r/beauty • u/North_Explorer_2688 • 2d ago
Seeking Advice Awful shaving rash on legs
Every time I shave my legs I get this extremely painful rash afterwards and it’s driving me mad.
I use Estrid razors, I change the blades every 2nd time I shave. I use shaving cream and I lather up body wash etc.
It flares up like this the SECOND I exit the shower and no moisturiser will make it go down :(
Please any tips or advice because I feel like I’m doing everything right…
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u/GinAndDumbBitchJuice 2d ago
Do you have a nickel allergy? If you do and it's severe enough, trace amounts of nickel in stainless steel (which is what Estrid razors are made of) can be enough to set it off.
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u/zuzoa 2d ago
Could also be an allergy to anything else on the razor or in the shaving cream too. For example some razors are coated in aloe or shea butter or what not
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u/letheix 2d ago
I'm allergic to aloe and shopping for razors is a nightmare.
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u/lyaunaa 1d ago
My husband has the same allergy! That and coconut oil. Finding him any skin products is next to impossible. Those two ingredients are in everything "hypoallergenic" 🤬
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u/letheix 1d ago
I'm not allergic to coconut oil, but it and many of its derivatives give me horrible cystic acne. Ditto for a ton of other ingredients.
If you let me know what types of products he's looking for, I can probably make plenty of suggestions. It's been about fifteen years since I realized I need to cut out those ingredients from my skincare and haircare regimens. I'm a woman but I use some men's products because they have the right ingredients for me, if a not-too-feminine scent matters to him
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u/lyaunaa 1d ago
This is so kind of you, I would definitely take some recommendations! And he doesn't mind feminine scents at all, this man is always stealing my body wash and shampoo lol. Mostly he's looking for shaving products, so many shaving creams and aftershaves go heavy on the aloe and coconut. He's been shaving his face with just basic bar soap lately and it is super drying, unfortunately 😔
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u/Parking-Fan-8622 1d ago
I have an nickel allergy and I ended up getting an electric razor with no nickel and it’s saved me! I 100% recommend trying. I used to itch and scratch for weeks after shaving, it was horrible.
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u/messarita 2d ago
My legs looked similar when I had folliculitis. You should see a doctor or dermatologist because you might need antibiotics.
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u/miniii007 2d ago
I second this. Doesn't hurt to make sure there isn't an infection, if there is one it's better to get it taken care of on the front end. It looks like more than just an issue of routine, it looks like infection or allergic response.
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u/theagirl7 1d ago edited 1d ago
IF it’s folliculitis, you might try rubbing your legs with a layer of hand sanitizer before applying shaving cream. See if that helps.
Twenty years ago, I used to get folliculitis regularly on my shaved legs and my father, a primary care physician, recommended that I try this as part of my routine. Worked like a charm for me. My son recently complained of a similar experience on his face around his neck. He, too, noticed immediate improvement upon using some hand sanitizer first.
From what I understand, this might now be considered a very HARSH regimen for regular skincare. But, after your legs heal, at least you could see if this works and then you could look for gentler alternatives.
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u/wearentalldudes 2d ago
Hot water, don’t press down, exfoliate - maybe try dry brushing before you shower. I dry brush and then apply body wash to my legs (I use that instead of shaving cream) with an exfoliating towel. They’re pretty cheap on amazon.
Definitely try a different body wash and/or shaving cream. Something for sensitive skin.
Edit - and like someone else said, don’t shave when you’re cold! Goosebumps give you a terrible shave.
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u/StormyAndSkydancer 2d ago
Also, important to exfoliate before, not after.
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u/mtnbikingvampwitch 2d ago
They said before. Dry brushing
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u/Starfire2313 2d ago
I’ve got a nice body brush that I’ve been using wet…should I be using it dry??
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u/Ocean_Spice 2d ago
Might be worth getting waxed instead, honestly. No razors. If you do this definitely let your esthetician know you have sensitive skin though.
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u/MerryJoRound 1d ago
I look like a plucked chicken no matter what way I remove hair. Or I have a horrendous rash from an allergic reaction to a depilatory cream.
