American women often wax, shave or use depilatories to get rid of their underarm hair. Shaving is one of the quickest and easiest ways to remove armpit hair, yet it also can cause razor bumps. These small bumps show up when your skin is irritated by an improper shaving technique. Change the way you shave to help prevent armpit razor bumps.
Step 1
Look at the way the hair grows in your armpits. Every person’s hair grows in different directions. Most people’s hair grows downward, according to Columbia University’s Go Ask Alice! health answering system. Shave in the same direction that your hair grows to help prevent razor bumps.
Step 2
Soften the hair under your arms by applying warm water before shaving. If you shave in the shower, splash warm water under your arms and let it soak into the hair follicles while you shampoo and condition your hair. Warm water softens the skin so it's easier to shave. Layer on shaving cream or gel--this will moisturize the area and prevent irritation that leads to razor bumps. Use a sharp razor blade for a smoother shave. Change your razor blade once a week to help prevent razor bumps.
Step 3
Exfoliate your armpits once or twice a week using an over-the-counter exfoliating body wash. Exfoliating regularly removes dead skin cells and prevents hairs from becoming ingrown, according to DERMAdoctor.com.
Step 4
Apply an over-the-counter acne cream or lotion to your armpit area at the first signs of any underarm bumps. Use acne creams that contain such ingredients as benzoyl peroxide to reduce the amount of bacteria on the skin, recommends DERMAdoctor.com. Rub the over-the-counter acne cream directly on your underarms to reduce inflammation and redness.
Things You'll Need
- Razor
- Shaving cream or gel
- Exfoliating body wash
Member Comments