Razor bumps, also called ingrown hair, occur when tweezed or shaved hair grows back into the follicle. This causes redness, inflammation and discomfort at the site of the razor bump. To prevent infection and relieve any pain, you can try several different treatment methods. Speak to a doctor if you notice any pus at the site of the razor bumps.
Effects
When you have curly hair, you are at a higher risk of developing razor bumps. This type of hair has a tendency to curl back and grow directly into the shaft after shaving or tweezing. Once the hair penetrates the surface of the skin, the immune system reacts as if it is a foreign body.
Expert Insight
According to the Discovery Health website, glycolic acid lotion may help razor bumps. At the Henry Ford Medical Center in Detroit, Michigan, a clinic trial found that using glycolic acid twice a day resulted in all 30 test subjects experiencing 60 percent fewer razor bumps. Lotions with glycolic acid as an active ingredient are available over the counter at pharmacies.
Solution
The Mayo Clinic recommends releasing the hair from the follicle to find relief from the skin condition. Using a sterile needle, you may place it into the follicle and position it under the loop of the hair. Gently lift the tip of the needle until the hair is no longer embedded into the skin. A less invasive approach to get relief from razor bumps is to massage the affected area in a circular motion for several minutes each day.
Considerations
Medications are available for the treatment of razor bumps. Besides an antibiotic cream to prevent infection, steroid creams are often used to reduce any inflammation. Your doctor may give you a prescription for a topical retinoid. This derivative of vitamin A sloughs off dead skin cells that may get lodged in the hair follicles.
Prevention
Changing the method that you use to remove hair may help with the prevention of razor bumps. Laser hair removal, electrolysis and depilatories are some options to consider if you are prone to the skin condition. Removing hair with an electric razor using a shaving gel is another prevention method for razor bumps. While shaving, move the razor in the direction of the hair growth pattern and never pull the skin taut.
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