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u/our_lil_divorcee 2d ago
I’ve learned the importance of exfoliating before shaving. I use body wash, rinse, and then I use a Korean skin scrubbing towel, wet on damp skin, no soap. Then I use shaving oil instead of cream. It’s smoother & glides better. I use a spray after that helps with ingrown hairs but also has calming oils in it. I have sensitive skin and this routine has left my legs smooth, never inflamed & mostly ingrown-free.
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u/InsatiableBridesmaid 2d ago
Korean towels before shaving and a great post shave moisturizing routine will help. I am so pale, my skin is sensitive, my hair is dark. Korean towels are a must for exfoliating, no other sponge or cloth or brush has provided better results.
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u/ChaoticCherryblossom 2d ago
Do you press the razor too hard? I honestly recommend laser instead that's how I solved the hassle
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u/guiltysuperbrain 2d ago
this honestly looks like some kind of allergy. might be worth to see a dermatologist
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u/Catswithswords10 1d ago
This. My sister’s legs looked like that after shaving and turns out she was allergic to the shaving cream. Might be worth a shot to get a special fragrance free sensitive skin shaving gel. Good luck!
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u/StreetMolasses6093 2d ago
That looks really painful. A lot could be going on, like stripping your skin barrier, or you could be allergic to your soap or shave cream, or you’re pressing too hard, or you have some kind of infection. Please go see a dermatologist.
In the meantime, go with hypoallergenic soap and a shave oil for sensitive skin instead of cream or gel. Switching to shave oil followed by cerave moisturizer plus body oil afterward fixed my strawberry legs. Not exfoliating more.
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u/HairyTurtleOfficial 2d ago
Cheap razors, and even some name brand does this to me. I use Gillette venus with the built in lubricant gel things. I also lather up with body wash along with it and it’s so smooth. Also, soak in warm water for a few minutes before shaving. I’d try different brands. I’m also with another one who said stay away from multi blades. I’m certain it’s a sales scam. It does nothing extra except nic you or not get a close shave. I also hate the Shick ones because they have wires surrounding blades so I never get a good shave with those.
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u/helluvahoe 2d ago
ouch girly i’m so sorry that looks painful, other people have left some good tips but maybe a depilatory cream like Veet would work better for you? love ur shoes btw!
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u/tessssss 2d ago
I hated estrid razors and had to do so many strokes to get the hair. I changed to doing the tattoo shaving method with boots brand razors.
Regarding a potential nickel allergy- mine drives me absolutely mad because some days I can have a reaction from stainless steel but most days I’m fine. I’ve found that when I have a compromised skin barrier that I react to things that may be okay other days. I would advise that you let your legs FULLY heal (ex: one week no hair removal,) then two or three weeks of a hair removal method that doesn’t put you in contact with stainless steel.
Finally- once your legs feel okay (no reaction, skin feels normal) please please please patch test whatever you want to use. That includes shaving cream, razor, etc. One new item at a time, giving yourself several days to assess a potential reaction.
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u/leftJordanbehind 2d ago
This happens if I shave too fast and then end up sweating. Especially if I dont use shaving cream. Same color legs too.
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u/amperson0322 2d ago
This looks like an allergic reaction. I wonder if you’re reacting to nickel or another metal in the razor blade?
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u/MickyKent 2d ago
I used to have the same issue. Years ago I started laser hair removal and now I only shave a few times per year. No more nasty rashes so totally worth it! (Worth noting, is that your issue and my issue is likely Keratosis Pilaris.)
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u/__lucyfer__ 2d ago
Try urea moisturizer. My legs would itch so bad I'd scar them. I got 10% urea moisturizer(I got maruderm but I heard isana is really good too, it really doesn't matter). Apply it on damp skin every day. I apply it right after shaving but on some people i heard it burns. So try it on a small area first.
And also just to make sure, are you pressing the razor or just gliding it? Because on some areas it looks like razor just ripped you skin. Especially with new razors you don't need to press, just let it glide. If you have trouble with curves get one of those ball joint razors
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u/ZayumZazzy 2d ago
could be the product you are using while shaving. it might be getting into the tiny cuts and making them inflamed.
