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Whether it's the constant itch, unsightly bumps, redness, or a combination of all three, razor burn after shaving can be an incredibly frustrating condition.
Fortunately, skincare professionals have assured us that it’s possible to avoid irritation while still removing unwanted hair. The key is using proper shaving techniques and following up with the right aftercare products—more on that shortly. Dr. Navin S. Arora, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Borealis Dermatology in Garden City and Syosset, New York, explained that razor burn is caused by friction between the blade and skin during shaving. He advised that using an old or dull razor increases the risk, as it can pull the hair instead of cutting it cleanly. Poor shaving practices—like pressing too hard, shaving against the hair growth, or skipping shaving gels and creams—also contribute to razor burn. In addition to discomfort, if untreated, razor burn can lead to infection and, in more severe cases, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Even if you’re doing everything right during shaving, irritation can still occur. Arora and other experts shared their top recommendations for products and ingredients to include in your skincare routine, whether you're shaving your bikini line, face, or underarms.
1. An alcohol-free witch hazel toner
Dr. Navin S. Arora, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, explained that witch hazel is a natural astringent with anti-inflammatory benefits that can help reduce skin irritation and redness caused by razor burn. We recommend this alcohol-free witch hazel toner from Thayers, which is designed to maintain the skin's moisture balance. It also includes aloe vera, another ingredient favored by Arora, which can soothe, hydrate, and smooth razor-burned skin.
2. A soothing colloidal oatmeal gel cream
3. A salicylic acid post-shave roll-on
Kristin Gunn, a medical aesthetician at Beaux Medical Spa in Austin, Texas, recommends salicylic acid for treating razor bumps. For those dealing with stubborn irritation, especially in sensitive areas like the underarms or bikini line, this post-shave roll-on from Megababe is a great option. The formula not only contains salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate dead skin cells that can cause ingrown hairs, but also includes glycerin to hydrate and soften the skin, along with witch hazel for its soothing benefits.
4. An aloe-infused hydrocortisone cream
Arora and Hartman both recommended using a hydrocortisone cream, ideally with a 1% concentration. "Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help relieve itching and inflammation caused by razor burn," Arora explained. "Be sure to follow usage instructions, as prolonged use may have side effects." We found this highly rated, maximum strength cream, which promises lasting relief from itching and irritation. It also features aloe vera, a soothing ingredient frequently recommended for skin care.
5. A benzoyl peroxide cream cleanser
Gunn referred to the combination of corticosteroids (like the cream mentioned above) and benzoyl peroxide as a "superhero" duo for treating post-shave irritation. She noted that benzoyl peroxide helps reduce inflammation and target bacteria to heal current razor burn while preventing future flare-ups. Among many benzoyl peroxide products, we chose this cream-based cleanser designed for facial use. In addition to 5% benzoyl peroxide, it contains a special amino sugar that supports healthy skin and removes impurities without causing excessive dryness or irritation.
6. A CeraVe Skin Barrier-Restoring Cream
"Look for a body lotion with hydrating ingredients, like ceramides," advised Hartman. "CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is versatile and fragrance-free, making it perfect for soothing razor burn." Endorsed by dermatologists, this rich cream combines hyaluronic acid with three essential ceramides to restore the skin's natural barrier, often compromised by razor burn. I've used this product for years, and it consistently hydrates my skin and combats irritation, especially on my legs and bikini area.
7. A 100% aloe vera gel
8. A rich therapeutic cream by La Roche-Posay
Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, recommended La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm, a therapeutic cream that helps relieve dryness and irritation anywhere on the body. "This cream is designed to soothe and calm the skin, while its ingredients like shea butter and panthenol soften and smooth. It also uses glycerin to attract moisture," said Garshick. "Madecassoside, derived from the Centella Asiatica plant, promotes healing and further calms the skin."
9. A classic skin-protecting jelly
Garshick also recommended Vaseline, the timeless skin protectant with a wide range of beauty applications, from slugging to lip care. "Containing 100% pure petrolatum, it forms a protective barrier to shield the skin from further irritation, while allowing it to heal," Garshick explained, adding that it can be applied as needed.
