Razor burn of the skin is a painful and often embarrassing rash that almost every single person will contract at one point in their life. But getting rid of this unsightly condition is much more difficult that one would imagine. Luckily, there are some tips and tricks to making sure razor burn and even razor bumps never affect you. Stopping razor burn basically means learning the most effective way to shave. It also means finding products that will work best with your specific skin types.

What is Razor Burn?

First off, it’s important to understand the difference between razor burn and razor bumps, as both problems require a different treatment approach. On one hand, razor burn occurs when the top layer of the skin is damaged by incorrect shaving. Luckily, the signs of razor burn are pretty easy to spot.

• Does your skin sting, or feel like sunburn?
• Is the skin red, mottled or bleeding?
• Did you recently shave with a brand new razor?
• Did you use a shaving lubricant or dry shave instead?

Most often, razor burn occurs when a new razor is used, pressed to hard against the skin. Razor burn can also occur after a fast shaving job, or one that was completed without soap or shaving cream to help the blade slide over the skin. On the other hand, razor bumps are not as simple. Characterized by little red spots after shaving that soon turn into the typical “white head,” razor bumps occur when shaved hair curls under the skin. Bumps are commonly seen paired with razor burn on pubic area. After becoming lodged, these shaved hairs will cause inflammation of the hair follicle, causing the red bumps that afflict so many of us after shaving.

Preventing Razor Burn

Keeping razor burn from happening in the first place is the key to never having to deal with the uncomfortable affliction. The key here is to shave carefully, using the correct techniques. But which way is the right way to shave? Take a look at some shaving tips that will help you remove hair like a pro.

• Use shaving cream or gel: Preventing razor burn on legs, face, or bikini area means lubricating the blade with a cream designed to help fight the rash.
• Take your time: Shave slowly, with long, even strokes. Fast shave jobs will injure the skin, causing rash.
• Shave with the hair: Instead of shaving up, shave down with the way your hair grows. This will prevent ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
• Use after shaving treatment: After shaving, use an aftershave or aloe cream to prevent razor burn on neck or bikini areas. For your legs, simply use a fragrance free lotion.

Getting Rid of Razor Burn

The key to razor burn treatment is to pay close attention to your own methods of shaving. But if you’ve already gotten razor burn and need a cure fast, there are still things that you can do to get rid of the red, unsightly stinging rash. First off, do not put any scented or perfumed lotions on the affected area. To minimize the appearance of irritation, try using a lotion or cream that contains aloe vera. You can also apply a hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching and pain. Most importantly, do not shave the area that has been irritated until the rash is gone. Shaving over the area could cause and even worse rash, possibly leading to infection.

Say Goodbye to Razor Burn

While getting rid of razor burn fast is the main goal for many, preventing the irritation in the first place is the most important step you can take to never having to deal with the problem again. First, always use shaving cream when shaving your face, legs, or bikini line. Use long, slow strokes that go with the hair to prevent irritation. Then be sure to follow up with a non-irritating aftershave or lotion.

One of the symptoms of HSV 1 or herpes simplex virus 1 is cold sores. These are small fluid filled blisters that are usually present on mucous membranes such as the buccal mucousa or at the mouth. These sores may be swollen and painful. It won’t leave scars as it heals but there are tendencies that it will reappear.

Herpes simplex virus 1 is the one accountable for the formation of cold sores. In fact, cold sores are one of its major symptoms. The virus is infectious and can be transmitted from one person to another. The mode of transmission occurs when there is an exchange of body discharges or when in contact with an active and open blister. Examples of transmission include kissing, sexual intercourse and using the same utensils with someone who is infected with the virus. When blisters are gone, it is not an assurance that you won’t be able to get the virus. HPV1 can still be infectious even if blisters already disappeared. A burning feeling on the skin is the earliest sign before blisters appear.

Photo by AJC1

As we all know HPV 1 is a communicable disease, it is still significant to get rid of it by being cautious and meticulous in dealing with person having the disease. Hand washing is the simplest form of protecting yourself from catching the virus. It is also advised to avoid touching delicate parts of your body such as on the genital area and on the eyes because these areas where the virus can replicate at its best.

