Razor bumps on the neck are usually caused by hairs growing back into their skin folicles. This can lead to red and inflamed areas, or in some cases raised white lumps. Doctors refer to this as folliculitis or pseudofolliculitis barbae, according to the Mayo Clinic. People with dark, curly hair are particularly prone to the condition, including men with African-Caribbean roots. Getting rid of razor bumps involves using more gentle shaving techniques and possibly some topical treatments.
Step 1
Shave after showering, or apply a warm, damp towel to your neck and face for five minutes before you shave, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. This softens up your hairs and opens up follicles.
Step 2
Use a fresh, sharp razor. Blunt blades or clogged razors can aggravate sensitive areas and encourage razor bumps. Alternatively, use an electric shaver.
Step 3
Shave along the grain of your facial hair. Don't shave upwards and avoid stretching your skin tight. Shave with one clean stroke in each section, don't keep scraping over the same area.
Step 4
Apply balm such as oatmeal lotion or a moisturizer suitable for sensitive skin after shaving. Try lotions that contains aloe vera or similar soothing solutions.
Step 5
Wash your face and neck with anti-bacterial soap a couple of times a day, according to advice from the Mayo Clinic. In more severe cases, buy an antibiotic ointment.
Step 6
Buy cream from the drugstore that contains cortisone or retin-A. Apply according to the pack instructions.
Step 7
Let your beard grow for several weeks if the problem is severe. You'll notice the bumps decline as the hair springs out of the clogged follicles.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't shave neck areas that are red and sore. Use clean face towels to prevent spread of infection and bacteria. Use high-quality shaving cream, gel or foam. Never use standard soap for shaving.
- Visit your doctor if you experience soreness, bleeding or extreme redness around your neck long after shaving.
Things You'll Need
- Face towel
- Sharp razor
- Anti-bacterial soap
- Oatmeal lotion
- Cortisone cream
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