Razor bumps, or shaving bumps, develop when strands of hair curl back toward the skin after shaving. People with curly hair, such as African Americans, are more prone to razor bumps than those with straight hair, but razor bumps affect people with all hair types. They may be painful and are prone to infection. In severe cases, razor bumps may lead to permanent scarring.
Step 1
Shave after showering or washing your face. Warm water and steam will soften the hair and open the pores on your skin, which reduces the likelihood of ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
Step 2
Use a thick shaving gel or cream to reduce friction and irritation. Shaving gel will also help your razor slide more easily over your skin, which will help ensure a straight cut. Hair cut at an angle is more likely to turn back toward the skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 3
Shave with the natural growth of your hair rather than against it. Do not shave over the same area more than once each day.
Step 4
Clean and sterilize your razor after every use to prevent razor bumps and bacterial infections. You can easily sterilize your razor by pouring rubbing alcohol over the blade after use. There is no need to dry the razor, as the alcohol will evaporate on its own.
Step 5
Apply a moisturizer after shaving to soothe irritation and help prevent razor bumps from forming.
Step 6
Shave every other day instead of every day if possible. This is especially important if you already suffer from a severe case of razor bumps. Shaving over razor bumps can lead to increased inflammation and irritation and makes it more likely your bumps will become infected.
Step 7
Keep your hands off your face and resist the urge to pick at or scratch your razor bumps, which can delay healing and lead to infection.
Step 8
Use warm compresses and topical antiseptics to treat existing razor bumps; this will help decrease inflammation and prevent infection.
Things You'll Need
- Shaving gel
- Rubbing alcohol
- Topical antiseptic
- Moisturizing lotion
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