SKIN CONDITION #4 - Shaving Rash This week's skin condition is mostly prevalent in men, but can also prove to be a pesky problem for women too - the troublesome irritation shaving rash. The burn, the itch, the redness¦ really every part of this condition is extremely irritating! Not to mention, it can often be quite unsightly. However, we've found the perfect solutions to make shaving rash a hassle of the past - read on below to find out how you can beat the burn! What is Shaving Rash? Shaving rash, or razor burn, is an irritation that occurs to the skin after shaving. Shaving rash is often red and itchy with both the facial and neck area being affected. It can also result in razor bumps which are inflamed lesions caused by ingrown hairs. What causes Shaving Rash? Put simply, shaving rash occurs because the skin is being irritated during the shaving process. However, some more exact reasons for why the rash may be popping up are:
- The soap of shaving cream being used is aggravating the skin - particularly for sensitive skin types
- You aren't using a shaving aid to assist the razor in gliding over the skin - e.g. shaving cream, gentle face wash/soap
- Your razor is dull
- You are pressing to hard
- Regular exfoliation - helps remove dead skin cells as well as lifting soft hairs.
- Soften the hairs - make sure you shave just after taking a shower/bath as your hairs will be nice and soft and easier to shave.
- Shave with the grain using light, short strokes - shaving against the grain may lead to nicks, cuts and shaving rash. Not to mention an increased chance of razor bumps and ingrown hairs.
- Use a badger brush and sharp razor - Using a badger brush encourages your shaving cream to surround each whisker, allowing for smoother shaving results. A sharp razor is also key to help avoid skin tears and irritation.
- Keep your razor clean - bacteria left on the blade between shaves can be a main instigator of irritation and infection! Simply use an alcohol wipe to disinfect your razor between shaves
- Rinse the affected area with cool water to soothe the burn. Ensure to use a gentle patting motion, as rubbing the skin can further aggravate the burn.
- Soothe the skin with a gentle antibacterial product, such as Botáni's Rescue Acne Cream. The Rescue Acne Cream will assist to soothe the burn, reduce redness, relieve itchiness and kill any bacteria to avoid infection. Containing a powerhouse of ingredients, including Golden Seal, Lemon Scented Tea Tree Oil and Echinacea, the Rescue Acne Cream provides gentle relief to your skin. It can also be of assistance in further treatment of razor bumps and ingrown hairs that may arise later.
- Avoid shaving until the irritation has subsided. Also avoid using colognes or aftershaves which can also further irritate the skin.
What's more the Rescue Acne Cream is available in a 3-step kit that is fantastic for achieving that perfect shave - the Skin Rescue Kit! Including the Purify Facial Cleanser 50ml (perfect as a natural shaving cream), Rescue Acne Cream 30g (your savior from shaving rash) and the Boost Balancing Moisturiser 50ml (the perfect after shave balm to moisturise the skin, whilst also providing antibacterial properties to reduce inflammation and infection). It couldn't be more simple to prevent and treat shaving rash! Jenna @ Botáni x
Have you suffered from shaving rash? Or do you know someone who has? Want the chance to try Botáni's Skin Rescue Kit?
For your chance to win a Skin Rescue Kit worth $54.95, simply 'Like' our Facebook page and 'Share' the post about this week's blog with your friends.
Let us know that you've done this by posting a comment below about your experiences with shaving rash. Make sure you include your Facebook name so we can contact you if you win!*
Getting healthier skin is that simple!
*Competition is only open to Australian residents. Entries are open from March 26- March 28 2014. We will announce the winner by Facebook and on the blog on Friday 28th March 2014; the winner will also be contacted privately.