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If shaving leaves your legs feeling rough, dry or uneven, you may wonder whether adding exfoliation will help—and where that step belongs in your routine.

So, should you exfoliate before or after shaving?

For most people, gentle exfoliation belongs before shaving rather than immediately afterward. Exfoliating first can help loosen excess surface buildup and prepare rough-feeling skin. Shaving can then remove the hair without adding exfoliation to skin that has just been exposed to a razor.

However, that does not mean you need to exfoliate every time you shave.

Shaving already creates friction at the skin’s surface. Using an aggressive scrub or exfoliating glove during the same routine may be too much for dry, sensitive or easily irritated skin. In those situations, it may be better to exfoliate on a different day and allow the skin time to settle before shaving.

After shaving, the priority should usually shift from exfoliation to soothing, moisturizing and minimizing additional friction.

The best routine is not simply: Exfoliate as much as possible before shaving.

It is: Exfoliate gently when needed, shave carefully and moisturize afterward.

Key Takeaways

• For most people, exfoliating before shaving makes more sense than exfoliating immediately afterward.
• Exfoliation and shaving do not always need to happen during the same shower.
• If your skin is sensitive or prone to razor burn, exfoliate on a different day.
• Use light pressure when exfoliating; scrubbing harder will not necessarily produce smoother skin.
• Do not exfoliate skin that is already irritated, sunburned, cut or inflamed.
• Use shaving cream or gel rather than shaving dry skin.
• Shave in the direction of hair growth if you are prone to razor bumps or irritation.
• Apply a gentle moisturizer after shaving.
• You do not need to use an exfoliating glove before every shave.

In This Article

• Should you exfoliate before or after shaving?
• Why exfoliating before shaving may help
• Why you should be careful about exfoliating after shaving
• Should you exfoliate and shave on the same day?
• How long should you wait between exfoliating and shaving?
• Can you use an exfoliating glove before shaving?
• The best exfoliating, shaving and moisturizing order
• How to prepare your skin before shaving
• Common exfoliating and shaving mistakes
• When to skip exfoliation and shaving
• How to care for your skin after shaving
• Frequently asked questions

Quick Comparison: Exfoliating Before vs. After Shaving

Should You Exfoliate Before or After Shaving?

In most routines, exfoliation should come before shaving.

Gentle exfoliation can help remove some of the excess dead skin cells sitting at the surface. This may leave rough-feeling areas smoother and create a more even surface for shaving.

Once you finish shaving, the skin may be more vulnerable to stinging, dryness and irritation. Following immediately with an exfoliating scrub, acid or textured glove may add unnecessary friction.

The simplest routine order is:

1. Soften the skin and hair with warm water.
2. Exfoliate gently, if exfoliation is needed.
3. Rinse the skin.
4. Apply shaving cream or gel.
5. Shave carefully with a clean, sharp razor.
6. Rinse and pat the skin dry.
7. Apply a gentle moisturizer.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wetting the skin before shaving, using shaving cream or gel and shaving in the direction the hair grows to help reduce razor bumps and razor burn. It also recommends moisturizing after shaving to help reduce dryness. American Academy of Dermatology

Why Exfoliating Before Shaving May Help

Exfoliating before shaving may help when roughness is being caused partly by excess surface buildup.

It can:

• loosen some dead skin cells at the skin’s surface;
• smooth dry or rough-feeling areas;
• help remove buildup around hair follicles;
• make body-care products easier to spread evenly;
• and prepare the skin for the next steps in the routine.

However, exfoliation does not change the thickness of the hair, and it cannot guarantee that you will avoid ingrown hairs, razor bumps or irritation.

Shaving results also depend on:

• the condition of the razor;
• how much pressure you use;
• whether the hair and skin were softened first;
• the direction you shave;
• the amount of lubrication provided by the shaving product;
• and how your skin is treated afterward.

If your legs still feel rough after removing the hair, shaving technique may not be the only factor. Dryness, dead skin buildup and a disrupted moisture barrier can also contribute. Our guide to why legs can still feel rough after shaving explains those possibilities in more detail.

Does Exfoliating Give You a Closer Shave?

Exfoliating may help create a smoother-feeling surface, but it does not automatically mean the razor will remove hair more closely.

