Razor bumps on men, known as pseudofolliculitis barbae, are caused by shortened hairs that curl back and grown into the skin, rather than out of it. This causes red, inflamed bumps that can be painful and unsightly, especially when found on the face. You can get rid of them by removing the hairs, and preventing them so that they don't come back the next time that you shave. The razor bumps will need time to heal completely, so if you can, avoid shaving for a few days to give your skin ample time to heal.
Step 1
Apply a warm compress to the affected areas by running a washcloth under hot water and holding it onto your face. Leave the warm compress on for at least a minute. This gives the pores a chance to open so that the ingrown hairs are easier to pull out. This also will soften the hair so that it slides out more easily, according to Menscience Androceuticals.
Step 2
Locate one of the bumps on your face or neck, which are the most common places to get razor bumps. Find the small loop of hair that indicates an ingrown hair. Insert the tweezers into the loop, and swiftly pluck the hair out. You may see pus drain out of the bump; this is normal because razor bumps often become infected.
Step 3
Remove all of the ingrown hairs this way. Apply a hydro-cortisone cream to the affected area. This will reduce swelling, redness and itchiness. Resolve to not touch the area for a day or two while it heals. It helps if you can put a bandage over the affected area so you aren't tempted to pick or scratch the healing bumps.
Step 4
Avoid shaving for a few days to allow the area to heal. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology notes that the only sure way to get rid of razor bumps is to stop shaving altogether to give them time to heal. Otherwise, each time you shave you are running the risk of getting more razor bumps.
Step 5
Reduce your chances of getting razor bumps the next time that you shave by using a fresh razor with sharp blades. This cuts the hair more cleanly, and reduces the drag that can force small hairs back into the surface of the skin. Remember to always shave in the direction of the hair growth and use a good-quality, moisturizing shave gel to keep skin hydrated and reduce drag from your razor.
Things You'll Need
- Warm compress
- Tweezers
- Hydro-cortisone cream
- Sharp razor
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