When you shave, your skin gets irritated. This irritation can lead to red bumps appearing on your skin. In some cases, the red bumps are caused by razor burn; however, ingrown hairs, pseudofolliculitis and folliculitis can also cause red bumps. In addition to the red bumps, you may notice pimple-like bumps. These bumps may itch or hurt. It is, however, possible to prevent all of these red bumps from occurring.
Step 1
Rub your skin in a circular motion with a soft toothbrush or washcloth to remove dead skin cells.
Step 2
Soak your hair and skin in warm water before you shave to soften the hair and skin. Dry shaving, according to the Nemours Foundation, contributes to red bumps after you shave.
Step 3
Apply shaving gel or cream to the area you are shaving. These products lubricate the skin and act as a protective barrier between the razor blade and your skin.
Step 4
Shave with a new razor moving in the direction the hair grows. Move over each strip of hair only once, and use a razor with one blade. Shaving with an old razor or a multi-blade razor, going against the grain of the hair, or going over each strip multiple times, will irritate the skin.
Step 5
Avoid pulling the skin when shaving, states MayoClinic.com. Also avoid pressing the razor into the skin. When you pull on your skin or press the razor into the skin, you actually pull the hair out of the follicle slightly so when you cut the hair with the razor, the tip of the hair moves below the skin line. As the hair grows up, you are at an increased risk of ingrown hairs.
Step 6
Decrease inflammation and irritation after shaving by applying a cool compress or soaking in a cool bath.
Step 7
Moisturize your skin. Dry skin is a common cause for red bumps appearing after you shave. Use a fragrance free moisturizer that is noncomedogenic or water-based. You can also use aloe vera. These products won't clog your pores.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't shave every day if you are prone to red bumps when you shave. Waiting at least one day between shaves or until the red bumps subside gives your skin time to heal from the irritation.
Things You'll Need
- Soft toothbrush
- Washcloth
- Shaving gel or cream
- Razor
- Moisturizer or aloe vera
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