A close, comfortable shave depends more directly on:

• softening the hair with water;
• using enough shaving cream or gel;
• using a clean, sharp blade;
• avoiding too much pressure;
• and not repeatedly passing the razor over the same area.

The American Academy of Dermatology notes that a dull blade can increase the likelihood of irritation and recommends changing disposable or single-blade razors after approximately five to seven shaves. American Academy of Dermatology

If the skin feels smoother after exfoliating, the overall result may feel more polished. But exfoliating too aggressively before shaving can have the opposite effect by leaving the skin feeling tender or irritated.

Why You Should Be Careful About Exfoliating After Shaving

Shaving does more than cut hair. A razor also passes directly across the skin, creating friction and potentially causing tiny nicks or areas of irritation.

This is why freshly shaved skin may sting when exposed to:

• aggressive body scrubs;
• exfoliating acids;
• heavily fragranced lotions;
• alcohol-based products;
• rough towels;
• hot water;
• or a textured exfoliating tool.

Using a physical exfoliator immediately after shaving may add another round of friction before the skin has had time to settle.

The result may be:

• redness;
• tightness;
• burning or stinging;
• increased dryness;
• tenderness;
• or more noticeable razor burn.

Shaving can sometimes inflame hair follicles or contribute to razor burn, particularly when the skin is dry or the razor is dull. Cleveland Clinic recommends pausing further hair removal when razor burn is present and using gentle, fragrance-free moisturizing products while the skin recovers. Cleveland Clinic

If your skin is already showing signs of irritation, exfoliating again is unlikely to be the answer. Review the warning signs of over-exfoliation before adding another exfoliating step.

Should You Exfoliate and Shave on the Same Day?

Some people can gently exfoliate and shave during the same shower without experiencing irritation. Others may find that combining the two steps leaves their skin dry, tight or uncomfortable.

Same-day exfoliation may be reasonable when:

• your skin is healthy and comfortable;
• you do not regularly experience razor burn;
• you use very light pressure;
• you are not combining multiple exfoliating products;
• and the skin does not feel tender after exfoliating.

It may be better to exfoliate on a separate day when:

• your skin is sensitive;
• you have recently experienced razor burn;
• your legs feel dry or tight;
• you use a more intensive physical exfoliation method;
• you are using a chemical exfoliant;
• or your skin becomes red easily.

Skin tolerance matters more than forcing exfoliation and shaving into one routine.

If same-day exfoliation consistently leaves your skin uncomfortable, separate the steps rather than trying to make your skin “get used to” more friction.

How Long Should You Wait Between Exfoliating and Shaving?

There is no single waiting period that works for every skin type or every exfoliating method.

If you use a very gentle form of exfoliation and your skin feels calm afterward, you may be able to shave during the same shower.

If you use a more intensive physical exfoliator, have dry or sensitive skin, or notice temporary redness, it is better to wait until your skin feels completely normal before shaving. For some people, that may mean shaving the following day instead.

Use the condition of your skin as the deciding factor.

Shave the same day only if:

• the skin is not red;
• it does not sting;
• it does not feel tight;
• there are no cuts or broken areas;
• and you can apply shaving cream without discomfort.

Wait and shave later if:

• the skin looks flushed;
• it feels tender;
• water or body products sting;
• the skin feels unusually dry;
• or exfoliation produced more friction than expected.

The goal is not to follow the shortest possible waiting time. The goal is to avoid stacking two potentially irritating steps on skin that is already asking for rest.

Can You Use an Exfoliating Glove Before Shaving?

Yes, an exfoliating glove can be used before shaving—but it should be used gently and only when your skin actually needs physical exfoliation.

The Dreambox Beauty Deep Exfoliating Glove is designed to help lift excess surface buildup during a body-care routine. It should not be used as a daily shaving accessory or scrubbed aggressively across the skin before every shave.

When using an exfoliating glove before shaving:

1. Allow the skin to soften in warm water.
2. Avoid very hot water.
3. Use the glove with controlled, gentle pressure.
4. Do not repeatedly scrub the same area.
5. Rinse away loosened surface buildup.
6. Check how the skin feels before proceeding.
7. Apply shaving cream or gel before using the razor.

If the skin feels tender after exfoliating, stop the routine there. Rinse, moisturize and save shaving for another day.

