Razor bumps are painful red bumps that occur after shaving as a result of ingrown hairs, according to the Mayo Clinic. Women most frequently experience razor bumps on the legs and in the armpits and bikini area. Changing your shaving routine can help reduce your chances of getting ingrown hairs. If you still experience razor bumps, try a few treatments at home to reduce swelling and pain, or see your doctor to determine a treatment plan.
Prevent Razor Bumps
Step 1
Bathe before shaving. The Mayo Clinic says that washing your legs or bikini area in warm water before shaving softens the hair and reduces your chances of getting ingrown hairs.
Step 2
Buy a lubricating shave gel at the drugstore to use when shaving your legs, bikini area and armpits to prevent bumps. Evelyn Placek, a New York dermatologist, suggests applying shaving gel after bathing and leaving it on for a few minutes before shaving to soften hair.
Step 3
Use a sharp razor. The Mayo Clinic says that women should use a single-blade razor to prevent ingrown hairs. If you experience frequent bumps after shaving, try an electric razor or chemical-based hair removal system to get rid of hair.
Step 4
Shave in the direction of hair growth. Women should shave their legs in a downward direction, according to the Mayo Clinic. Shaving with hair growth will help your hair grow back in the correct direction and prevent razor bumps from forming.
Step 5
Treat your skin after shaving. The Mayo Clinic suggests applying cold compresses to your skin after shaving to soothe the skin and prevent ingrown hairs. D'Anne Kleinsmith, a dermatologist in Michigan, recommends applying lotion to your skin after shaving to prevent irritation.
Treat Razor Bumps
Step 1
Treat red razor bumps using over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. Placek suggests applying a 1 percent hydrocortisone cream to inflamed areas after shaving to reduce bumps. Use hydrocortisone as a short-term treatment only. Applying hydrocortisone cream to your skin every day could cause your skin to become even more irritated.
Step 2
The Mayo Clinic suggests releasing ingrown hairs that cause bumps under the skin by washing the area with warm water. Use a soft toothbrush or washcloth to gently rub the area where razor bumps are present.
Step 3
Placek says that acne medications that contain benzoyl peroxide can be used to treat razor bumps. Use acne medications topically on affected areas to treat and prevent painful ingrown hairs.
Step 4
If you experience severe razor bumps that do not go away after a few days, or if your bumps look infected, see your doctor for treatment. For extreme cases of ingrown hairs, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics.
Things You'll Need
- Warm water
- Shaving gel
- Sharp single-blade razor or electric razor
- Moisturizer
- Cold compress
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Washcloth or soft toothbrush
- Acne medication that contains benzoyl peroxide
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