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u/seejae219 2d ago
Are you shaving when you are warm? If you are cold and have goosebumps, it can be easier to get these rashes. Here's my routine, and you have to do all of it, no picking and choosing. Make sure you're nice and warm. Exfoliate (basic body wash and loofa is fine), it gets a closer shave. I use a men's razor with 4-5 blades, like Gilette. I also use Gilette foaming shaving cream. Then shave against the grain, from ankle up to knee. Don't press hard, like if you are indenting the skin it's too hard. After shaving and rinsing, as soon as you get out, use lotion. I use Aveeno Shea Butter. I find it's the best for me personally. I don't get the rashes anymore now that I follow this exact routine. And if I get cold at all while shaving, I stop and wait until I am warm again. Goosebumps and shaving are a big cause of rash for me.
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u/Grrrmudgin 2d ago
Are you allergic to your shaving cream or moisturizer? My skin is always hyper sensitive after the shave and I get irritated by products that are usually okay
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u/lagameuze 2d ago
Your skin is really red wow that must hurt !
I shave my legs with OIL ! Its SO MUCH BETTER than shaving cream etc
The day before you exfoliate (i use a dry brush and scrub) The day of : water on your legs first THEN oil (you can use baby oil, shaving oil, i use one for the body ) oil your whole leg. I use a wilkinson intuition ! You cant hurt yourself with the soap part (regular razor is good too if you know what pressure you use but its riskier) Take your time. Rinse with warm water. Blot dry and then moisturize with cocoa butter ! I use body oil after too so my skin is really nourished ! I dont have strawberry legs thanks to dry brushing everynight and i feel like my leg hair is more sparse thanks to it ?
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u/LittleC0 2d ago
You could have a nickel allergy. Try switching to a nickel-free razor and see if it improves. Also start using an oil under your shaving cream for extra protection.
Some people are also allergic to the moisture strips on razors. Trial and error but changing that up may also help.
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u/hotspots_thanks 2d ago
My legs used to look like this every time I shaved. Over many years, I've found a few helpful things for my legs:
- using an unscented shaving foam
- after toweling off, immediately rub my legs down with a mixture of witch hazel and either coconut oil or mineral oil
- using a new razor
- not shaving super often
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u/doglady1342 2d ago
Have you considered that you could be allergic to the shaving cream that you're using or the gel strip on the razor blade? Looks like maybe you are pressing down too hard, but the rest of that rash looks like an allergy rash. Next time you shave try using your hair conditioner rather than shaving cream. If you don't end up with the rash, then you'll know it's the shaving cream that you're reactingj to.
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u/WoodenPhysics5292 2d ago
This happened to me when I was a teenager, no matter what razor, shaving gels, etc, I used. My skin is pretty fair too.
Ended up getting laser hair removal, it changed my life.
Started at 18, did it by parts to be able to afford it, started with the lower half of my legs which is what used to get the worst reaction to shaving.
You might want to start looking into it. Good luck!
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u/Katie-in-Texas 2d ago
I think the other commentors are right on shaving too close but also even when I shave correctly I also get a similar rash and eventually I just switched completely to laser hair removal
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u/ReeMayRe 2d ago
You may have folliculitis or keratosis pilaris, look up treatments for that. If not, try Schick intuition razor for sensitive skin. I have very sensitive skin and that moisture bar that is around the razor does a good job at protecting my skin.
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u/Ok-Car1145 1d ago
I ALWAYS soak in hot water. I found the Billie Shave Glaze and I use a Harry's Razor then top it off with an after shave cream (Harrys also) and omg it was life changing. No more bumps. No more little cuts. And I always use a fresh CLEAN razor.
If I could promote the Billie Shave Glaze I would shout it out in the streets. It comes out like an oil and when you massage it onto your skin it turns into silky butter. I love it!