For detailed instructions, read How to Use an Exfoliating Glove Correctly.

How Often Should You Exfoliate Before Shaving?

You do not need to exfoliate before every shave.

How often you exfoliate should depend on:

• your skin type;
• how frequently you shave;
• the strength of the exfoliating method;
• whether you use other exfoliating products;
• and how your skin responds afterward.

The American Academy of Dermatology advises that more aggressive exfoliation generally needs to be performed less frequently. It also cautions against exfoliating skin with open cuts, wounds or sunburn. American Academy of Dermatology

If you shave several times per week, using an exfoliating glove before every shave may create more friction than your skin can comfortably tolerate.

Instead, consider exfoliating occasionally as part of your wider body-care routine and shaving separately when necessary.

Signs you may need to reduce exfoliation include:

• persistent redness;
• burning or stinging;
• worsening flaking;
• tight-feeling skin;
• increased sensitivity;
• or skin that looks shiny and irritated.

You can also review seven common exfoliation mistakes before deciding how frequently to combine exfoliation with shaving.

The Best Order: Exfoliate, Shave and Moisturize

A simple body-care routine should prepare the skin without overwhelming it.

For most people, the best order is:

1. Soften the skin and hair with warm water.
2. Cleanse gently.
3. Exfoliate only if needed.
4. Rinse the skin thoroughly.
5. Apply shaving cream or gel.
6. Shave carefully.
7. Rinse and pat dry.
8. Apply a gentle moisturizer.

If your skin does not tolerate exfoliation and shaving during the same shower, move exfoliation to a separate day.

There is no benefit to completing every step at once if the result is red, tight or uncomfortable skin.

Step 1: Soften Your Skin and Hair

Begin with warm—not hot—water.

Allowing the skin and hair to soften before shaving may make the hair easier to cut and help the razor move across the skin with less resistance.

You can:

• shower for several minutes before shaving;
• hold a warm, damp washcloth over the area;
• or allow the area to soak briefly in warm water.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends shaving when the hair is soft, such as toward the end of a shower. American Academy of Dermatology

Very hot water is not necessary. It may leave dry or sensitive skin feeling tighter and more uncomfortable.

Step 2: Cleanse the Skin Gently

Wash away sweat, oil and surface residue before exfoliating or shaving.

Choose a gentle cleanser that does not leave the skin feeling stripped. Avoid combining shaving with several harsh cleansing or exfoliating products in the same routine.

If the skin feels tight immediately after cleansing, that may be a sign that your water temperature, cleanser or overall routine is too drying.

Learn more about why skin can feel tight after a shower.

Step 3: Exfoliate Only When Needed

Exfoliation is an occasional skin-smoothing step—not a requirement before every shave.

If your skin feels healthy and has noticeable surface buildup, gentle exfoliation may help prepare it for shaving.

Depending on your routine, you may use:

• a gentle physical exfoliating tool;
• a mild body scrub;
• or a chemical body exfoliant used according to its directions.

Do not combine several exfoliating methods at once. For example, avoid using an exfoliating acid, a grainy scrub and an exfoliating glove during the same routine.

More exfoliation does not always produce smoother-looking skin. It may instead cause redness, dryness or sensitivity.

If you are unsure whether your skin needs this step, review how to tell if your skin needs exfoliation.

Step 4: Rinse Before Applying Shaving Cream

After exfoliating, rinse the skin thoroughly.

This helps remove:

• loosened surface buildup;
• remaining cleanser;
• exfoliating product residue;
• and anything that could interfere with the shaving product.

Take a moment to check how the skin feels.

If it feels calm and comfortable, you may be able to continue with shaving. If it feels hot, tight, tender or irritated, stop and shave on another day.

Step 5: Apply Shaving Cream or Gel

Do not dry shave.

Shaving cream or gel creates lubrication between the razor and the skin. It may help the blade glide more easily and reduce unnecessary pulling and friction.

Apply an even layer and give it a moment to soften the hair before shaving.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, look for a shaving product designed for sensitive skin and avoid heavily fragranced formulas if fragrance tends to cause irritation.

Soap alone may not provide enough lubrication for every skin type.

Step 6: Shave With a Clean, Sharp Razor

A dull razor may require more pressure or repeated passes, increasing the likelihood of discomfort.

