Razor rash, also called razor bumps or pseudofolliculitis barbae, occurs when shaved hair curls back toward and into the skin. The body's immune system views the hair as a foreign object and attacks it, resulting in inflamed, red, itchy bumps that are prone to bacterial infection. Disposable razors are more likely to cause razor rash, but electric razors, especially when used incorrectly, can also cause the condition. Curing electric razor rash involves giving the skin time to heal, treating infection as soon as possible, and learning proper shaving techniques to prevent a recurrence.
Step 1
Soak a small towel in hot water and place it against small area of razor rash. This will soften the hairs and make them easier to remove. Using a clean pair of tweezers, grab the hair as close to the bump as possible and pull it out of the skin. Then cut the hair as close to the skin as possible using a pair of small scissors.
Step 2
Let your hair grow out for at least three weeks if the rash affects a large area of your face or body. Columbia University explains that allowing your hair to grow out will encourage it to spring back out of the skin. Going without shaving will also give your skin time to heal.
Step 3
Apply an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream to combat inflammation, itching and pain while your hair is growing out. Benzoyl peroxide cream will help prevent and treat infection. If your rash covers a large area, occurs near your eyes or begins to blister, consult your doctor. You may require treatment with a prescription-strength topical or oral antibiotic.
Step 4
Prevent electric razor rash from recurring by using only sharp, clean blades, exfoliating your skin two to three times per week, using a shaving gel if the instructions included with your electric razor permit you to do so, and shaving in the direction of hair growth. The Mayo Clinic warns against using the closest shave setting on your electric razor, as this will increase your risk of developing razor rash.
Step 5
Speak with your doctor if your rash fails to heal or if you continue to experience electric razor rash even after changing your shaving technique. Your doctor may recommend using a depilatory instead of shaving. Permanent hair removal procedures, such as electrolysis and laser therapy, may be necessary in some cases.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply a small amount of tea tree oil to areas prone to electric razor rash immediately after shaving to soothe the skin and help prevent infection. Hudson's FTM Resource Guide explains that you should not have to press down forcefully when using an electric razor. If your razor does not remove your hair unless you press down, it is likely dull or dirty and requires cleaning or a blade replacement. Using a dull or dirty electric razor increases the risk of razor rash. Wait until at least 30 minutes after waking to shave. The skin becomes puffier during sleep, and waiting will give you a closer shave and decrease the likelihood of razor rash, according to Velvet Dragon.
Things You'll Need
- Small towel
- Tweezers
- Small scissors
- Over-the-counter corticosteroid cream
- Over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide cream
- Exfoliant
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