Razor bumps are raised areas on your skin that occur when cut hair curls and grows back into your skin. Razor bumps occur normally after shaving and when left untreated the bumps may be problematic each time your shave. In addition, the bumps are susceptible to infection, such as the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Many techniques are available to help reduce the risk of razor bumps, but if severe razor bumps are present, consult with your health care provider.
Step 1
Soak a washcloth in warm water and apply it to the skin on your legs before shaving. Adding the moisture to your legs helps soften the hairs and reduces the risk of irritating the skin, which causes razor bumps. In addition, you can take a warm shower or bath and shave afterward, when the hairs on your legs are soft.
Step 2
Apply a shaving cream that contains benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is a topical acne preparation that helps to reduce the dead skin cells that enter into the follicles causing razor bumps.
Step 3
Use a clean, sharp razor and shave in the direction that your hair naturally grows. Shaving in a downward motion and cleaning the razor in between strokes will reduce the risk of irritating your skin and hair follicles.
Step 4
Apply aloe gel to the legs after shaving. Putting a layer of aloe gel on the skin will help if the skin is inflamed or irritated after shaving. Aloe contains a healing agent that helps with skin irritation and burns.
Step 5
Use a moisturizing lotion as an alternative to aloe gel. You can moisturize the legs with an over-the-counter moisturizer to help add moisture back into your skin and reduce skin irritation.
Tips and Warnings
- A topical application of benzoyl peroxide cream, gel or lotion can be used as a long-term preventative treatment. Applying benzoyl peroxide daily will help to reduce the potential for razor bumps, according to Dr. Evelyn Placek, a dermatologist and doctor of internal medicine in Scarsdale, New York.
- Use your own razor. Sharing razors with other people increases the risk of developing razor bumps and infection. Consult with your health care provider prior to using any over-the-counter products to discuss any potential risks.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- Benzoyl peroxide shaving cream
- Aloe gel
- Moisturizer
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