For a gentler shave:

• use a clean, sharp blade;
• move the razor in short, controlled strokes;
• rinse the blade regularly;
• avoid pressing down hard;
• and try not to shave repeatedly over the same area.

Shaving in the direction of hair growth can help reduce razor bumps and irritation, particularly if you are prone to ingrown hairs.

A closer shave is not always a better shave if achieving it requires excessive pressure or too many passes.

Step 7: Rinse and Pat the Skin Dry

Rinse away the remaining shaving product with lukewarm water.

Avoid scrubbing freshly shaved skin with a towel. Instead, gently pat the area dry.

Leaving the skin slightly damp before moisturizing may help the moisturizer spread more easily and reduce the amount of rubbing required.

Step 8: Moisturize After Shaving

After shaving, shift the focus from exfoliation to hydration and comfort.

Apply a gentle moisturizer while the skin is still slightly damp. Look for a formula that feels comfortable and does not sting.

A post-shaving moisturizer may help:

• reduce tightness;
• replenish moisture;
• support a softer skin feel;
• and protect against the dry feeling that sometimes follows shaving.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying moisturizer after shaving to help reduce dryness. American Academy of Dermatology

If your lotion feels sticky or seems to remain on the surface, read Why Does Lotion Sit on My Skin? for possible causes and routine adjustments.

Should You Use a Physical or Chemical Exfoliant Before Shaving?

Both physical and chemical exfoliation can remove surface buildup, but they work differently.

Physical Exfoliation

Physical exfoliation uses a textured product or tool to manually lift surface buildup.

Examples include:

• exfoliating gloves;
• textured washcloths;
• body scrubs;
• and exfoliating sponges.

The amount of pressure you use matters. A rougher tool does not need aggressive scrubbing to work.

If you plan to shave during the same shower, use controlled pressure and stop if the skin becomes red or tender.

Chemical Exfoliation

Chemical exfoliants use ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids or beta-hydroxy acids to loosen bonds between surface skin cells.

These products vary greatly in strength. Some are designed for frequent use, while others should be used much less often.

Follow the individual product directions rather than assuming a chemical exfoliant is gentle enough to combine with shaving.

If a chemical exfoliant makes the skin sting, peel or feel unusually sensitive, do not shave over the area until the skin feels normal again.

Can You Combine Them?

Avoid combining a strong chemical exfoliant, physical exfoliating glove and razor in one routine.

Stacking several methods may increase dryness and irritation without creating a meaningfully smoother result.

The simplest approach is usually the safest:

• select one exfoliating method;
• use it only as often as your skin tolerates;
• and separate it from shaving if your skin becomes sensitive.

Exfoliating and Shaving Different Areas of the Body

Skin tolerance can vary from one area to another. A routine that works well for the legs may be too aggressive for the underarms or bikini area.

Legs

The legs often tolerate gentle exfoliation better than more delicate areas, but dryness and razor burn can still occur.

If your legs feel rough after shaving:

• check the condition of your razor;
• use enough shaving cream;
• avoid very hot water;
• reduce repeated razor passes;
• and moisturize afterward.

Persistent roughness may not always be caused by hair. Dry skin and surface buildup can remain even after the hair has been removed.

Underarms

Underarm skin is exposed to friction from shaving, clothing and deodorant.

Avoid aggressive exfoliation immediately before applying deodorant, particularly if your deodorant contains ingredients that sting freshly shaved skin.

If exfoliating and shaving together causes discomfort, separate the steps.

Bikini Area

The bikini area may be more prone to:

• razor bumps;
• ingrown hairs;
• redness;
• and friction from clothing.

Use a gentle shaving product, avoid stretching the skin tightly and shave carefully in the direction of hair growth.

Do not use an aggressive exfoliating glove on inflamed bumps, cuts or broken skin.

Painful, persistent or infected-looking bumps should be evaluated by a healthcare professional rather than repeatedly exfoliated.

Arms

If you shave your arms, follow the same basic routine:

• soften;
• gently exfoliate if needed;
• apply shaving cream;
• shave carefully;
• and moisturize.

Do not assume the arms need exfoliation simply because they are being shaved.

Common Exfoliating and Shaving Mistakes

Even if you follow the correct order, the way you perform each step can still affect the result.

