Razor bumps are a condition that affect as many as 60 percent of black men, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. This condition is also known as pseudofolliculitis barbae. Razor bumps are most often associated with shaving the beard area using a razor, but it is also possible to get them after shaving with an electric shaver.
Causes
Razor bumps are caused by ingrown hairs. After you shave, your hair might begin to grow, but then curve around and grow into your skin, or it might grow through the wall of the hair follicle. This is called an ingrown hair. If your body begins to fight the ingrown hair and irritation occurs, the condition is called razor bumps, according to Skin Sight.
Symptoms
You might notice a pimple-like bump around the ingrown hair. The bumps will be either red or flesh-colored and might contain pus. The area is usually painful and itchy. On African-American skin, you might notice areas of peeling on the affected areas.
Treatment
Treatment options include over-the-counter and prescription options. Wet, warm compresses applied to the razor bumps three times per day help to speed healing by softening the hair and skin. Removing the ingrown end of the hair using a sterilized needle is a treatment option recommended by the Mayo Clinic; however, if the hair isn't visible above the skin surface, this isn't an option, since the hair is embedded and digging it out can cause an infection. Prescription treatments include antibiotics, retinoids and corticosteroids. These medications help to reduce inflammation, control infection and slough off dead skin to promote healing and minimize the risk of razor bumps in the future.
Prevention
Because black men have very curly hair, taking steps to prevent razor bumps is important. Applying a wet compress with hot water for at least five minutes to soften the skin, using a single blade razor and applying shaving gel as lubricant are steps that minimize the risk of razor bumps. When you shave, go along with the natural grain of the hair, which is usually from the top of the face to the bottom. On the cheeks, you will have to angle the razor from the center of your face to the jaw, still in a downward motion.
Warning
Black men are more susceptible to hyperpigmentation and permanent scarring as a result of razor bumps. Hyperpigmentation is a darkening of the skin that is often associated with chronic ingrown hairs. Scarring is usually the result of scratching razor bumps, which can introduce bacteria into the area. The bacteria can cause an infection, which causes scarring. Applying anti-itch cream to the razor bumps can help reduce the itching. An antibiotic ointment can help minimize the risk of infection.
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