What to do about razor burn
Razor burn describes irritated skin after shaving, often with burning and widespread redness. Bumps, pus or persistent itching can have other causes.
First steps
- Stop shaving and rinse away residue with comfortably temperate water.
- Pat dry gently. A cool, damp compress may soothe the skin; do not apply ice directly.
- Use an already tolerated, fragrance-free moisturizer on intact skin. Leave out products that burn.
- Pause until the skin settles. Do not scrub or add extra fragrances or active ingredients.
Prevention
Little pressure, hydrated lather and a few strokes with the grain reduce mechanical stress. Replace a blade that tugs and avoid repeated touch-ups against the grain.
Seek advice for persistent or recurring symptoms. Increasing pain, warmth, swelling, pus, spreading redness or fever requires medical assessment.
Read more: Skin irritation, Ingrown hairs.
Editorial comparison with the sources below: 10 October 2026 ยท Editor: Rasurapp.