Red bumps that appear on your bikini area are often the result of irritation due to shaving. This irritation ranges in severity from razor burn to a folliculitis infection that requires antibiotic treatment. There are steps you should take to prevent the chronic appearance of bumps; these steps include proper exfoliation and moisturizing. As with any unknown skin condition in your genital area, check with your doctor to ensure that you have not contracted a sexually transmitted disease or infection.
Step 1
Apply cortisone cream to the bumps along your bikini area if the bumps are due to razor burn. Razor burn results from minor skin irritation related to shaving and will go away on its own. The cortisone cream helps ease this irritation and speed recovery.
Step 2
Apply lotion containing glycolic acid to your bikini area if you are experiencing ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs result when coarse, curly hair, such as pubic hair, grows into the skin. This condition is referred to as "pseudofolliculitis," because it resembles a hair follicle infection. Wash your bikini area with antibacterial soap to reduce your risk of developing a true infection.
Step 3
Visit your doctor for an examination and an antibiotic prescription if your bumps are raised, painful pimples and do not show signs of improvement. It is likely that you have folliculitis, an infection of the hair follicles along your bikini area. Your doctor may prescribe an oral or topical antibiotic to treat the skin infection. Use the antibiotic as instructed by your doctor.
Step 4
Apply talcum powder to your bikini area to reduce further irritation regardless of your skin condition. Wear well-fitted undergarments to reduce chafing and friction along this sensitive area.
Step 5
Wash your bikini area with an exfoliating glycolic acid soap and shave with moisturizing shaving cream or gel to prevent the bumps from returning after they have healed. Apply a liquid or gel containing salicylic acid to keep your skin smooth and free of ingrown hairs.
Things You'll Need
- Cortisone cream
- Lotion and soap containing glycolic acid
- Antibacterial soap
- Talcum powder
- Topical or oral antibiotic
- Moisturizing shaving cream or gel
