Razor bumps, burn or rash --- no matter what you call it, these little red bumps can turn smooth, freshly shaved skin into an itchy nightmare. The bumps are actually ingrown hairs that get trapped under your skin when they attempt to grow back. Everyone can get them, but people with coarse, curly hair or those with sensitive skin are more likely to be plagued, states MayoClinic.com. Resist the urge to squeeze and pick your bumps, which can result in scarring or even an infection, and instead, take steps to remove them safely and prevent more from forming.
Step 1
Get a soft toothbrush wet, and use it to gently massage the area where you have razor burn. The Mayo Clinic website explains that this will help exfoliate your skin and loosen any trapped hairs. Do this for a minute each night, and then wash your skin with a mild, soap-free cleanser. Rinse off and pat dry.
Step 2
Treat your razor bumps like pimples, notes "Elle" magazine. Apply a zit cream that contains salicylic acid to the affected area. This will also exfoliate your skin to free ingrown hairs, as well as get rid of any bacteria that may be exacerbating the irritation.
Step 3
Wait for the salicylic acid to absorb for about five minutes, and then apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. This product will reduce any redness and control itching, and this will help keep you from scratching, which can lead to scars. Smooth the cream over your razor burn and wait five more minutes before you put on pajamas.
Step 4
Talk to your doctor if these at-home remedies fail, if your razor burn persists for more than a week or if you think you have developed an infection. The Mayo Clinic website states that a physician can prescribe you antibiotics to help clear up the rash, as well as stop any infections you have acquired.
Step 5
Do not shave or remove your hair again until your razor burn has cleared up completely. Once it has, get your skin wet with lukewarm water, and apply a moisturizing shaving cream or gel. Do not tug on your skin, and do not shave against the direction of your hair's growth. Use a sharp, clean razor, and rinse off your skin when you finish.
Step 6
Apply an ice pack or cold washcloth to your skin to soothe any irritation. Keep this on for 10 minutes, and then smooth on the salicylic acid cream. Continue to apply the cream once a night to keep razor burn from cropping up.
Things You'll Need
- Soft toothbrush
- Mild, soap-free cleanser
- Salicylic acid acne cream
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Moisturizing shaving cream or gel
- Sharp, clean razor
- Ice pack
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