Razor bumps, also called pseudofolliculitis barbae and shaving bumps, are pustules that form when a hair becomes imbedded in the skin. The inflammatory reaction causes a sometimes-painful bump. Razor bumps are particularly prevalent among black males who shave and others with tightly coiled hair according to Crutchfield Dermatology. Razor bumps can be avoided and treated with a variety of options.
Step 1
Apply warm soap or penetrating shaving cream to soften the hair and make it easy to shave. Leave it on for a couple minutes before you start shaving, advises the American Academy of Dermatology,
Step 2
Use a single-bladed safety razor to shave. Run the razor in the direction of the hair growth. Don't stretch your skin taut when shaving. Instead, leave it naturally loose to prevent razor bumps.
Step 3
Dip a needle in alcohol to lift up ingrown hairs as they develop. You can prevent the inflammation by removing the stray hair before it irritates the skin. Slide the sterilized needle under the hair and lift out the loose end. Once you've lifted stray ingrown hairs, then you can shave.
Step 4
Rub a a washcloth or a toothbrush over your skin to rough up the top layer. This helps loosen the hairs that may be turning inward. Use warm water on the cloth or toothbrush and rub your face in circular motions just before shaving.
Step 5
Switch to an electric razor if you continue to get razor bumps. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, an electric razor doesn't shave as close as a straight razor and may get rid of the shaving bumps. Put the razor on the highest setting and run it over each patch of skin only once. Run the razor over skin lightly with little or not pressure.
Step 6
Visit your doctor for a prescription to heal current bumps. Ask for creams that contain glycolic acid or vitamin A derivatives. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, you may need antibiotics that you can rub on the skin surface or take orally to completely eradicate the existing bumps.
Tips and Warnings
- A slight shadow is stylish in some circles and, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, you'll have a better chance of getting rid of razor bumps if you don't shave every day. Try to shave only every other day or when important occasions require it. Visit a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to find out about laser hair removal. Hair can be permanently removed so that you can reduce the amount of shaving you need to the bare minimum. There are risks of side effects that could leave permanent scars.
Things You'll Need
- Safety razor
- Needle
- Alcohol
- Warm washcloth
- Electric shaver
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