You do not want to grow a beard, but every time you shave your face, you are left with unsightly bumps. They turn red and start to itch, and the more often you shave, the worse they get. These rash-like bumps are commonly known as "razor burn," and they result from ingrown hairs that irritate and inflame your skin. Take steps to treat these bumps on your face and prevent new ones from forming.
Definition
Razor burn, or pseudofolliculitis barbae, is a type of skin condition called folliculitis, which is characterized by irritated hair follicles. After you shave, your hair starts to grow back, and if it curls in on itself, it gets trapped under your skin and causes a bump to form. These bumps are often itchy and red, and they are more common among those with curly hair. They are not typically dangerous, but if you do not treat them properly, they can become infected.
Treatment
Allow your hair to grow out fully, and wait for any bumps to disappear before you attempt to remove your hair again. Each night, wash your face with a mild cleanser and then wipe a medicated pad or lotion that contains glycolic or salicylic acid on the affected area. The website DermNet NZ states that this will get rid of the upper layer of your skin and help your razor bumps clear up more rapidly.
Prevention
When you resume shaving, first apply a soothing shave gel. Use a clean, sharp, single-blade razor, and shave in the direction your hair grows instead of against it, which will lessen your chances of irritation. Try to reduce the frequency with which you shave to every other day, and buff your skin lightly with a wet wash cloth each night to help loosen any hairs that are growing back. Continue to apply the glycolic or salicylic acid lotion once a day to prevent ingrown hairs from forming.
Considerations
If these at-home treatments do not work, consider alternate types of hair removal. MayoClinic.com recommends using a chemical depilatory, which dissolves your hair below the surface. However, because this product may irritate your skin, test it on a small area first before applying it to your entire face. Follow the instructions on the product carefully, and do not use it on broken or inflamed skin.
Warnings
Do not pick at, squeeze, scratch or pierce any ingrown hairs. This can cause a bacterial infection, scarring or hyperpigmentation. See a doctor if your razor burn does not subside within two weeks. He can discuss alternative hair removal methods with you and help you determine which will work best for your skin and hair type.
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