Razor bumps can be more than an unpleasant nuisance -- allowing them to go untreated can lead to scarring, and the bumps can get infected. Anyone who shaves can get razor bumps, but it mostly affects people with tightly curled hair. Up to 60 percent of black men suffer from razor bumps caused by shaving facial hair, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.
Cause
Razor bumps occur after shaving when the cut hair curls and grows back into the skin, causing inflamed red bumps. Bacteria can infect the hair follicle, which can make the bumps itchy and more inflamed; small, pus-filled blisters often develop.
Types
Razor bumps on your face are known as psuedofolliculitis barbae. Razor bums in the pubic area are called psuedofolliculitis pubis. When the razor bumps get infected, the condition is referred to as folliculitis, or barber's rash.
Treatment
To treat razor bumps, do not shave for three to four weeks. This allows the hair to "spring out" of the hair follicle, according to Columbia University Health Services. To reduce inflammation, apply a mild topical corticosteroid cream. Prevent the bumps from developing into folliculitis by applying benzoyl peroxide to the bumps. This reduces the bacteria. Apply the cream sparingly if you have sensitive skin.
Prevention
By prepping your skin and shaving correctly, you can prevent razor bumps. Use warm water to soften your skin and hairs before shaving. You can do this by taking a shower right before shaving, as well as by applying a shaving product and waiting for a few minutes to let it soften the hair. Consider using an electric razor and an aftershave product designed to combat razor bumps. Look for products that are less drying and alcohol-free and that contain menthol, propylene glycol and moisturizers.
Watch Out
If you try to get a very close shave by shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth, stretching your skin taut or using a razor with multiple blades, you are likely increasing your chances of getting razor bumps; these methods cut the hair beneath the skin line and make it easier for the hairs to curl back into the skin.
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