Mistake 1: Exfoliating Before Every Shave

If you shave frequently, exfoliating every time may expose your skin to more friction than it can tolerate.

Exfoliation should be based on the condition of your skin—not automatically attached to every shaving session.

Mistake 2: Scrubbing Harder for a Closer Shave

Exfoliating harder does not make the razor cut the hair more closely.

Excessive pressure may leave the skin more sensitive before the razor even touches it.

Mistake 3: Shaving Immediately After Aggressive Exfoliation

If exfoliation leaves your skin red or tender, shaving immediately afterward may make the discomfort worse.

Wait until the skin feels calm again.

Mistake 4: Exfoliating Freshly Shaved Skin

Freshly shaved skin does not usually need another friction-based treatment.

Moisturize and allow the skin to settle.

Mistake 5: Dry Shaving

Dry shaving increases friction and may cause the razor to drag across the skin.

Use shaving cream or gel, even when you only need to shave a small area.

Mistake 6: Using a Dull Razor

A dull blade may pull at the hair or require several passes over the same area.

Replace blades regularly and avoid leaving razors in conditions that prevent them from drying properly.

Mistake 7: Pressing Too Hard

The razor should glide over the skin. Pressing down harder may increase the likelihood of cuts, irritation and razor burn.

Mistake 8: Skipping Moisturizer

Exfoliation and shaving can both leave the skin feeling dry. Applying moisturizer afterward helps complete the routine.

For more routine errors to avoid, read 7 Common Exfoliation Mistakes That Can Damage Your Skin.

When Should You Skip Both Exfoliating and Shaving?

Sometimes the best body-care decision is to leave the skin alone.

Skip exfoliating and shaving when the area has:

• active razor burn;
• open cuts;
• broken skin;
• sunburn;
• persistent redness;
• burning or stinging;
• a painful rash;
• inflamed bumps;
• or signs of infection.

You should also pause if products that normally feel comfortable suddenly begin to sting.

Allow the skin time to recover before adding exfoliation or shaving back into the routine.

If symptoms are severe, worsening or do not improve, speak with a dermatologist or another qualified healthcare professional.

What Should You Do If You Already Exfoliated After Shaving?

If you exfoliated after shaving and your skin still feels comfortable, you may not need to do anything beyond moisturizing and monitoring the area.

If the skin begins to feel irritated:

1. Stop exfoliating and shaving.
2. Rinse away any remaining product.
3. Apply a cool, clean compress if the skin feels hot.
4. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
5. Avoid additional acids, scrubs and fragranced products.
6. Wear loose clothing over the affected area when possible.
7. Allow the skin to recover before shaving again.

Do not attempt to correct irritation by exfoliating more.

If you notice increasing pain, swelling, pus-filled bumps or other possible signs of infection, seek medical care.

Dreambox Beauty Deep Exfoliating Glove

If excess surface buildup is leaving your body skin feeling rough, the Dreambox Beauty Deep Exfoliating Glove can be incorporated into an occasional body-exfoliation routine.

The glove is designed to help lift away excess surface buildup while supporting softer, smoother-feeling skin.

How to Use It Before Shaving

• Soften the skin with warm water.
• Use the glove with gentle, controlled pressure.
• Avoid irritated, cut or freshly shaved areas.
• Rinse the skin thoroughly.
• Continue with shaving only if the skin feels calm.
• Use shaving cream or gel before applying the razor.
• Moisturize afterward.

Important Reminder

The Deep Exfoliating Glove does not need to be used before every shave.

If your skin becomes red, tight or sensitive after exfoliating, move shaving to another day.

SHOP THE DEEP EXFOLIATING GLOVE

Final Answer: Should You Exfoliate Before or After Shaving?

For most people, gentle exfoliation should happen before shaving, not immediately afterward.

Exfoliating first may help lift excess surface buildup and smooth rough-feeling skin. After shaving, the focus should shift to rinsing gently, patting the skin dry and applying moisturizer.

However, exfoliation is not required before every shave.

If your skin is dry, sensitive or prone to razor burn, exfoliating and shaving on separate days may be the better option. If exfoliation leaves the skin red, tight or tender, do not continue with shaving simply because it was part of the planned routine.

The best body-care order is the one that leaves your skin comfortable:

Soften. Exfoliate only if needed. Shave carefully. Moisturize.

