We’ve all been there—that stinging, burning, and often itchy irritation after shaving. Guys, let’s talk about how to treat razor burn. Even the most seasoned shavers deal with it, but here’s the good news: It’s not inevitable.
“Razor burn is a common experience for all types of shavers,” says grooming expert and co-founder of Soft Spell Luke Tyson. “It’s a form of skin irritation that occurs after shaving, often causing redness, itching, and discomfort. It happens when the razor blade damages the outer layer of the skin, leading to inflammation.”
Razor burn is often the result of poor technique, dull blades, or the wrong products, but with a few simple tweaks, you can keep it at bay. You might not be able to banish the burn every time, but you can make your shave routine as smooth and soothing as possible. Here’s how.
How to Treat and Prevent Razor Burn
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The Best Razors to Avoid Razor Burn
If you’re still using a disposable razor, it’s time to upgrade. Cartridge razors remain a go-to for many guys—including me—but opt for one with a skin guard or lubricating strip to minimize friction. If razor burn is a constant struggle, a safety razor is worth considering. Not only do they look damn cool, but they’re also designed for a smoother shave. “Single-edge safety razors use a single, ultra-sharp blade to deliver a close and comfortable shave, minimizing irritation and razor burn,” says Tyson.
For an even gentler approach, an electric shaver might be the way to go. “It won’t give you an ultra-close shave, but it’s great for minimizing skin sensitivity,” Tyson says. No matter your preference, he advises, “Pick a razor with long-lasting blades that work for you.” Quality matters, too, especially with safety razors. “Look for Japanese or German steel,” he suggests. Many even offer adjustable shave settings, letting you tailor the experience from mild to aggressive based on your skin’s needs. “Even better, some brands have online quizzes to match you with the best razor based on your hair and skin type.”
The Best Shave Creams & Gels to Avoid Razor Burn
The right shaving cream or gel is equally as important if you are experiencing consistent razor burn. “Look for formulas with aloe vera, glycerin, coconut oil, or shea butter to keep skin hydrated,” Tyson says. Anything with alcohol or fragrance in it should be a no go because that’s just asking for skin irritation. Whether you like a super-foamy cream or a slick gel, we have a few shaving lubricants that can make the difference in the fight against razor burn.
The Best Post-Shave Balms & Serums to Avoid Razor Burn
“A quality shave balm or serum for razor bumps and burn should calm and soothe just-shaved skin,” Tyson says. Look for formulas with aloe vera, natural extracts, oils, and vitamin E. “These ingredients instantly hydrate to relieve irritation while gently exfoliating to reduce the appearance of ingrown hairs. Over time, they also help create more resilient skin.”
The Best Aftershave Lotions to Avoid Razor Burn
Many traditional aftershaves contain alcohol—the same type found in hospital-grade hand sanitizers. “Sure, it kills bacteria,” Tyson notes, “but it stings like salt in a wound and isn’t great for your skin long-term.” Instead, opt for alcohol- and fragrance-free formula, which are antibacterial but more nourishing. “Think of it as juice for your skin—it soothes irritation, boosts cell repair, and keeps you hydrated.” Beyond calming, aftershave lotion can also help with redness and discomfort from sun exposure.
The Best Moisturizers & Oils to Avoid Razor Burn
After shaving, keeping your skin hydrated is key. “A specifically formulated post-shave moisturizer can soothe and balance the skin while reducing post-shave irritation,” Tyson explains. These are especially great for combination and sensitive skin types, offering soothing benefits without feeling too heavy.
The Best Toners to Avoid Razor Burn
A good toner does more than just refresh—it restores balance, soothes razor burn, and helps combat post-shave fatigue. “A skin toner will energize and soothe post-shave skin while visibly reducing signs of fatigue,” he says. “It’s a great final step to keep your skin feeling revitalized.”
What Causes Razor Burn?
Shaving too quickly or with too much pressure
Shaving used to be a ritual, not a race, but that changed in the 1970s when disposable razors became popular. “Mass-market razors promised a quicker, easier shave by reducing blade exposure and increasing guard size,” Tyson explains. The downside? “Guys started shaving faster and pressing harder, thinking they were safe from nicks. But those habits only worsened things, leading to razor burn, redness, inflammation, and ingrown hairs.” Lately, though, there’s been a shift toward higher-end cartridges and modern safety razors, designed to deliver a smoother, more comfortable shave- without the rushed, heavy-handed approach.
Using a dull or old blade
“We’ve all been guilty of this one,” Tyson admits. “Life gets busy, and before you know it, you’re still using a blade past its prime.” Razor blades don’t dull evenly-one part might stay sharp while another scrapes across your skin, leading to tugging, pulling, and an increased risk of razor burn. “Change your blade regularly to keep it sharp,” Tyson advises. Besides delivering an uneven shave, an old razor can become a breeding ground for bacteria, worsening irritation. “Always keep blades clean to prevent buildup, which can lead to breakouts.” If razor burn keeps showing up, it’s probably time for a fresh blade—and swap them out more often to keep your skin healthy.
Shaving isn’t just about the blade, it’s about design, too. “As razor designers, we think a lot about blade geometries,” Tyson says. “The angles between the blade, razor head, and skin determine how close, comfortable, and safe your shave is.” If you have fine beard hair or sensitive skin, a razor with mild blade exposure is your best bet. But if your beard is coarse and dense, you’ll likely need something more aggressive with greater blade exposure. “It’s worth experimenting with different models to find the best fit for your skin and hair type,” he adds.
How to Prevent Razor Burn
Proper prep is just as crucial as the razor itself. “Think of your skin like a muscle- you wouldn’t work out without stretching first,” Tyson explains. “The same logic applies to shaving. “Start by washing your face with warm water to open pores and soften hair follicles, making for a smoother, more comfortable shave.” From there, a quality shaving cream or gel is key. “Opt for a gentle foaming gel or a concentrated shave cream with clean ingredients,” he suggests. Whether you lather up with a brush or your fingers, treat this as a self-care ritual that makes shaving something to look forward to.
Use proper shaving technique
Technique is key. “Whether you’re using a cartridge or safety razor, the fundamentals stay the same,” says Tyson. “Press the razor gently against your cheek at a 5- to 10-degree angle and use short, controlled strokes in the direction of hair growth.” Avoid applying too much pressure—let the weight of the handle and the sharpness of the blade do the work. “It might feel counterintuitive if you’re used to shaving against the grain, but gradual hair removal with multiple passes helps prevent razor burn. You’ll still get a close shave – just without the irritation.”
About the Expert
Luke Tyson is a men’s grooming expert and co-founder of Soft Spell, an award-winning industrial design studio with offices in Los Angeles and Brooklyn. Partnering with early to mid-stage brands to create innovative, bespoke products, the studio is named on over 50 patents and has been recognized by IF Design Awards and IDSA Design Awards. With a focus on personal care and shaving tools, their work has also been featured in Time’s Best Inventions 2024, Cosmopolitan, Gear Patrol, Men’s Health, and GQ.
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