If you have ever shaved any part of your body, you already know how painful razor burns can be. It occurs due to following improper shaving techniques or using blunt blades. Whatever the reason is, it also brings bumps, blisters, and rashes to your skin.
The best possible way to deal with this is to use natural and effective essential oils to soothe the skin. But not all essential oils are as effective, or as good. At times, it becomes quite challenging to choose the right one as there are so many options available in the market.
We have made the job easier for you by creating a shortlist. If you want to get rid of the annoyance caused by razor burn, then you can consider any of the following essential oils!
1. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender Oil is the most popular essential oil out there. The versatile use of the lavender plant is very well-known across the globe. It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, astringent, moisturizing, and cleansing properties. [1]
Razor burns and bumps mainly occur due to rough shaves. Apply the lavender essential oil immediately after the shave. Use a few drops in your palm and rub the oil on the freshly shaved area.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree essential oil is one of the best natural antiseptics, having antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.
For preventing infections that make razor burns worse, tea tree oil’s natural drying effect is beneficial. It will comfort your skin as well if applied immediately after the shave.
Don’t use undiluted tea tree oil because it is powerful. It works best alongside other essential oils or carrier oils.
3. Frankincense Oil
Frankincense oil reduces the pain caused by razor bumps or burns, almost immediately. Being rich in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, this essential oil is perfect for those who have sensitive skin. [2]
Frankincense oil is a bit more expensive compared to the other available options, but the cost is justified. You can directly use it on your skin without having to dilute it with anything else.
4. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint contains very high amounts of menthol content, providing a cooling relief to razor bump and burn. It helps a lot to control the pain and gives comfort to the burnt area. The best way to use peppermint essential oil is to mix a few drops of it with filtered water.
Though you can rub the oil on your skin, it is preferred to contain the mix in a spray bottle and spray over the shaved area of the skin.
5. Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile has different variants for you to choose from, but the best version for razor burn would be German Chamomile. It is not even too firm, so you can apply it regardless of having irritated skin. [3]
Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties would make sure your skin doesn’t suffer from long-term damage due to razor burn.
You may use chamomile essential oil independently, but mixing it with lavender oil enhances its effectiveness.
6. Geranium Oil
Due to its cleansing and balancing effect on the skin, geranium essential oil takes excellent care of dull and dehydrated skin. Also, aggravated skin can be soothed with a few drops of geranium oil.
For razor burns, create a mixture of geranium oil avocado oil before applying the solution.
Before You Apply Essential Oil
Just applying essential oil on your skin doesn’t guarantee your skin’s safety. There are a few things you should do before and during the shave.
- Don’t forget to exfoliate before starting to shave your skin. You can purchase exfoliating scrubs from stores, or even make your own by combining lavender, olive oil, and sugar.
- Most of the razor burns are caused because of using dull razors. Make sure the razor you are using is sharp and shiny. Purchase razors from renowned brands for getting the best quality.
- Don’t apply the razor on dry skin by any means. Wash your face before starting to shave so that the skin gets softened and dead cells are removed. This way, it becomes a lot easier to shave the skin without causing a razor burn.
- Pure essential oils might cause a severe allergic reaction. Instead of directly applying any of those, dilute them with a carrier oil. [4]
