Shaving creams often contain ingredients that can help moisturize the skin, provide a cooling effect, or reduce skin irritation. However, they are not the best option for sunburn relief.
This article explores how some shaving cream ingredients may help relieve sunburn symptoms. It also discusses how to prevent and treat sunburn and answers some frequently asked questions.
There are no publicly available studies into the effects of shaving cream on sunburns.
However, shaving creams contain soaps or surfactants that can easily cause irritation. Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension of the liquid they are in, making the liquid easier to mix with water and work up into a foam.
Moreover, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology states that soap can increase the pH level of the skin. This can worsen symptoms of eczema.
Another common shaving cream ingredient is fragrance.
Shaving cream instructions usually indicate to rinse it off after use. Therefore, leaving it on the skin may not be beneficial, because the soap ingredients can increase irritation.
However, some of the ingredients in shaving cream may help soothe the skin.
Using menthol shaving cream for sunburn treatment
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It is of note, however, that there are no studies showing menthol can help recovery from sunburn or provide intense moisture to the skin.
Some shaving creams contain ingredients that may help sunburn. These ingredients include the following:
Vitamin E
A variety of skin care products contain vitamin E, which has a number of benefits for the skin. These include:
- anti-inflammatory properties
- potential
moisturizing properties - potential
wound-healing properties
Some
Aloe vera
Aloe vera has humectant properties. Humectants, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and propylene glycol,
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that using a moisturizer containing aloe vera or soy can help relieve sunburn.
It is important to note, however, that research into the effects of aloe vera on sunburn is limited.
Shea butter
Many moisturizing products contain shea butter. Some people use it as a replacement for shaving cream.
Shea butter can help:
- reduce the signs of
aging alleviate eczema symptoms- moisturize dry skin
The moisturizing properties of shea butter may help soothe sunburn. However, more research into the effects that shea butter has on sunburn is necessary.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a popular ingredient in herbal medicine. It has anti-inflammatory properties. Also,
However, more evidence-based research is needed to support the use of chamomile as a treatment for skin conditions.
Green tea
Green tea contains antioxidants and polyphenols.
A
According to the AAD, a person recovering from sunburn should:
- protect themselves from further skin damage by limiting sun exposure
- use hydrating and moisturizing products, such as an after sun lotion
- drink plenty of water
- take cool showers or baths
- wear clothes that cover the skin, while outdoors
- consider using ibuprofen or aspirin
The AAD also suggests that it is possible to prevent sunburn by:
- choosing broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against UVA and UVB rays
- using sunscreens with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher
- choosing water-resistant sunscreens
- wearing sun-protective clothes
- seeking shade
It is also important to use sunscreen frequently and generously. The authors of a
If a person’s skin is itchy, raw, or blistered, they should seek immediate medical attention.
It is also advisable to contact a doctor if over-the-counter (OTC) treatments are not effective. A doctor may prescribe pain relief medication, antibiotics, or creams that can alleviate the symptoms faster than OTC treatments.
Below, we answer some of the most common questions about shaving cream and sunburn.
Does shaving cream reduce sunburn?
There is no scientific evidence that using shaving cream can reduce the symptoms of sunburn.
However, some shaving creams contain hydrating and moisturizing ingredients, such as aloe vera and vitamin E. These ingredients may help soothe irritation caused by sunburn.
Products such as after sun lotions often contain similar ingredients and are likely to soothe sunburn more effectively than shaving cream.
Does menthol shaving cream really help sunburn?
There are no studies that prove menthol shaving cream can reduce irritation caused by sunburn.
Is there anything more effective for sunburn than shaving cream?
Yes. According to the AAD, a person can try:
- taking cool showers or baths
- using moisturizers
- drinking water
- covering the skin and limiting further sun exposure
There are many shaving cream products with hydrating and moisturizing ingredients that can help reduce irritation on the skin. Some shaving creams also contain cooling ingredients, such as menthol.
However, shaving cream is not the best option for sunburn relief. Alternatives include using moisturizing and hydrating creams, taking cool baths or showers, and limiting sun exposure by wearing protective clothing.
People with blistering, raw, or very itchy sunburns should consult a doctor to find an effective treatment.