Razor bumps are very common for men with coarse or curly hair who decide to shave their heads. An estimated 30 to 40 percent of African American men who shave their heads might experience razor bumps, also known as pseudofolliculitis barbae. Prevention is the best cure, but if you already have razor bumps, there are remedies to help heal the irritation and stop it from happening again. If you're prone to razor bumps, consider waxing or using a depilatory cream which chemically dissolves the hair.
Step 1
Wet you hair and massage conditioner into your scalp for at least two minutes before rinsing to prepare your skin for shaving. Wet hair cuts easier and is more likely to give you a better shave.
Step 2
Sooth your scalp and reduce friction by using a non-alcohol based shaving cream with aloe vera. Leave the cream on for a few minutes before starting to shave. This will help soften the hair, making it less likely to curl back into the follicle and cause a razor bump.
Step 3
Shave in one direction only, going in the same direction the hair grows. Most of your hair point downward from the crown, so it's best to shave from top to bottom. Use smooth strokes with even pressure and rinse the blade in between each stroke.
Step 4
Use a mirror to see the back of your head, which is where the hair is generally thickest and you'll be prone to develop razor bumps. Take your time and go slowly.
Step 5
Apply a warm damp towel after shaving to relax your hair follicles. Then apply an aftershave lotion or a 1 percent hydrocortisone cream to get rid of redness and irritation.
Step 6
Wait 3 or 4 days before shaving your head again. If razor bumps occur, don't pick or squeeze them which may lead to an infection.
Tips and Warnings
- Several over-the-counter remedies that contain beta hydroxy acids, can help prevent ingrown hairs.
- If razor bumps get infected, see your doctor for an antibiotic cream to apply topically.
Things You'll Need
- Fresh razor with a single sharp blade
- Shaving cream
- Hair conditioner
- Aftershave gel or 1 percent hydrocortisone cream
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