Any tips for getting rid of a shaving rash without not shaving?

[Sly Apple Pie]

For a short while now, I've been experiencing a rash on my neck after I shave. The rash is normally red and bubbly, and whilst not always irritating or even particularly noticeable, it's still quite unpleasent. It's almost a permanent fixture on my neck now too because I'm required to shave everyday as part of dress standards at work.

So... Erm... Can anyone give me any advice or whatever? Any particular lotions or potions I can use?

Thanks.

[dor]

Originally Posted by Sly Apple Pie

For a short while now, I've been experiencing a rash on my neck after I shave. The rash is normally red and bubbly, and whilst not always irritating or even particularly noticeable, it's still quite unpleasent. It's almost a permanent fixture on my neck now too because I'm required to shave everyday as part of dress standards at work.

So... Erm... Can anyone give me any advice or whatever? Any particular lotions or potions I can use?

Thanks.

it's called razor burn
Razor burn - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Preventive measures

Ways to prevent razor burn include:

* keeping the face moist using a shaving brush and lather;
* using a moisturising shaving gel;
* shaving in the direction of the hair growth;
* resisting the urge to shave too closely;
* applying minimal pressure;
* avoiding scratching or irritation after shaving;
* avoiding irritating products on the shaved area (colognes, perfumes, etc.);
* using an aftershave cream with aloe vera or other emollients;

[Sly Apple Pie]

Yeah, I do all that unfortunately :/

I think I'm just basically stuck in a vicious circle where I have to shave for work, but I'm gonna need to stop shaving to get rid of the rash... I was hoping there might be some kind of miracle cure out there or something.

[da1prophet]

Originally Posted by Sly Apple Pie

Yeah, I do all that unfortunately :/

I think I'm just basically stuck in a vicious circle where I have to shave for work, but I'm gonna need to stop shaving to get rid of the rash... I was hoping there might be some kind of miracle cure out there or something.

You got to mix in better shaving products then--you may be having an allergic reaction to some of the fragrance in the shaving creme or your aftershave. Make sure your aftershave isn't one of those alcohol based concoctions your dad used. I use this aloe vera based lotion from the Body Shop and its the best thing I've found. As far as shaving creme goes, I've never had a problem with the Clinique shaving creme. Don't skimp on razor blades either--they're expensive as anything, but you need to buy quality blades and change them often.

I'd strongly disagree with the clipping from the previous poster--I've known a bunch of people who tried using a shaving brush to "look cool" only to have it irritate their face. Your better off using your hands to keep your face lubed up.

Try getting away with shaving every other day for awhile, change your shaving products and you should be fine...

[Lucas]

Originally Posted by da1prophet

I'd strongly disagree with the clipping from the previous poster--I've known a bunch of people who tried using a shaving brush to "look cool" only to have it irritate their face. Your better off using your hands to keep your face lubed up.

I completely disagree with that. Changing to a brush and shaving soap was the best thing I ever did for my shaving "experience". I wouldnt count it out just cause you knew some people whose faces got irritated. Mine gets irritated if I use all the chemical ridden stuff...a nice glycerin based shaving soap and proper shaving techniques results in no razor burn for the past 2 years.

[Holistic Star]

My H bought a shaving oil to put on his skin before shaving. I would also recommend switching to an organic range too.

He doesn't shave at weekends to give his skin a rest.

What type of razor do you use?

[da1prophet]

Originally Posted by Lucas

I completely disagree with that. Changing to a brush and shaving soap was the best thing I ever did for my shaving "experience". I wouldnt count it out just cause you knew some people whose faces got irritated. Mine gets irritated if I use all the chemical ridden stuff...a nice glycerin based shaving soap and proper shaving techniques results in no razor burn for the past 2 years.

Of course "your millage may vary" but in this guy's case he clearly needs something a) without irritating chemicals and/or fragrances and b) with as much lubrication as possible. I'd go for a gel/cream which provides more lubrication than soap or foam whether or not its applied with a brush...

[Adam]

I've known several people who would get razor burn fairly frequently, as it was a rather strict requirement to shave daily in the Army... There are a few things that I learned...

1: Keep your razors sharp.
2: Use light strokes, and keep the amount of time shaving to a minimum.
3: Experiment. Gels, creams, and soaps do different things to different people... If one brand is irritating, switch to another one... Try them for two weeks, then if you don't see an improvement, try the next one. There isn't one 'best' brand, so don't be afraid to try the cheap stuff (but don't depend on the cheap stuff either).
4: Electric rotary razors typically give the least irritation, but the shave is typically lower in quality than a non-electric razor. Out of the electric razors, the 'microfoil' razors give the most irritation, but are also the worst at cutting through course stubble, although they work decently on finer stubble.
5: Doctor notes are king. If a doctor tells you to stop shaving, you can wave it in anyone's face. Keep your beard trimmed very close, though, so that it looks like you've only missed a day or two of shaving. Laminate the doctor's note if you have to.
6: Don't be afraid to try the 'no bump' shaving systems. They don't work the best, but it's better than nothing.
7: If you walk out of a store with a bottle of Nair, the cashier will ask you about your girlfriend. I've never seen a guy use this stuff, but if it works on leg hair, it might just work on facial hair.

[Sly Apple Pie]

Thanks for the responses guys and gals.

I've remained pretty much exclusive to Gillette products for most of my adult life, so I guess the first thing is to try another brand. I'm seriously considering asking for a sick note too, even though it seems a tad extreme.

[dor]

Originally Posted by da1prophet

I'd strongly disagree with the clipping from the previous poster--I've known a bunch of people who tried using a shaving brush to "look cool" only to have it irritate their face. Your better off using your hands to keep your face lubed up.
.

I quoted those things from the wiki article because they have worked for me. I have very sensitive, fair skin and a heavy beard so electric isn't an option. I get occasional nicks, but since switching to brush i never get burn.

there are dozens of factors in play - what type of brush - natural bristle or synthentic - one might give you an allergic reaction the other may not.
How long does the user let the hot water soak into the soap and brush. what kind of soap?
Maybe the soap (or even laundry detergent) that used makes the skin overly sensitive...and so on.
Takes a lot of experiementation, I guess.