Related Reading

Continue building your body-care routine with these Dreambox Beauty guides:

• Why Do My Legs Feel Rough Even After Shaving?
• How to Use an Exfoliating Glove Correctly
• Should You Moisturize Before or After Exfoliating?
• Can You Exfoliate Too Much? 7 Warning Signs
• 7 Common Exfoliation Mistakes to Avoid
• How to Tell If Your Skin Needs Exfoliation
• What Causes Dead Skin Buildup?
• Why Does Lotion Sit on My Skin?

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I exfoliate before or after shaving my legs?

For most people, gentle exfoliation is better before shaving. It may help remove excess surface buildup before the razor passes over the skin. Avoid aggressive exfoliation immediately after shaving because freshly shaved skin may be more sensitive.

How long before shaving should I exfoliate?

If you exfoliate gently and your skin feels completely calm, you may be able to shave during the same shower. If your skin becomes red, tight or tender, wait until it feels normal again. Sensitive skin may benefit from exfoliating on a separate day.

Can I exfoliate and shave on the same day?

Yes, some people can exfoliate and shave on the same day. Use light pressure, select only one exfoliating method and stop if the skin feels irritated. People with dry, sensitive or reactive skin may tolerate the routine better when the steps are separated.

Can I use an exfoliating glove before shaving?

Yes. Use the glove gently on softened skin and rinse thoroughly before applying shaving cream. Do not use it aggressively, on broken or inflamed skin, or as a mandatory step before every shave.

Can I use an exfoliating glove after shaving?

It is generally better not to use a textured exfoliating glove immediately after shaving. The razor has already created friction across the skin. Moisturize afterward and save physical exfoliation for another day.

Should I exfoliate before shaving my bikini area?

The bikini area can be more sensitive than the legs. If you exfoliate, use a very gentle method and avoid inflamed bumps, cuts and broken skin. If you regularly experience razor bumps or irritation, separate exfoliation and shaving.

Should I exfoliate before shaving my underarms?

You can gently exfoliate before shaving your underarms if the skin is healthy and comfortable. However, combining exfoliation, shaving and deodorant may cause stinging for some people. Separate the steps if the area becomes irritated.

Does exfoliating before shaving prevent ingrown hairs?

Exfoliation may help reduce some surface buildup around the hair follicle, but it cannot guarantee that ingrown hairs will not develop. Shaving technique, hair texture, blade condition and individual skin response also matter.

Does exfoliating before shaving give you a closer shave?

Exfoliating may make the surface feel smoother, but it does not automatically create a closer shave. Softening the hair, using shaving cream, choosing a sharp razor and avoiding excessive pressure are more directly connected to shaving technique.

Should I moisturize before or after shaving?

Apply moisturizer after shaving. Shaving cream or gel should be used during shaving to provide slip. Once you rinse and pat the skin dry, apply a gentle moisturizer to help reduce post-shaving dryness.

What should I apply after shaving?

Apply a gentle moisturizer that does not sting or contain ingredients you know irritate your skin. If your skin is sensitive, consider a fragrance-free formula.

How often should I exfoliate if I shave regularly?

You do not need to exfoliate every time you shave. The correct frequency depends on your skin type, exfoliating method and how your skin responds. Reduce the frequency if you experience redness, tightness, stinging or worsening dryness.

Can I shave if my skin feels irritated after exfoliating?

No. If the skin feels irritated after exfoliating, rinse, moisturize and postpone shaving. Continuing may add more friction to already-sensitive skin.

Is shaving a form of exfoliation?

A razor can remove some surface skin cells as it passes over the skin, but shaving is primarily a hair-removal method. Because it creates friction at the surface, it should still be considered when deciding how much additional exfoliation your skin can tolerate.

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Reviewed by the Dreambox Beauty Editorial Team

This article was reviewed by the Dreambox Beauty Editorial Team for clarity, product accuracy and consistency with our approach to gentle, practical body care.

Disclaimer

This article is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any skin condition and should not replace advice from a dermatologist or other qualified healthcare professional.

Individual skin responses vary. Discontinue exfoliation or shaving if you experience persistent redness, burning, pain, swelling or worsening irritation. Seek medical guidance for symptoms that are severe, recurring, infected-looking or do not improve.