How to Stop a Shaving Cut and Nicks From Bleeding

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It's frustrating and potentially embarrassing to cut yourself while shaving, but with practice, you can learn to minimize the damage and get a clean shave regardless. Besides the iconic toilet paper method, there are other, more hygienic and effective methods to learn how to stop a shaving cut from bleeding and prevent future mishaps.

Discover our alternative methods for healing nicks and cuts during your grooming routine while prioritizing a clean, smooth shave and minimizing skin irritations.

• 12 Home Remedies for Shaving Cuts and Nicks
1. Cold Water
2. Apply Pressure
3. Styptic Pencil
4. Cold Compress
5. Aloe Vera Gel
6. Petroleum Jelly
7. Lip Balm
8. Witch Hazel
9. Tea Tree Oil
10. Apple Cider Vinegar
11. Black Tea Bag
12. Aftershave
• Key Takeaways

12 Home Remedies for Shaving Cuts and Nicks

Shaving cuts happen—don’t let them ruin your day.
Photo by Tverdohlib.com on Depositphotos

Shaving can be a daily chore for many of us, but it can also be frustrating when a nick or cut occurs. Whether it's due to using the wrong razor, a dirty and dull blade, applying too much pressure, or not properly prepping the skin, these minor mishaps can quickly become a nuisance.

Here are 12 ways to treat and heal razor cuts and nicks:

Cold Water

Use cold water to rinse the area and constrict blood vessels. Cold water slows down chemical reactions in our body and can also slow down the blood flow while cleaning the nick and reducing the risk of bacterial infection.

Apply Pressure

Always apply firm pressure to any bleeding cut using a clean towel or tissue. This helps stop the bleeding and encourages the blood to clot. Hold the pressure for a few minutes until the bleeding stops.

Styptic Pencil

A styptic pencil is a handy tool that quickly stops bleeding from minor nicks and bigger shaving cuts. Like an alum block, it also contains potassium alum, which contracts the blood vessels and stops the bleeding—the pencil is more convenient. Use it by wetting the pencil's tip and applying it to the cut.

Cold Compress

For persistent bleeding, apply a cold compress¹, such as a bag of frozen peas, a cold pack, or a washcloth soaked in cold water, to the cut for a few minutes until the bleeding stops. Do not directly apply an ice cube to the skin.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera has natural healing² properties that soothe and heal a shaving cut. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the cut, let it dry, and reduce inflammation and redness.

Petroleum Jelly

Apply some petroleum jelly to the cut and let it sit. The jelly helps create a barrier over the cut, preventing infection and promoting healing.

Lip Balm

Some lip balms contain natural ingredients like beeswax and shea butter, which can create a barrier over minor shaving nicks, helping to stop bleeding and promote healing. Use a cotton swab to apply a small amount to the wound.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent³ known for its soothing and healing properties. Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and gently dab it on the cut, then cover it with a band-aid. This helps to cleanse the wound, reduce inflammation, and minimize the risk of infection.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that can help prevent infections and astringent properties that prevent bleeding. Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to the cut using a cotton swab. Be sure to patch test before applying directly to the skin.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has antiseptic properties⁴ and can help prevent infections. Dilute apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of water and apply it to the cut using a cotton ball. It may provide a slight stinging sensation, but it will help cleanse the wound effectively.

Black Tea Bag

Black tea contains tannins that act as a natural astringent. Wet a black tea bag in warm water, squeeze out the excess moisture, and place it on the cut for a few minutes. The tea's tannins help constrict the blood vessels and reduce bleeding.

Aftershave

For a minor shaving nick, a mild and soothing aftershave balm or lotion can help relieve and promote healing, as well as stop bleeding quickly. For a bigger shaving cut, an antiseptic aftershave containing ingredients like witch hazel or tea tree oil can help cleanse the wound and prevent infection.

Key Takeaways

For minor shaving nicks, remedies like a cool water rinse, styptic pens, or aloe vera work well. In contrast, severe cuts benefit from natural astringents such as witch hazel or apple cider vinegar. Recognizing the seriousness of a cut is crucial; deep or persistent bleeding may require medical attention. Doctors can recommend over-the-counter options, such as Neosporin, or prescribe medications as needed.

To prevent nicks and cuts, master proper wet shaving techniques using tools like straight razors or safety razors, paired with a lather made from shaving soap and a brush. These trusted barber-favored methods ensure a precise, comfortable shave. Investing in quality wet shaving tools not only enhances the experience but also reduces the risk of common shaving mishaps, resulting in a superior grooming outcome.

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References

1. Common First Aid Mistakes. (n.d.). University of Rochester Medical Center. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content?contenttypeid=1&contentid=4543
2. Hekmatpou, D., Mehrabi, F., Rahzani, K., & Aminiyan, A. (2019). The effect of Aloe vera clinical trials on prevention and healing of skin wound: A systematic review. Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences, 44(1), 1–9. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6330525/
3. Witch Hazel. (n.d.). PeaceHealth. https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-2186007
4. Leonard, J. (2017, July 5). Nine ways to treat and prevent razor burn. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/razor-burn-on-legs