There are a number of ways to treat razor burn on your legs, some of which treat the skin irritation after it has occurred and some that help to prevent it. It is important to remember that razor burn is essentially a kind of rash that appears as a result of removing a top layer of the skin and causing the area to become chafed. To treat this, you can use a skin care product that includes hydrocortisone or make sure to moisturize the legs directly after shaving. Preventative treatments for razor burn on legs include using new razors with each shave, shaving at the end of a shower or bath, using a shaving cream that is formulated for sensitive or dry skin, or avoiding shaving altogether by switching to a waxing regimen. Another preventative method is to use an electric razor.
Using a topical treatment, such as lotion with or without hydrocortisone, helps to soothe the skin, replenish moisture that was stripped from it during the shaving process, and reduce the appearance and sensation of razor burn. Hydrocortisone can help to reduce the redness of razor burn and also reduce the stinging sensation that is associated with the condition. In most cases, a topical solution containing just 1% hydrocortisone will do the trick. Those who prefer to use lotion without this ingredient should look for a lotion that includes aloe or chamomile, which can offer extra soothing benefits.
One of the main reasons that people experience razor burn on the legs has to do with the type of the razor that they use. If the razor has been used multiple times already, it may be quite dull, which can worsen razor burn. Be sure to use a fresh razor every time. You may also want to try a few different brands and see if one seems to yield less discomfort than the other.
Shaving after allowing the skin to become soft and hydrated in the bath or shower will also reduce razor burn. This means that shaving at the end of the shower or bath can help to reduce the problem. You may also want to use a shaving cream or shaving oil instead of soap. These sorts of products will do a better job of lubricating the skin prior to shaving, which will help to reduce damage to the skin on the legs.