Razor bumps are caused by hairs that grow back into the skin, which are also referred to as ingrown hairs. Hairs that spiral more tightly are especially prone to develop into razor bumps, because after shaving they can spiral tightly back down toward the skin and grow into the skin. Discoloration of the razor bump can occur as the skin bruises. Razor bumps can be a source of embarrassment, because they can appear to be a case of acne, especially if there are multiple razor bumps grouped together. Healing razor bumps involves changes to shaving techniques.
Step 1
Avoid using alcohol-based products on the skin that's being shaved and has razor bumps. Alcohol tends to dry the skin and hair, which defeats the purpose of shaving cream, which is a moisturizing agent.
Step 2
Wash the skin with warm water and exfoliate the skin prior to shaving. This helps to cleanse the skin of dirt and other environmental factors such as bacteria, which can enter pores during the shaving process. Exfoliation also removes dead skin cells, which helps to expose ingrown hair for shaving.
Step 3
Use shaving cream when shaving. This helps to soften the skin and the hairs, making the hairs easier to remove and making the skin easier to shave.
Step 4
Wash the skin after shaving, but do not use aftershave products that contain alcohol.
Step 5
Avoid shaving for as many days as possible. Shaving can produce new razor bumps. Between shaves, exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells.
Tips and Warnings
- Use slow movements when shaving to help avoid cutting the skin. Shave in the direction of the facial lines and hairs when possible to help avoid hairs springing back toward the skin. Razors with multiple blades can provide closer shaves and reduce the number of strokes that need to be made.
- Plucking the ingrown hairs can inflame the skin and make the appearance worse.
Things You'll Need
- Exfoliant
- Moisturizing soap
- Washcloth
- Shaving cream
- Razor
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