If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Shaving can irritate the skin, which may lead to itchy and painful red bumps. Itching after shaving may be a sign of razor burn or folliculitis. Shaving incorrectly, using a dull razor, or shaving a sensitive area of skin can all cause skin irritation. Using shaving products that contain artificial scents and harsh chemicals, such as alcohol, can irritate the skin and contribute to itchiness. People may shave for aesthetic, hygienic, or personal reasons. Regardless of the motivation, shaving provides an effective and efficient means of removing body hair. This article explains why the skin itches after shaving and how to prevent it.

Razor burn, razor bumps, and folliculitis Shaving with a razor can irritate the skin or cause ingrown hairs, which may lead to razor burn or folliculitis: Razor burn and bumps Share on Pinterest Being itchy after shaving might be a sign of razor burn or folliculitis. Razor burn is a type of skin irritation that develops immediately after shaving. Improper shaving techniques can irritate the skin, causing patches of red, itchy bumps. Razor burn does not necessarily mean the skin is infected. It can happen when people dry shave, which is shaving without using creams or gels. Razor bumps also develop after shaving. However, these occur as the result of ingrown hairs. Folliculitis Itching after shaving could also be a sign of folliculitis. This is a skin condition that results from a bacterial, fungal, or rarely, a viral infection of the hair follicle under the skin. It often results in red, acne-like spots and itchy, painful skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus often causes folliculitis. Some people are more prone to folliculitis than others. Shaving in the opposite direction to the way the hairs grow may increase a person’s risk of folliculitis. How to avoid Shaving can irritate hair follicles. Shaving with an unclean razor and against the grain can introduce bacteria into the hair follicles, which can lead to an infection. Razor burn, razor bumps, and folliculitis can technically affect any part of the body. However, they usually develop on areas of skin that people frequently shave, such as the legs, pubic area, and face.