Why do my legs itch after I shave?

It was summer ten years ago when my legs started itching. It was a heat wave, my second year of uni, and my legs were aflame. I assumed I was having an allergic reaction to something, and so dutifully checked my detergent, my skincare regime- the works- but nothing was different. I went to my GP, who almost immediately diagnosed me with folliculitis- an infection of the hair follicles. I was given a course of antibiotics and strict instructions not to shave my legs for a month. In the middle of a heat wave, you can imagine this was excellent news. This was the summer I bought 500 maxi dresses.

Ten years later and I am comfortably convinced I never had folliculitis after all. Because what began that summer has been my reality for the past decade. My legs react very badly to shaving- no matter what moisturiser I throw at it, what cleansing oils or careful shaving techniques I deploy- the end result will still be painfully itchy legs. Summers are, understandably, a blast.

The fact is, I got complacent with it- assumed itchy legs and shaving rash were my new normal and, much like the way I have stuck with the same skin regime for a decade, I never altered my hair removal technique- assuming waxing would have much the same effect. But this year-on the tenth anniversary of ‘itchy-leg-summer’ I decided a decade of inaction was ridiculous. I went into full-on investigation mode.

The first person I spoke to was Paula Begoun, founder of Paula’s Choice; a brand which has established itself on unbiased and thorough approach to skincare, steeped in Paula’s history with consumer advocacy.

So, what causes itchy, rash-prone skin like mine?

“Rashes from shaving are often caused by the skincare products you are using on your legs. If you are scrubbing your legs, especially with loofahs or salt scrubs or any other types of manual scrubbing, stop doing so, as it causes irritation and rashes even if you don’t shave,” she says, “Skin can become even more inflamed if the body care products you use contain any fragrance, including natural fragrances like essential oils. It’s very possible that shaving your legs isn’t causing the rashes but the skin care products you use are.”

Noted. A quick inspection of my skin regime shows fragrance-free, innocent-seeming products, but I make a mental note to not scrub my legs either.

It does make me question: should I be shaving at all? Paula runs me through the alternatives.

“Epilating is an option as it works fast and can last for several days but for some people it’s painful and this method isn’t as permanent or even semi-permanent (depends on how much hair you have and its thickness) as the claims make it sound. To use it effectively on a regular basis you have to have some hair length for the tweezers in the device to grab on to the hair and pull it out. This means you have to tolerate some amount of hair regrowth before you use it again, a practice not everyone likes when their goal is to always have bare legs.”

I agree, thinking back to my maxi-dress summer of hairy legs and- no matter what patriarchal pressure may have contributed to my viewpoint- how much I do not like leaving my legs au natural… What about waxing? I already get my bikini line done, but have always demurred from my legs due to cost and upkeep.

Last Updated: Mar 16, 2016

Itchy legs after shaving is a common dilemma for women. Painful scratching can put even the most rational woman into a fit of frustration and tears. Itchy legs after shaving can happen for a few reasons, one being dry skin. Sometimes, a rash may even appear after shaving. There are, however, many different ways and techniques to treat and prevent this irritating issue.

Causes

There are a few causes for itchy skin and rashes after shaving legs. These causes can be your own skin issues and some are caused directly from shaving.

Dry skin

Skin sensitivity

Dull razors

Razor burn

Scratching

Treatments

There are numerous methods of how to stop itching after shaving legs. There are many over-the-counter treatments, as well as natural treatments.

Over-the-counter treatments

Camphor

Diphenhydramine

Benzocaine (or any topical 'caine')

Anti-itch creams which contain 1% hydrocortisone cream can also be beneficial in soothing the itch; especially when there is a rash on legs after shaving.

Natural treatments

Aloe is a natural soother used for many skin irritations, including sunburn. Juice from aloe can be applied directly from the plant source.

Oatmeal is, by far, one of the best natural treatments for how to stop itching after shaving legs. Taking an oatmeal bath will help soothe any itch or rash, including hives from an allergic reaction. Simply use a knee high stocking, fill with oatmeal, and use as a body pouf within the bath waters. Oatmeal will not only soothe irritated skin but also intensely moisturize, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth.

Lavender will not only soothe the skin but also the senses. Use in a bath to alleviate itch and pain, and also to de-stress. Soothe away pain and stress in a lavender bath.

Tea tree oil has long been used as a natural antiseptic. Used most often for skin issues such as acne, dandruff, and eczema, tea tree oil will balance skin and ease irritation.

Prevention

Always use shaving creams or products when shaving in order to hydrate skin. Never use water alone. Although you can use soap, it is not recommended as it can dry skin out. If you like the feel of soap for shaving, try goat milk soap which actually neutralizes the ph in your skin. If you have sensitive skin, try sensitive shaving products that contain aloe. Leave shaving cream on your legs for approximately three minutes to further soften hairs.

Shave in the direction of your hair growth. If you shave hairs against the grain, irritation and bumps can occur.