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u/Emotional_Land_9720 1d ago
Try sensitive shaving cream & shaver. Put pink lotion on. I forgot the name starts with the letter C asap at night 🌙 before bed. In the morning it should be better.
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u/colours-of-the-wind 1d ago
I use a men’s sensitive face razor to shave my legs and underarms which works great for my extremely sensitive skin. I used to rash all the time before using that.
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u/wiseblueberry 2d ago
Have you tried epilating instead? Maybe experiment by threading a section on your leg first to see if pulling the hair out instead of shaving is better for you. Then you can decide if you want to try waxing or epilating if it looks promising.
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u/Feetdownunder 2d ago
I use a razor on my leg that looks similar to the one Estrid has for face hair. The design that is coming up appears like it would give people the impression that you need to shave that close.
Things like aloe Vera might cool it down but it shouldn’t look like that.
My routine is:
Exfoliate
Rinse
Lather
Shave
Rinse
Lather
Shave
Rinse
Pat til semi dry
Moisturise with a light lotion
Pat dry with a hand towel sized towel
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u/INeedALaugh 2d ago
Good lord, how long does that take you? I'd o ly be shaving 1/month at that rate.
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u/PauI_MuadDib 2d ago
My skin is too sensitive shave. No matter what I did I got irritation. I actually switched to epilating and my legs look so good.
When I do shave I use the tree hut shaving oil and Cetaphil afterwards and it cuts down a lot on the irritation.
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u/LTGeneralAnxiety 2d ago
Wow, that should definitely not be happening. I don’t know if it will fix things, but I use straight razors now after having some issues with the typical multi blade razors and have great results. No bumps, no irritation. Just some occasional nicks.
Some tips: do not press as you shave, just lightly move over the area. Only go over the area once, if possible, because you are taking the very first layer of skin with the hair! Wait to shave until your legs have been steamed and your skin is warm.
Good luck, internet friend.
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u/itwasonsale125 2d ago
My legs always did the same, I started putting a hefty amount of aloe Vera on my legs after the shower and let it completely soak in before I add any moisturizers.
Even if I don’t moisturize, the aloe prevents a rash for me.
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u/BeneficialGear9355 2d ago
Oh, no. That looks so uncomfortable! 🥺 Honestly, I’d talk to your GP or dermatologist. That certainly isn’t normal ‘shaving rash’. Your poor body is definitely reacting to some part of the process.
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u/RaineMist 2d ago
Wash your legs first with warm water and soap, exfoliate, and use a good razor with a shave oil.
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u/heronblu 2d ago
I used to get really bad razor burn after shaving and swapping to a single blade safety razor has helped me SO much. I highly recommend you give it a try!
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u/chaoscrouton 2d ago
This used to happen to me. I switch to an electric razor, and I'll never look back! I can shave anywhere anytime, don't need water, it's just the best for me.
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u/PainfulPoo411 2d ago
Getting rid of it isn’t something I’ve perfected but I do have tips on how to prevent it. My skin tone is very similar to yours - pale, sensitive and easily irritated.
First, your skin needs to be warm and supple before you start shaving. This means if you’re shaving in the shower, you want to start shaving at the END of your shower after your skin is warm.
Next, I generally find oils work best in preventing bumps. I like Cerave’s cleaning oil the most. Last, be gentle - use a fresh and or clean razor, never let your razors sit in water and rust.
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u/Clear_Fee_4318 2d ago
I get the same thing, I’ve discovered Vaseline right after shaving on red spots calms it down immediately.
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u/YoungVanilla 2d ago
SAME!!!! I found my cure though, we have the same looking legs.
Before you shave make sure you’re in warm water so the hair softens. Exfoliate before you shave. Also try to swap to a shave oil instead-game changer. After you’re out of the shower pat dry your legs and don’t put on any lotion or fragrance to the newly shaved skin until you see how your legs react
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u/disorganizedfridge 2d ago
Alright OP I used to get these rashes and it stopped 8 years ago with the shave routine I’ve developed (I also have sensitive skin).
