Try exfoliating that dead skin. Skip the cortisone - longterm use will lead to thin skin and telangiectasia (tiny red bloodvessels, reminiscent of an alcoholic's nose).
JJ-Try exfoliating with St. Ives Apricot Scrub. Often I will shave with the grain, then use the St. Ives., then shave against the grain. WHOA!!