HEALTH

It sounds as though you’ve got a case of either razor burn or razor bumps.

If you notice more burning than itching, you may have razor burn. First, make sure that the shaving gel or cream you are using is not irritating your skin. Slather it on a test spot and let it soak in for a few minutes before rinsing. If your skin is red or irritated, stop using it. Next, check to ensure that your razor blade is clean and sharp. Dull and dirty blades can irritate your skin. Replace your blade frequently for the closest, comfiest shave. Still feelin’ the burn? Try soothing irritation with a li’l aloe vera.

If you find that your legs itch more than they burn, you may have some razor bumps. Razor bumps are caused by ingrown hairs, which are hairs that dig back into the skin instead of growing outwards. You can help prevent them by regularly exfoliating your skin in the shower using a body scrub. While multi-blade razors are the most effective for a smooth shave, if you are consistently seeing the bumps, you may want to switch to a single-blade razor, which is more effective at preventing ingrown hairs.  At bedtime, use a moisturizing lotion to reduce itching. You may want to opt for a fragrance-free lotion to avoid any irritation.

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by Kathryn Shofer | 2/1/2016