What does a shaving rash look like?
Have you noticed your skin is inflamed, red and itchy after shaving? Maybe you get uncomfortable lumps, unsightly bumps, and even ingrown hairs? Shaving rash, razor burn, and razor bumps are unpleasant, yet common side effects of shaving with a razor to remove unwanted body hair.
What causes shaving rash?
Anyone can suffer from shaving rash. However, if you have naturally sensitive skin, you may be more prone to uncomfortable breakouts than others. Shaving rash can appear anywhere on your body – your face, your legs, underarms, bikini line. Anywhere you use a razor is vulnerable to razor burn.
The tender, red and itchy rash you get after shaving can be caused or aggravated by a combination of factors. These include the type of razor you use, your shaving technique, and your skin type.
If managing annoying (and uncomfortable) post-shave bumps is part and parcel of your daily skincare routine, it could be that you’re suffering from
ingrown hairs caused by shaving with a razor. Pseudofollicullitis (to give it its medical name) occurs when the cut hair stubble curls back on itself and continues to grow under the skin.
1 This causes flesh coloured bumps to appear. Stubble is tougher than regular, young hair, so it’s easy to see how it can cause such aggravation.
According to the British Association of Dermatologists, it’s a condition more prevalent in people with curly hair.2 Over time, ingrown hairs can get uncomfortable and even become infected. So, it’s important to treat (and where possible, prevent) them as soon as possible.
How can I prevent shaving irritation and razor bumps?
Preparing your skin properly, before you even reach for the blade is the first step to smooth and rash-free skin. Here we share top tips for preventing shaving rash from skincare experts, including the British Association of Dermatologists.