Blue Oil For Bumps After Shaving

A little amber vial of blue oil may look like an alchemist's potion, but the liquid can effectively soothe the modern malady known as shaving bumps. Blue oil, also called German chamomile essential oil, possesses antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. These therapeutic properties make blue oil useful for treating conditions like shaving bumps and eczema. Blue oil treats the bacteria which causes the outbreak while also reducing swelling and providing relief from pain and itching.

Problem

Shaving bumps are a kind of superficial folliculitis sometimes known as barber's itch or bikini bumps. The condition occurs on the face and neck of men and on the inner thighs of women. Removing hair in these delicate areas may result in small wounds which become infected with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The bumps are often small, filled with pus and either red or white. The bumps and surrounding skin may be itchy, tender or even painful.

Definition

Blue oil is also known as chamomile essential oil. Two main types of chamomile exist: the German, or annual, chamomile and the Roman, or perennial, chamomile. German chamomile contains a beneficial compound called azulene, which gives the oil its distinctive blue color. A third variety, Moroccan chamomile, is also blue and contains azulene, but is less commonly sold in health food stores. To create chamomile essential oil, producers steam distill or chemically extract the essence of the daisy-like flowers. This extremely concentrated liquid often comes in small vials. Look for the label "blue chamomile" or "German chamomile." Roman chamomile also contains healing properties, but the blue version works best on external skin irritations like shaving bumps, notes aromatherapy author Jeanne Rose.

Direct Application

Most essential oils are too potent to apply directly to the skin, notes the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. Yet blue oil, along with lavender and tea tree oils, are effective against bacteria and fungi while remaining gentle on human skin, says Rose. Blue oil may be dabbed onto the affected area without diluting in a base oil or water. Put one or two drops on a cotton ball and gently rub the chamomile over the shaving bumps once or twice a day. If you do find direct contact to irritate your skin, either avoid using blue oil or dilute it in a carrier oil.

Poultice Method

The Mayo Clinic reports that a warm compress may provide relief for folliculitis by opening up clogged pores and releasing pus. To extend the healing properties of the compress make an herbal poultice by adding one or two drops of blue oil in a small basin of warm water. Dip a clean compress or washcloth in the basin, wring it slightly and gently press the herbal poultice over the affected areas. Apply the poultice several times a day if needed.

Ointment

You may prefer the ease of application offered by a skin salve. To create your own blue oil salve, gently heat 3 oz. olive oil and 1 oz. grated beeswax until the beeswax melts. Remove from heat, pour in ¾ tsp. blue oil -- pour the mixture into a wide mouth jar to solidify. Cover to store.