Numerous studies have proved the benefits of using natural alternative cold sore remedies. These remedies are shown to be safe and effective. This article provides the list of effective home remedies for cold sores.

Home Remedies for Cold Sores

Lysine is an amino acid that not produced by our body so it has to be acquired from foods and processed supplements. Foods that contain lysine include red meat, wheat germ and dairy products. Lysine is vital in the production of protein in our bodies which aids in the formation of hormones, antibodies and body tissues. It is responsible in combating another amino acid called argenine. Argenine is an amino acid used by HPV1 in replicating itself. Lysine should be of a higher amount compared to arginine. Foods that contain argenine should be avoided. These foods include chocolates, almonds and peanuts.

Lemon Balm has an antiviral characteristic and is effective in fighting the herpes virus. When lemon balm is administered directly on the blisters it will allow the blister to heal usually in less than five days.

Peppermint oil can get into the skin assisting in the destruction of the virus and preventing its replication.

Reishi and astragalus is useful in augmenting the immune system. It is effective in diminishing the replication of the cold sores virus.

Resveratrol is also helpful in treating HSV 1. This is mainly obtained from red grapes. It helps in repressing the cold sores on lips when topically applied on the sore three to five times daily.

Propolis is also used as a cold sore treatment. Propolis prevents the HSV 1 to penetrate into the cells of the body.

If you ask anyone what the itchiest thing they’ve ever experienced is, you’ll find a group of people whose first response is the terrors of poison ivy. Often the most miserable rash that many people can describe, poison ivy is nothing to be casual about. Learning how to prevent coming into contact with the poisonous plant is the first step to avoiding a nightmare. But if you suspect you’ve already broken out in a rash, knowing the stages of irritation and how long does poison ivy last will help you get through the itchy illness.

How Poison Ivy is Contracted

You can contract a rash from poison ivy by simply coming into contact with the toxins that produce the nasty side effects we’ve all come to dread. While many people think that the only way to get a poison ivy rash is touch the plant directly, there are many different, sometimes unusual, ways that poison ivy can interfere with your health. Some of these methods include:

• Direct contact: This includes brushing up against the plant while running and removing it while gardening. Be advised that the whole plant is toxic, not just the leaves. So when removing poison ivy from your property, make sure to wear sturdy gloves that you then dispose of afterwards.
• Secondary contact: Direct contact isn’t necessary in order to get a rash. For example, you can get a rash from a pet that has come into contact with poison oak. Handling gloves or clothing that has brushed up against poison oak can also cause the side effects of burning and itching.
• While mowing or weed eating: If you plan to mow or weed eat any area, like a wild hillside, where you suspect there could be poison oak, make sure to wear long sleeves and plants. If you mow over a poison oak plant while cutting back foliage, microscopic bits of the plant can potentially be sprayed over your body, causing the rash.
• During a controlled burn or wildfire: If you’re burning brush or clearing land using a controlled burn, be aware that poison ivy can still cause problems. Breathing it large amounts of the smoking plant can cause damage and irritation to your lungs. Your best bet is to check the area and brush you plan to burn before lighting the first match.
• Immunity: Some people seem to have a natural defense against poison oak, but be aware that these immunities can fade over time. So even if you are immune to the rash and irritation, be cautious around the plant.

Photo by cygnus921

Symptoms of Poison Ivy Irritation

Everyone should know the signs of poison ivy to best prepare themselves if they find themselves breaking out in a mysterious rash they know nothing about. A mis-diagnosis of an unknown rash could mean life or death, so knowing exactly what you’re looking for is key to a safe and healthy treatment. Take a look at the step by step approach most poison ivy rashes start with:

1. You’ll notice redness and irritation of either a small or large patch of skin. At this stage, the rash will feel like sunburn.
2. As the poison oak progresses, your skin may break with hives or small, red sores. Swelling and itchiness will increase. Victims will most likely feel intense pain and burning.
3. The rash may settle into large, purple blotches and become extremely swollen. Itching will be very intense. If the face has been affected, make sure that the victim’s airways have not been constricted.
4. The rash should last about one week if treated properly, but up to three weeks if proper steps have not been taken to control the rash and spread of poison oak oil.

