Pseudofolliculitis barbae is the medical term for razor bumps, a condition where hair grows back into the skin after shaving, causing the body's immune system to react with an inflammation and eventually the formation of hard bumps at the site. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, the condition is most common (up to 60 percent) in African-American men and people with very curly hair. The condition can be treated with a variety of approaches.
Step 1
Shave every other day, instead of daily. Skipping a day should improve the condition.
Step 2
Prepare for shaving. Apply a washcloth that's been soaked in hot water to your skin and leave it there for at least five minutes before shaving.
Step 3
Use moisturizers. Apply a preshave solution such as Hydroglide (available at drugstores) to soften the hairs, and use lubricating shaving gels instead of regular shaving creams. Shave in the direction of the hairs' growth, and follow up with a moisturizing aftershave.
Step 4
Try medications for particularly stubborn cases of razor bumps. These include glycolic acid lotions (brand names Neo-Strata and Alpha Hydrox, among others) and prescription antibiotic gels such as Benzamycin or Cleocin T. Oral antibiotics can also be used, but talk to your doctor and follow the recommendations for your particular skin type.
Step 5
Wash the affected areas twice a day with antibacterial soap. Alternatively, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the razor bumps. According to the Mayo Clinic, these can be effective home treatments for the condition.
Tips and Warnings
- Aveeno and Edge, two major shaving accessories manufacturers, have several products to help prevent and get rid of razor bumps, such as a special razor (PFB Bump Fighter Razor) and therapeutic shaving gels. Use an electric razor rather than blades.
- Do not stretch your skin when shaving.
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