Face burning after shaving? Here is what to apply
If your face burns after shaving and your cheeks feel tight a few hours later, you are not the only one. With every pass, the razor takes a thin layer off the very outside of your skin along with the hair.
What does shaving do to your skin?
The outermost layer of your skin keeps its moisture in. When the razor takes a little of this layer away, your skin loses more water for a while and becomes more sensitive to everything that comes from outside. The stinging, redness and afternoon tightness come from this.
A blunt razor, going over the same spot again and again, and shaving without foam make this effect bigger.
Why is an alcohol-based lotion not a good idea?
Alcohol-based after-shave lotions feel cooling at first. But as the alcohol evaporates, it takes the water in your skin with it, and your already worn-out skin dries out even more. The tightness a few hours later usually comes from this.
Three steps after shaving
A simple habit solves most of it:
- Rinse your face with cold or lukewarm water.
- Don't rub with a towel; pat dry gently.
- While your skin is still a little damp, apply a pea-sized amount of cream.
What kind of cream?
A cream that absorbs straight away, leaves no greasy feel and contains no alcohol. If your face starts to shine by midday, choose a light gel cream made for oily skin.
Prebiotic Skin Cream is a light, water-based gel cream. After shaving, it moisturises your skin and helps it recover. It is free from alcohol and parabens.
Sources
- 1.Cowley K, Vanoosthuyze K (2012). Insights into shaving and its impact on skin. British Journal of Dermatology 166 (Suppl. 1): 6-12. Review.
- 2.Lodén M (2003). Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology 4(11): 771-788. Review.
- 3.Ananthapadmanabhan KP, Moore DJ, Subramanyan K, Misra M, Meyer F (2004). Cleansing without compromise: the impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild cleansing. Dermatologic Therapy 17 (Suppl. 1): 16-25. Review.
This article is for general information only. If you have a skin problem that persists or gets worse, see a dermatologist.