Causes of irritation after shaving
Perfectly shaven, smooth skin is very desirable, but often after shaving, we may feel disappointed with the results, as symptoms such as:
* rash,
* sensitivity to touch,
* redness,
* feeling itchy,
* burning sensation.
Regardless of whether we are epilating the face, bikini area, armpits or legs, irritation can occur in each of these parts of the body with the same intensity and symptoms. It is worth remembering factors that negatively affect the appearance of the skin in order to avoid irritation after shaving the next time you use it. Thanks to this, epilation will become much more pleasant, and most of all, you can put on shorts or a bathing suit without fear.
The main cause of redness after shaving is disposable razors. Left in a damp place - for example in a shower, they are a habitat of bacteria, through which, in contact with the skin, keratosis or infection may occur. What's more, razors used too often become dull, contrary to appearances, causing more damage than the sharp ones. Instead of cutting the hairs, they irritate the skin, creating micro damages that, on contact with bacteria, lead to irritation after shaving.
Our schedule often includes a spontaneous trip to the swimming pool or sauna. We want to achieve the effect of smooth skin and in a hurry we reach for the razor - unfortunately this is a mistake! After epilation, the skin is sensitive and dry, and therefore more prone to irritation. Try to avoid last minute hair removal. Also, minimize staying in places where the skin is subject to unfavorable conditions.
Tight clothes are not our ally in the fight against irritation. Especially when it comes to the bikini area. When you shave and put on your underwear right away, it will rub against your skin, creating irritation. This is one of the most common causes of shaving spots. To avoid this, perform the procedure well in advance. A good solution is epilation of intimate areas in the evening.
Remember, shaving technique is key! Do not press the razor strongly against the skin, as this can severely irritate it and lead to jamming. Try to make gentle movements. Also remember that you shouldn't dry shave. Before performing these activities, it is also worth taking care of the cleanliness of the razor.
Irritation after depilation in the armpits
One of the most vulnerable places is the armpits. Many of us have a problem with itching or redness after shaving. Remember not to use alcohol-based deodorants after depilation, as the skin in this area is very delicate and prone to damage. Products containing ingredients of natural origin will help you care for these places.
Irritation after facial hair removal
We are talking primarily about the problematic mustache. In the case of epilation with patches, the cause of irritation is often too high temperature of the wax. It is worth remembering to exfoliate the epidermis before using such depilation, e.g. using an enzyme peeling, which is ideal for sensitive skin. If your skin has blemishes, such as acne, consult a dermatologist. Doing epilation yourself in this case can exacerbate the problem.
Irritation after shaving intimate places
The skin in the bikini area is just as sensitive as in the armpits. These are hard to reach areas, so you are more likely to cut yourself shaving. Before depilation in intimate places, peel should be performed relatively earlier (about 2-3 days). The hair in this place is quite thick and strong. Therefore, shave with the hair, not against the grain. Thanks to this, you will avoid irritation. Additionally, apply a foam that will soften both the skin and hair.
Irritation after shaving the legs
It might seem that the legs are the least susceptible to irritation - unfortunately they are not. After all, they are the ones most often subjected to hair removal treatments. . Use a scrub before shaving. Thanks to this, you will remove unnecessary epidermis and the skin will be softer. It is worth applying foam a few minutes before shaving, which will additionally soften the hair. Remember not to expose your legs to UV radiation immediately after shaving. This may result in the appearance of red stinging dots. So if you are planning on sunbathing, epilate at least one day in advance.
Skin care before epilation
✓ Use a moisturizing lotion daily to keep your skin soft. Thanks to this, it will be more susceptible to removing unwanted hair.
✓ Use the peeling the day before the treatment at the latest.
✓ Thoroughly wash the area to be epilated, preferably with warm water, as it softens the skin.
Skin care after depilation
A very important element that affects healthy skin without irritation is its after-shave care. After the procedure:
✓ Rinse the legs with cool water and wash the skin thoroughly with cosmetics designed for this purpose. Such gels should have anti-inflammatory and, above all, moisturizing properties, because the skin is dry right after shaving. Aloe vera is a good choice for these cosmetics because it has properties that soothe the skin.
✓ Do not use a rough towel, try to gently rub the skin so as not to irritate the skin.
✓ If you absolutely must use an antiperspirant, use an antiperspirant that does not contain alcohol.
✓ Use moisturizing and soothing lotions for dry skin.
Cosmetic in gredients that should be avoided after depilation
Essential oils - try to choose cosmetics that do not contain essential oils, because despite their natural origin, they can be highly sensitizing and irritating due to the fact that they often contain allergens such as: isoeugenol, linalool, citronellol, limonene and others.
Fragrances - usually referred to as fragrances or parfum in cosmetics - these blends can contain many chemicals that are bad for the skin, especially right after depilation. Try to choose cosmetics whose composition is precisely defined.
Methylisothiazolinone, Disodium, Tetrasodium, Triclosan - these are preserving ingredients that can sensitize and irritate the skin.
Sulfate - i.e. SLS and SLES, thanks to them, dirt and grease is removed from the skin, but their strong action can also deprive the skin's natural PH.
For care, just after shaving, try to use cosmetics for sensitive skin, thanks to which you will avoid unpleasant irritation.
Home remedies for irritation after shaving
If the smell or burning sensation is unbearable and you want to deal with it quickly and easily, there are several proven home remedies - you'll surely find the ingredients you need in your kitchen cupboard.
➤ Black Tea - It may seem bizarre, but one of the easiest ways to irritate your skin is with a chilled black tea bag! Why? Because it contains taminic acid, which has a positive effect on dermatitis. Preparation is as easy as using, just brew the tea as usual and cool the used teabags in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes. You can wipe the irritated places even several times a day with a bag prepared in this way.
➤ Aspirin - in the case of a cold, we often use this drug, but it is also worth knowing that it soothes irritations after depilation. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help in faster healing of the resulting wounds. If you have very sensitive skin, this treatment is not recommended. To prepare the solution, just crush two tablets and dissolve them in a small amount of water to form a thick mass. You can put the prepared medicine in place of the pain.
➤ Oil - natural home oils perfectly moisturize the skin, thanks to them you can easily soothe irritations and reduce the accompanying itching sensation. So if you have avocado or coconut oil in your kitchen, you can safely apply it to places where you feel discomfort after shaving.
Summary
Irritation after shaving, unfortunately, can be very bothersome and uncomfortable. If you follow proper hygiene and learn a few habits, which are briefly described below in the form of rules, it will certainly have a positive effect on the skin, both before and after shaving. Each subsequent epilation will result in less irritation and no unwanted red spots. To sum up, in order to avoid irritation after shaving, it is worth remembering a few rules:
Do not leave the razor in wet places.
* Try to have the razor replaced as often as possible, clean the tool after each use.
* Make sure your skin is properly moisturized before and after shaving.
* Soften the skin under a stream of warm water.
* Use peels.
* Choose the right cosmetics.
* Avoid situations and places where you can irritate the skin.
If you follow the above rules and you still have irritation after shaving, you should consult a dermatologist, your problem may need to be consulted and treated.
