How to Stop a Shaving Cut from Bleeding

Shaving cuts are part of the game, whether you’re a seasoned shaver or a beginner. Maybe your blade was a bit dull, or you accidentally swiped over a blemish or a bump. Whatever the reason, here you are, needing a quick fix to get your face looking presentable again.

The classic toilet paper trick may be tried and true, but here are a few more hygienic and effective ways to stop the bleeding, disinfect the cut, and encourage faster healing. One of these tricks? As simple as applying lip balm.

1. Clean with Warm Water

Run a clean washcloth under warm water and press it against the cut for 30 seconds. The warmth helps to clean the wound and can slow the bleeding. It’s a good first step to calm the area before applying any additional products.

2. Disinfect with Witch Hazel or an Alcohol-Free Aftershave

After you’ve cleaned the cut, apply a witch hazel-based toner or an alcohol-free aftershave to gently disinfect without drying out the skin. Witch hazel is popular as a post-shave product because it neutralizes bacteria and has a calming effect on irritated skin.

3. Apply Ice to Constrict Blood Vessels

For any lingering bleeding, grab an ice cube or a cold compress and hold it against the cut for 15-30 seconds. The cold constricts blood vessels, helping to stop the flow of blood. This is the same reason a cold water splash post-shave is often recommended—it tightens pores and soothes the skin.

4. Seal with Balm

For an easy sealing method, apply an unused, unscented balm to the cut. A balm acts as a barrier, preventing blood from escaping and germs from entering. A squeezable balm tube is ideal for hygienic application, but a lip balm stick will work too. Just make sure to clean off any part of the stick that’s touched your lips to avoid contamination.

Alternatively, an antibiotic ointment, like Neosporin, can serve this purpose. It’s both healing and disinfecting, creating a temporary closure for the cut.

5. Let It Rest

Once the balm is on, avoid touching or checking the cut for about 30 minutes. By then, the bleeding should have stopped, and the balm will have started to work its magic. After this time, gently wipe off any excess balm. You’ll likely see some redness but resist the urge to poke at it.

6. Reapply Balm Throughout the Day

Add a thin layer of balm periodically throughout the day, and make sure to do so before bed. This will keep the wound protected as it heals, especially during sleep when we might unknowingly touch our face.

7. Evening Cleanse and Witch Hazel

Before bed, cleanse your face and reapply a witch hazel toner to ensure the area stays clean and soothed. Follow up with another layer of balm to seal in moisture and keep the cut free from bacteria as you sleep.

Or, Try an Alum Block or Styptic Pencil

An alum block or styptic pencil—made from potassium alum—is a classic way to tackle shaving cuts. Wet the alum tool with cold water and press it against the cut. It acts as an astringent, drying out and disinfecting the area instantly. While some people use an alum block over their entire shave area as an aftershave to prevent razor burn, it’s best reserved for specific cuts to avoid overly drying out the skin.