Shaving is supposed to make your skin look smooth and soft, but razor bumps can ruin it all. Razor bumps are also called razor burn. MotherNature.com explains that razor burn occurs from speedy and incorrect shaving techniques. The razor bumps appear from irritation of the skin from the razor. Essentially, the top layer of skin is partially sloughed off during shaving. Shaving over already irritated skin only increases the razor bumps. Making a few simple changes to shaving habits will help prevent future razor bumps.
Step 1
Run hot water over a washcloth. Press it on to your face, or the area you want to shave. For legs, soak in a warm bath for 10 to 15 minutes to soften the skin.
Step 2
Apply a generous amount of shaving gel, lotion or cream to the area. Lubricating the skin prevents friction from the razor, which is one cause of skin irritation.
Step 3
Wet a clean and sharp razor with water. Begin shaving in the direction of hair growth. Avoid taking strokes against the hair growth. Always use a sharp razor to reduce the number of times you will have to go over the skin.
Step 4
Rinse the skin well with warm water.
Step 5
Apply an aftershave balm or lotion to the skin to hydrate it. This will prepare skin for the next shave, in addition to improving the appearance of the skin after a shave.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply hydrocortisone cream to existing razor bumps to reduce redness and stinging after a shave, but do not use it daily. Skip shaving for a few days, if possible. This will allow the skin to heal and calm from previous irritation.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- Shaving gel, lotion or cream
- Sharp razor
- Aftershave lotion or balm
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