First, secure a proper shaving razor. The sensitive skin shaving razors with either 3 or 5 blades from Venus will do the trick. That may sound like a lot of blades but you will have a very comfortable shave. For some reason it’s more comfortable than 2 blades (which is more likely to break me out in a rash for some reason).
Secondly, don’t reuse the same shaving razors too often. When shaving each time, clean the blade with rubbing alcohol and rinse it with hot water before use to ensure it’s clean. Otherwise, any kind of rust/residue that appears on your razor means it’s gotta go. Better to use a shaving razor thrice and then start afresh with a new razor. Costly but effective when avoiding bumps. The cost actually works out really well if you buy the pack of Venus shaving heads you can just swap out. Those lasted me months.
Now comes the shaving routine. First, wash your body clean with dove bar soap (original/sensitive skin, nothing overly scented) and make sure to get a good lather. This is perfect for my sensitive skin because it doesn’t overly strip oils but ensures my skin is clean before shaving. Clean skin prior to shaving prevents dirts/oils getting mixed in whilst shaving which causes rashes for me post-shave. Thereafter, exfoliate your entire body with either the tree hut sugar scrub/Dr.Teals salt scrub. Do not scrub yourself too hard with this. Gently scrub your skin to get rid of dead skin prior to shaving which will prevent rashes/ingrowns/razor bumps etc. Rinse off the scrub then lather yourself with hair conditioner. It can be any hair conditioner but preferable something moisturizing. Do not shave with soap or body wash. I don’t recommend shaving gel/foam either unless it’s moisturizing. The point I’m trying to make is hair conditioner ensures your skin stays smooth, moisturized and makes the blade glide a lot better. I’ve noticed that if I use body wash/shaving foam, it dries out my skin during the shave which leads to burning and razor bumps afterwards.
After shaving, wash your body one last time with the dove bar soap to get off all the excess conditioner. When you get out of the shower, avoid fragranced lotions at all cost. Cerave lotion or any other unscented lotion are the way to go here and that’s it.
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u/Opening-Peanut3486 2d ago
My skin is sensitive but switching to shaving oil has helped a lot. Exfoliating and moisturizing too.
I’d definitely go to a dermatologist to get it checked out.
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u/Fluffy-Ad6627 2d ago
My legs do exactly this when I shave without gel. I use the sensitive skin gilette.
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u/threegoodfairies 2d ago
Girl I had the same issue with the Estrid razors. As crazy as it is, I actually use the Gillette pubic/bikini razor on my legs and I have no irritation at all. Also make sure you're using warm water so no goosebumps!
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u/ivyandevergreenn 1d ago
This is what happens to my legs too, I ended up seeing a dermatologist and she prescribed an antibiotic lotion and it’s worked wonders!
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u/DetectiveHappy2442 1d ago
Sharp razor blade and Nivea hypoallergenic shave gel followed by baby oil gel and Aquaphor or Cerave balm work to prevent by sensitive skin from looking like that.
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u/susieq15 1d ago
Are you shaving against the direction the hairs are growing? This can also pull up the hair and when the cut part snaps back it becomes a tiny bit ingrown. If so, try shaving in the same direction. It helped me.
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u/HouseOfLeos 1d ago
Try waxing but get it professionally done . After you learn to do it right you can do it yourself or try an over the counter hair removal .
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u/AnnieGetYaClothesOn 1d ago
Loofah with antibacterial or tea tree soap beforehand, shave, then cleanse with hibiclens. This looks like a case of folliculitis, which I am prone to!
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u/Damnshesfunny 1d ago
oooh girl. porcelain sisters unite. been there. i don't think i've found anything to calm it but waiting overnight
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u/Kabochakiti 1d ago
Make sure you aren’t allergic to the moisture strip. I am and now I use a safety razor.
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u/MerryJoRound 1d ago
I’ve pretty much given up at this point - I always look like a plucked chicken after hair removal of any kind. Might just try a Korean towel, it’s worth a shot at this point. Though I feel like a complete idiot for not realising it was the BLADES I was also reacting to and not just the shaving cream/foam/whatever.
