What Is a Home Remedy to Soothe Razor Burn?

Anyone who has ever shaved and ended up with razor burn knows how painful it can be. Fortunately, a number of home remedies can provide immediate relief from the burning, itching sensation that accompanies razor burn. Most of the remedies use common household products. Check the list below to see which ones might work best for you.

Aspirin

• A paste made by mixing crushed aspirin with water can help relieve the pain of razor burn. Use enough paste to cover the affected area. The aspirin will reduce swelling and numb the area to lessen painful burning sensations. As the aspirin paste dries, it will flake off, so cover the area with gauze secured with medical tape. Reapply as necessary.

Oatmeal

• Oatmeal has long been regarded for its ability to soothe skin conditions. For relief from the burning and itching of razor burn, soak in an oatmeal bath. You can buy a premade oatmeal soak or make your own. Simply blend regular oatmeal in a blender until a powder forms. Add the powdered oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak to reduce swelling and itching.

Benzoyl Peroxide

• Razor burn often produces red, itchy bumps. To help present bumps heal and minimize the change of future outbreaks, apply a topical acne cream with a low concentration of benzoyl peroxide. Usually a 2.5 or 5 percent solution is best; the 10 percent solution can be too drying. If you are prone to getting razor bumps, apply the cream as soon as you are done shaving, while the skin is still wet and the pores are still open for optimal absorption (see References).

Tea

• Sooth a small area of razor burn, such as one along a bikini line, with a tea bag. Brew the tea as you would if you were going to drink a cup of tea, and once the tea bag has cooled, simply lay it on top of the affected area. The tannin in the tea is a natural pain reliever and may also aid in the healing process.

Moisturizers

• Applying moisturizers to razor burn will not speed up the healing process, but will provide temporary relief. Aloe vera gel, tea tree oil and vitamin E oil are all great choices for soothing razor burn (see References). A diaper rash lotion is another effective treatment. Be sure to apply the moisturizers after the skin has been freshly shaved and the pores are open.