Razor bumps are often a result of ingrown hairs, which curl after shaving and grow back into the skin. According to MayoClinic.com, these ingrown hairs may need to be released with a sterile needle. Another cause of razor bumps is actually razor burn, in which small razor cuts become infected by bacteria that invade the deeper hair follicles. Both razor burn and ingrown hairs can be treated at home, though you should visit a physician if you have a serious infection or are in pain.
Step 1
Wash the affected area and your hands for three full minutes with hot water and antibacterial soap. The hot water will open your pores, making removal of the ingrown hair easier.
Step 2
Disinfect an unused needle or unused pair of tweezers by pouring rubbing alcohol over them. Never touch your skin with a sharp implement that is not fresh out of the package. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that introducing a non-sterile needle into the skin can cause infection.
Step 3
Insert the tip of the needle or tweezers under the part of the hair that you can see, if your razor bump is caused by an ingrown hair. If the bump is completely closed and you cannot see hair, do not pick at your skin trying to find it.
Step 4
Pull straight up gently to release the hair from the skin.
Step 5
Spritz your skin with an anti-inflammatory spray or rub on a salicylic-acid based cream. Another option is to add a few drops of water to plain aspirin powder or a crushed, uncoated aspirin tablet and apply the paste to the bump. These remedies can also soothe razor bumps not caused by ingrown hairs.
Step 6
Prevent future ingrown hairs from forming by taking a hot shower right before shaving, using a thick shaving gel and fresh razor blade, and shaving in the direction of hair growth rather than against it. Exfoliating your skin just before shaving can also help prevent razor bumps from forming.
Things You'll Need
- Antibacterial soap
- Rubbing alcohol
- Unused needle or tweezers
- Anti-inflammatory spray
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