Red bumps can form almost anywhere you shave. On your bikini area, red bumps are often a sign of an ingrown hair that results from close shaving on sensitive skin. Hair follicles infected with bacteria can lead to folliculitis, a condition also called "hot tub" folliculitis or "barber’s itch," explains MayoClinic.com. Pseudofolliculitis barbae, also referred to as "razor bumps," is another common cause of red bumps from shaving, and it often appears on men’s cheeks, chins and necks. In many cases, you can prevent red bumps and irritation by practicing good shaving habits and skin care.
Step 1
Wet your skin with warm water and apply a moisturizing shave gel before shaving to help protect and hydrate your skin.
Step 2
Use a sharp, clean disposable razor every time you shave. Old, dull blades can irritate your skin and lead to nicks and cuts that make you more susceptible to folliculitis, explains MayoClinic.com.
Brands that have three to five blades and a moisturizing strip are the best at preventing irritation and minimizing problems in men who suffer from pseudofolliculitis barbae, according to Milton Moore, M.D., a dermatologist in Houston, Texas.
Step 3
Shave in the direction of hair growth to help prevent red bumps and skin irritation, recommends KidsHealth.
Step 4
Opt for an electric razor instead of a manual one if you have problems with red bumps. Electric razors are not as accurate as a standard razor, and they often do not provide as close a shave, but they can protect you against cuts that could lead to folliculitis, and they leave facial hair longer, helping prevent razor bumps.
Step 5
Spread a moisturizing lotion or aftershave over your skin after shaving to prevent irritation and bumps. This softens the hair and reduces your risk of infection, explains Nanette Silverberg, M.D., an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia University.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor about long-term or permanent hair-removal solutions, such as laser hair removal, if you have persistent problems with red bumps and irritation from shaving.
- Some types of folliculitis can be serious. Talk to your doctor if you have large, pus-filled blisters or if your skin is extremely tender, swollen or painful, cautions MayoClinic.com. Your doctor can prescribe oral or topical medications to help clear up the infection.
Things You'll Need
- Shave gel
- Disposable razor or blades
- Electric razor (optional)
- Lotion or moisturizer
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