No one enjoys rinsing off their morning shaving cream to reveal red, unsightly razor bumps. This pesky shaving side-effect can be uncomfortable and make you self-conscious as well. For some, shaving daily is a must, but you don't have to suffer from razor bumps. One tool in your clear-complexion arsenal should be a lotion containing glycolic acid.
Cause
Razor bumps most commonly occur after shaving on men's faces, especially African-American men and those with curly hair, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. The bumps are caused by individual hairs bending backward and becoming caught under the hair's follicle, according to Redbook magazine. Any place a razor haves is fair game for bumps, and a woman's legs, underarms and bikini line can also develop razor bumps after shaving.
Identification
Razor bumps are small, inflamed lumps. They may occur singly or in patches. They often feature a hard head, similar to a whitehead pimple. The bumps look like an acne breakout, as opposed to razor burn, which will be red or pink in color and feel raw.
Prevention/Solution
The simplest solution is to simply stop shaving to avoid ingrown hairs and the bumps caused by shaving. However, many people don't favor such an extreme solution. Another option is to shave less often, minimizing irritation and bumps to the face. If you work in a professional field that requires a clean-shaven look, take weekends off from shaving to let your face recover.
Treatment
If daily shaves are non-negotiable, invest in a glycolic acid product to help heal the skin. A study by the National Institute of Health shows that these lotions can improve the condition by 60 percent. Redbook magazine suggests adding a glycolic acid-containing shaving cream to your shaving routine as well. Glycolic acid products work by chemically exfoliating the skin and are a form of alpha hydroxy acid. Products that contain glycolic acid also assist in unclogging pores and revealing a new layer of skin, according to Glycolic Skincare.
Where to Get It
Glycolic acid lotions can be purchased at most major pharmacies for under $15. The strength tested by the NIH was a solution of 8 percent glycolic acid; this percentage is a good strength for someone just starting to use the potent exfoliant. Begin using one of these lotions daily to see some relief from razor bumps.
Member Comments