What should you know about itchy shaving rash?

Small itchy bumps around individual hairs can follow close shaving or ingrown hairs. Burning or redness immediately after a new gel, foam, or aftershave may fit Contact Dermatitis. Sweat and rubbing can aggravate Heat Rash or Intertrigo in folds. Pus-filled bumps, increasing tenderness, or crusting can occur with follicle infection. A rash that spreads beyond shaved skin, forms a ring, or appears away from the shaving area may have another explanation such as Ringworm, Atopic Dermatitis, or Psoriasis.

Stop shaving the area until the skin settles. Rinse gently with lukewarm water, pat dry, and use a plain moisturiser if the skin is dry. Avoid alcohol-based aftershave, fragrance, tight clothing, picking, and abrasive scrubs. When you resume, use clean equipment, shaving gel, light pressure, and strokes that follow hair growth; replace blades when they tug. Do not squeeze bumps or share razors. A clinician can advise whether an anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial treatment is appropriate.

Arrange an assessment if the rash lasts, recurs after each shave, leaves dark marks, or causes repeated ingrown hairs. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, marked pain, pus, fever, blisters, facial swelling, or involvement of the eyes or genitals. Trouble breathing after a product is an emergency.

Ask whether this is razor irritation, Contact Dermatitis, folliculitis, or another condition; whether your shaving method should change; and which product is safe for the affected body area.