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Irritation after shaving underarms

Medical expert of the article

Plastic surgeon
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025

Today, a large number of various cosmetic products for depilation have been developed, but still, both women and men prefer the time-tested method of getting rid of hair - shaving. Often, irritation and sometimes itching appear on the treated area, including the armpit area. If this phenomenon is frequent, then it can provoke a complication in the form of ingrown hairs. Irritation after shaving the armpits should not be ignored, but should be treated.

Causes of Underarm Irritation After Shaving

Often the cause of irritation after shaving the armpits is a non-sterile razor. Blades should be replaced regularly. Also, disposable razors should be used only once, and not for a long time.

The razor blade must be sharp, as a dull device will not only fail to remove hair, but will also damage the skin in the treatment area. And as a result - irritation. The best option is razors with aloe strips, as they have a disinfectant effect.

Another cause of irritation may be performing an activity right before leaving the house, when you put on clothes over a shaved area of skin.

You should not remove hair without using special products or without first wetting your armpits with water. Because they will soften both the skin and the hairs, so that irritation does not occur after the procedure.

How to get rid of irritation after shaving your armpits?

There are a number of ways to remove irritation after shaving your armpits. One of the proven methods is to treat the skin in the area where the unpleasant sensations are localized with a decoction of chamomile, as well as calendula, celandine or succession. Using a cotton swab generously soaked in a freshly prepared decoction, wipe the armpit.

An alcohol-containing solution or hydrogen peroxide will help to eliminate the problem, after which you should apply baby powder. By the way, dermatologists recommend using baby cream based on calendula or chamomile, as they have a calming effect.

Affordable and effective antiseptic ointments – Miramistin, Actovegin, Chlorhexidine, Solcoseryl, which should be in every home medicine cabinet – will help you get rid of the unpleasant consequences after hair removal. They prevent infection from entering the body, as a result of which micro-wounds heal much faster.

A balm made from oils can also help eliminate irritation. You can make it yourself: mix 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil and 4 teaspoons of any vegetable oil and apply to the problem area.

Lemon juice will help relieve discomfort.

A good way to relieve irritation is a mask of eggs and aloe. Beat the egg whites and grind the aloe. Combine both components and mix thoroughly. Apply to the affected area. After drying, rinse with warm water.

Read more about how to get rid of irritation after shaving?

How to avoid underarm skin irritation after shaving?

Everyone knows that it is easier to prevent any problem than to solve it later. To avoid irritation after shaving your armpits, you need to steam the skin before the procedure - by taking a shower or bath. Use only high-quality shaving cosmetics. Also, do not forget that only a clean and sharp razor should be used for depilation. Act carefully, slowly, so as not to scratch or damage. Shave the hairs in the direction of their growth, otherwise irritation cannot be avoided. Finally, rinse the armpit area with cool water and gently blot with a towel. Then use a cream with a soothing effect. Do not rush to put on tight clothes, they should be loose and made of natural fabric. It is best to do this cosmetic procedure in the evening, so as not to use a deodorant, which will clog the pores. But if use is unavoidable, then it should contain moisturizing components and vitamin E.

If the irritation does not go away for a long time and only progresses, causing painful sensations, you need to see a doctor. Perhaps these are symptoms of an infection entering the body, with the development of folliculitis or furuncle and without special treatment you can no longer do.


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