barber for a straight shave, he usually has a heated cream dispenser, isn't that just canned cream? I know I'm showing my inexperience but i figured this is the place to ask, then to guess on my own. I really appreciate theheads up on the witch hazel, is that a standard that I should always have around? Thanks again everyone.

You should definitely always have Wtich Hazel around. It is excellent stuff and it can be used as an astringent/toner even when you're not shaving. I really like using Alum after my shaves. I have noticed a big difference in the complexion of my skin since I started using alum. It burns upon application if your shave was bad, but it is worth it.

As far as the canned goop, the first thing that comes to mind is it does not have the quality ingredients of a good soap. No shea butter, lanolin, palm oil, glycerin, etc. These things all moisturize and provide glide so the razor does not scrape the skin as much.

The alum block if I remember correctly has the same base ingredients as styptic pencils, but I would have never expected a better complexion with the alum block. Thanks for the advice. It's funny I look so forward to shaving but this damn razor burn is ruining my plans. Im glad I'm starting with a disposable as compared to a straight full blade, as it gives me time to Lear the techniques, any tips on disposables? You've been a great help. Thanks again.

When you say disposable....are you referring to a disposable straight razor?

1+ for the witch hazel & a decent balm excellent post shave treatment

Originally Posted by Fbones24

When you say disposable....are you referring to a disposable straight razor?

I apologize for any confusion that I may have caused. When I say disposable i mean a straight razor with disposable blades. It's a 20$ Persona razor. It does the job... It was a gift. Just looking for a good budget friendly razor as a starter. Found a Kriegar but was quickly corrected as to not buy it. So I think I may peruse the classified again, but I'm always open to any suggestions

++1 on the previous advice. Don't shave for a day or two. Apply witch hazel to your face as well as some aftershave balm such as Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Post Shave Balm to the affected areas. Let your face recover. You should be good as new in short order.

I hope that this helps.

Originally Posted by joshb1000

I apologize for any confusion that I may have caused. When I say disposable i mean a straight razor with disposable blades. It's a 20$ Persona razor. It does the job... It was a gift. Just looking for a good budget friendly razor as a starter. Found a Kriegar but was quickly corrected as to not buy it. So I think I may peruse the classified again, but I'm always open to any suggestions

Well, the razor burn may be due to the blade you are using. I tried a "disposable straight" once and I never used it again. I think the shave with a true straight is much gentler and kinder to your skin.

I have a JR Torrey for sale in the Classifieds right now. If you want it, it is yours for the cost of shipping. It would be a very cheap way to get started. Of course, you will need a strop and the aforementioned soap and brush. I will not send it to you unless you promise to stop using canned goop!