Why am I getting this......?

[bbobbdd]

I have developed a slight rash on my cheeks. Slightly raised, not tender, etc. It is NOT razor burn.

I use a variety of Great Blades, Stirling Soaps (almost 100%) and quality DE Safety Razors. The razors are maintained like babies. I use an Alum block followed by Thayers Witch Hazel. Finally, a bit of Stirling Soaps balm or a coconut based face cream.

I'm trying to figure out which of my products, etc., might be causing the issue.

Would you start by using the same product, razor, etc. for several days and see what happens? Have any of you experienced and resolved this? Thanks folks!

 

[Calyshaver]

It sounds like your face needs a respite. I would start by shaving as little as possible until the rash heals and only use the absolute minimum of products and the least perfumed soaps. It also sounds like you have a lot going on with shaving products, and one or more in combination may be causing the rash or allergic reaction. The alum block is a good bet as it is basically a salt rub and we all know how that feels on an open wound.

Hope your face gets better soon!

 

[spacemonkey42]

You could try isolating your variables to see if it is a reaction to one of them. Like @Calyshaver said, let your face heal first. Then you could try doing a full lather with your soap, leaving it on your face as long as you would if shaving. See if that brings a reaction. Are any of your Stirling soaps sheep/lanolin based? Some people react to that.

You could also cut out your post shave balms for a bit, then add them in and see if there is a difference. It is a slow process, good luck, I hope your face feels better soon!

 

[Scarry Knight]

Some plant components can be phytotoxic. Orange oil is one EO that can create a rash when on/in skin that is then exposed to the sun.

 

[ButterfaceX]

Something does not like you, also remember it can also be a few things combined that is pissing your skin off.
Or one could be a bad batch, certain oils, or chemicals.
Just as stated, you have to really reduce your variables.
Try a Stirling unscented?
But first you have to mend the rash.
That is why I keep the process down to a routine of known elements.
I only have three types of blades that I use ( depends on the razor).
With known "Works for Me" : prep shaves, soaps and post shave process.


Good Luck,
BFX
Take care of that face, you only have one...

 

[brucered]

Don't shave. Apply the lathered soap to your face and wait X minutes (normal time to shave). Rinse off and do again for how many passes you normally do.

See if you get irritation.

Apply aftershave on a non shave day and see if you get irritation.

If everything checks out ok, it's likely weak lather or poor razor handling skills or a blade/razor that doesn't work for you.

On a semi related note. Find a razor and blade combo that works and stick with that. Especially if you are new to wet shaving.

Post shave. Stick with a warm rinse (to get soap off) then a cool rinse. Pick ONE AS product, not multiple. Ditch the Alum. You don't need three AS products. If you use a quality soap or cream, you actually don't need any AS, just a water rinse.

 

[pellidon]

I would start out after a rest of a few days with just shaving, no post shave treatment. Then add one in at a time to test your reaction.

I'd probably not use the alum and just the Thayers. Might be too much combined.

I know I get a reaction from the complex Bay Rum splashes so I use them infrequently. You might find something similar is happening to you.