Poison Ivy Irritations

Avoiding a poison ivy outbreak is as simple as being aware of the brush you’re coming into contact with and keeping your skin covered. But if a rash has already broken out, expect itchiness and redness for anywhere from one to three weeks. As a victim of poison ivy, you may be wondering how long does poison ivy last? The answer comes in a variety of forms depending on how you handle the initial reaction.

Sebum (skin oils) are the archenemies to teenagers round the world, but the battle doesn’t always end on your 21^st birthday. Oily skin is a condition that last well into adulthood. The purpose of this article is to provide health tips for oily skin. We will discuss what causes oily skin, how to make your face less oily, and look at some common myths about oily skin.

What causes oily skin?

Sebaceous glands beneath the skin combine with hair to create the pilosebaceous unit. These hair and oil gland units are deep within the skin, connecting the hair shaft to the surface of the skin. It is through the pilosebaceous unit that we get fluids to the surface of our skin. And they cover the body, with the exception of our palms and the soles of our feet. The chin, nose, and forehead comprise the infamous “T-Zone”, where the highest concentration of pilosebaceous units are.

These sebaceous glands produce a blend of varied lipids and dead sebaceous gland cells. This complex blend is known as sebum, or skin oils. Some of the lipids found in the sebum include triglycerides, wax monoesters, squalane, and free fatty acids.

Photo by RachelHermosillo

The purpose of these sebaceous glands and the sebum is to keep the epidermis and hair lubricated and protected from the environment. The combination sebum, cellular debris, and sweat covering the outer skin is known as the acid mantle. It is an acidic environment with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. The acid mantle holds the epidermal and hair cuticle cells tightly together, preventing dehydrations, irritation, and sensitivity. Without it hair may become brittle and dull; as well, bacteria can invade the skin.

When the sebaceous glands become over productive, the result is oily skin. An excess of sebum can block pores and actually nourish bacteria living on the skin, contributing to acne. What causes over productive sebaceous glands is a hormone known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is what tells your sebaceous glands to produce sebum, and a high level of DHT will cause oily skin. Your level of DHT is determined by your genetics. It’s a git from your parents.

DHT shows up with puberty, which is why the teen years are spent acclimating to its levels. A woman’s menstrual cycle will affect her levels of DHT, oftentimes causing a breakout of acne or oil just before menstruation. As her progesterone rises, so does her DHT.

How to make your face less oily

There are ways to manage oily skin. Here are some tips for (an) oily face.

• Keep it simple. Only wash your face two times in a day, and use softer soaps like Dove, or cleansers like Cetaphil. Avoid harsh toners and other products that contain alcohol.
• Dermologica’s Dermal Clay Cleanser will help soak up some of the sebum and clear the oil from your face. You might also try L’Occitane’s Face Scrub Mud, or Ulta’s Detoxifying Mud Mask.
• Increase your B-Vitamin intake through whole grains, beans, nuts, and organ meats. Low B-Vitamin can contribute to excess oils.
• Chill out! Relax. High stress can cause an increase in oily skin. Get plenty of sleep, and learn some relaxation techniques. Exercise can help reduce stress as well.
• Exercise will also help eliminate toxins from your body, as well as clean out your acid mantle.
• Another helpful way to clean out toxins is drinking water. Drink a lot of water. Keeping hydrated will help balance the chemicals in the sebum. Avoid alcoholic drinks, sodas, and other caffeinated beverages that dehydrate your body.

Oily myths

Myth #1 – Oil control products will increase sebum production.

Most oil control products will help you maintain a clear complexion. Be selective. Read the labels carefully, and know what the active ingredients are. Talk to you doctor or dermatologist about what products are best for you.

Myth #2 – People with rosacea do not need to worry about oily skin.

Rosacea usually produces drier skin, but this may not be sufficient to stop an oily face condition. DERMAdoctor Calm Cool & Corrected anti-redness tranquility cream is specially formulated to handle oily skin for patients who also suffer from rosacea.

Myth #3 – Oil control products prevent the use of make-up.

Look for oil-free products, or products labeled “non-comedogenic”. Some of these products can even be used on top of acne prevention products.

Oily skin is a common condition that runs well past adolescence for many people. But there is hope. Follow these tips for oily skin, and you too will be able to feel comfortable in your own skin.