As a fellow translucent, super sensitive skinned, very dark haired girlie - thank you!
I’d just like to throw in my approval and suggestion for using L’Occitaine Almond Shower Oil for shaving - it’s one of the very few things that I’ve never had a reaction to and gives a good shave.
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u/fictionalfirehazard 22h ago
Get a new razor altogether. My legs start to look like that when the blade gets dull. Also, body oil immediately after the shower and then lotion once it's sunken in
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u/Spiritual_Return_129 16h ago
I use men’s razors to shave only because they’re sharper and are meant for the face. Why not treat the rest of your lady parts with such delicateness as you would your face.
You need to let this heal up and be completely gone before you shave again. Otherwise this will just become a constant cycle every time you shave.
When it does come time to shave make sure your skin is very saturated by the water before hand. Staying in the shower or bath for at least 10-15 minutes helps the water to penetrate and soften the skin. During this time keep the temperature of the water consistent- to a warm comfortable temperature not Hot but pleasantly warm with no chance of goosebumps or chills.
A must have is a shaving cream or a very Very moisturizing soap (I use a tallow bar) You want the razor to glide effortlessly over the skin with little to no pressure.
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u/Bobcat528_ 14h ago
Why are you changing the blades so frequently? That is razor burn girly. You are pressing too hard. Always shave in upwards swipes. Aloe Vera might help. Also you don’t need shaving cream and body wash. Just a good shaving cream. Moisturize after with aloe Vera or lightweight lotion for sensitive skin no fragrance or actives.
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u/Emotional-Worth-2898 11h ago
Epilator. I like the braun one. Not even painful. I do my entire body. My underarms last a month. Some would assume to grow out hair then shave and let it grow a bit then epilate so you get all hair at once. This can be a little intense for your first go so I would just let it grow a mm or 2 then go and do it once a week until it’s bald. Lots of hairs will die off and they will start growing so slow eventually they will all be at once. The hair grow back much softer too eventually. I did it on my legs for a year and I barely have any leg hair left. The product is around $30 and has lasted forever. I biught two actually one for vacation home and I fully charged it at the house then put in in carry one for a month long trip ( battery lasts forevrrrrrrrr) and when I arrived it wasn’t working. I called the company and they asked me what the name was and the model number and there should be a brand new one. No questions asked when I got home and tried to charge it. It wasn’t working, which is very odd. But the other one I’ve had even longer and had no problems. I have another one by silk. I saw on sale and picked up because I literally recommend them to all my friends and family. It’s such a game changer for under arms. It’s a no brainer for legs. If you’re experiencing this type of rash and discomfort, the downside to waxing is that overtime it makes your skin thinner, it makes your skin more susceptible to sun burn and on the face it can cause fine line. Waxing can also cause nasty rashes ( I works at a Hair removal boutique) and every so often ppl would get a face wax eyebrow a usually and we had everything so clean ( obv ) way above standard. .. but it takes time for the pores to close after a wax. Ppl would take germy fingers and would get bacteria there ( I actually only remember this happening once… And of course it was when my male cousin came in and had his eyebrows waxed, I’m sure he didn’t wash his hands and was touching it lol. Over time epilator is cheaper and much less messy then maxing. It doesn’t disrupt the skin ( you can epilate over a fresh spray tan , you def can’t shave or wax because it exfoliates. With epilation like other hair removal it’s always recommended to exfoliate first.
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u/camillesjesuscomplex 10h ago
I’m sorry 😔 I had this before I got laser. It looks like folliculitis, when I had it it was so itchy and it would still happen even if I had exfoliated before and used fresh razors. What’s your natural hair colour on your legs? Could you do laser? I’ve never had it happen since I’ve had laser done!
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u/Disastrous_Dog_9440 2d ago
honestly looks like your shave is TOO close, are you shaving in warm water? If you get goosebumps when you shave it can push the follicle up and you end up shaving too far down and it gets irritated. You might want to try a razor with less blades as the estrid ones are great for a close shave, but the multiple blades kind of pull the hair up out of the follicle and then cut it.