Razor bumps is another name for an inflammatory condition known as pseudofolliculitis barbae. It results from shorn hairs curling back upon themselves. As the hair curls back, it penetrates the skin, triggering an immune response by the body that causes the formation of small papules. Though almost anyone can develop this skin condition, pseudofolliculitis barbae is predominately seen in African-American men. When razor bumps do develop, removal often begins with fairly conservative techniques before turning to more invasive practices and procedures.
Hair Growth
The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology maintains that the most effective way to remove razor bumps is to let the hair grow. Any areas of the skin that suffer from pseudofolliculitis barbae can experience an improvement by simply ceasing to shave or shear the hair. Allowing the hair to grow to a length that it can no longer curl back into the skin usually removes the razor bumps. Most people see a decrease in papules after three to four weeks.
Shaving
If you're unable to allow the hair to grow, you may then need to change the way in which you shave. For some people, simply changing from a razor blade to an electric razor can improve razor bumps, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is largely due to the fact that an electric razor doesn't provide as tight of a shave as a razor blade. You may also help to remove razor bumps from the skin by prepping the hair before shaving. This would include softening the hairs with a warm, wet washcloth, applying a shaving gel prior to shaving and always running the razor in the direction of the hair growth. As soon as you've finished shaving, it's recommended that you apply an aftershave cream that contains a moisturizer.
Depilatories
Depilatories are a method of chemically removing the hair from the skin. A cream is applied to the area of unwanted hair, dissolving the hair shafts. However, the chemicals used in these types of products may cause other skin irritations and can lead to a chemical burn, especially in those with sensitive skin. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, never apply a depilatory to any area of the skin currently suffering from razor bumps. It may exacerbate the condition.
Medications
If basic skin care doesn't show results, the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology recommends consulting a dermatologist. Chronic razor bumps may need to be treated with prescription medications. Antibiotics reduce inflammation and clear up any infections affecting the swollen follicles. You can also see an improvement in your complexion by using tretinoin creams.
Hair Removal
People suffering from chronic razor bumps may also benefit from hair removal. This is typically the final solution for treating pseudofolliculitis barbae. It typically entails either laser hair removal or electrolysis. Laser hair removal uses pulses of intense light to damage the follicle, causing it to go dormant. Electrolysis administers electricity directly into the follicle through a small needle. This is the only form of permanent hair removal.
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