If your skin develops an irritation and hard bumps after shaving, you may have what doctors call pseudofolliculitis barbae. In this condition, hair grows back into the skin after shaving, causing the body's immune system to react as if the body was invaded. Inflammation and eventually hard bumps, called keloidal scarring, form at the site. The condition is most common (up to 60 percent) in African American men and people with very curly hair. Though it sounds serious, it is a minor skin condition that can be cured at home using a variety of approaches, though particularly stubborn cases may require a prescription-strength medication.
Step 1
Wash the affected areas with antibacterial soap twice a day, preferably in the morning and before going to bed. Alternatively, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the razor bumps. Follow the application suggestions on the particular brand of ointment you purchase. These can be effective home treatments for the condition.
Step 2
Try medications for stubborn cases of razor bumps that won't go away by using over-the-counter ointments. Prescription medication options include glycolic acid lotions--brand names include Neo-Strata and Alph-hydrox--and prescription antibiotic gels such as Benzamycin or Cleocin-T. Oral antibiotics can also be used, but talk to your doctor and follow her recommendations for your particular skin type.
Step 3
Use preventative measures. Apply a preshave solution such as Hydroglide (available at drug stores) to soften the hairs and use shaving gels instead of creams. Shave in the direction of the hairs' growth; follow up with a moisturizing aftershave. If you're using blades, switch to an electric razor, which doesn't shave as close as blades and doesn't leave the hairs as sharp, so they will be less prone to curve back and penetrate the skin as they grow.
Even if you already have razor bumps, these measures should improve the condition and may even cure it without resorting to medications. If you're prone to razor bumps, preventive measures will stop them from developing in the first place.
Step 4
Consider electrolysis or laser hair removal methods. When you've tried everything and you still regularly get razor bumps, laser hair removal or electrolysis may be your best bets. Just a few visits to a laser hair removal facility can completely get rid of pseudofolliculitis barbae.
Tips and Warnings
- For men, a surefire way to prevent razor bumps is to let the beard grow.
- Do not stretch your skin when shaving.
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