How to Prevent Pimples After Shaving in 5 Easy Steps

Razor burn and ingrown hairs are two shaving-related skin concerns that are mentioned a lot, but they aren’t the only common side effects of hair removal. Red, angry breakouts are another potential downfall of shaving. Here’s how to treat and prevent those post-shave bumps. 

Why Does Shaving Cause Breakouts?

Before we get into a full post-shave pimple prevention plan, it’s important to understand why pimples appear after shaving in the first place. The main reason has to do with inflammation. When you run a razor over your skin, even gently, you are increasing the risk of skin trauma and irritation. This irritation can appear as slight redness or swelling and subside after a few hours, but if you follow an improper shaving technique, you may experience red bumps as well. Shaving in the wrong direction, shaving without adequate lubrication (or dry shaving), using old or dull razors or using dirty razors are all possible culprits. 

So how can you prevent breaking out after shaving? It's easier than you think. Read on for five easy steps to follow the next time you shave. 

Exfoliate Your Skin  

Sloughing off dead skin cells is key for a smooth, close shave. It can also help remove any debris or bacteria clogging the pores or left on the surface of the skin after cleansing. The Kiehl’s Gently Exfoliating Body Scrub is a great choice for polishing away dead skin cells and prepping your skin before shaving. 

Use a Clean Razor

It’s not uncommon for dead skin cells, dirt and impurities to get trapped in your razor. Rinsing off your razor with each pass is helpful while shaving, but it won’t necessarily remove all traces of dirt. Not only can this buildup dull your razor’s blade over time, but it can promote bacteria growth and post-shave pimples. Before and after shaving, rinse your razor with warm water and wipe it down with an antibacterial wipe or spray. Also, avoid using the same razor for more than one week.

Apply Shaving Cream

Shaving cream helps the razor glide effortlessly over the skin, thus reducing the risk of nicks, cuts and irritation. Less irritation means less of a chance for acne blemishes to form. Try Billie The Shave Cream, an alcohol-free option that calms and hydrates skin with aloe and shea butter.

Shave With Care

Try to shave at the end of a shower or bath. Exposing your skin and hair to lukewarm water can help soften it and reduce friction from shaving. To shave, go against hair growth by starting at your ankles and moving upwards. If possible, avoid going over the same areas of skin more than once.

Moisturize After Shaving

Once you’re finished shaving, hydrate your skin with a moisturizer or aftershave. This is one of the most vital steps for preventing bumps. We like to use the CeraVe SA Lotion for Rough & Bumpy Skin because it contains a non-irritating dose of salicylic acid to target and prevent bumps and breakouts, in addition to soothing and hydrating ingredients. If your skin is prone to irritation, steer clear of formulas with alcohol, parabens or fragrance. If you’re shaving your face, reach for a facial aftershave product that’s soothing and refreshing, such as the Vichy Homme After Shave.

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

Read More: 

Tips to Help Prevent Razor Burn — Even on Dry Skin

7 Tricks to Help You Shave Less Often

6 Times You Should Always Apply Body Lotion