Razor bumps are most often caused by razor burn or ingrown hairs, both manifesting in swollen red bumps that appear after shaving. Either way, razor bumps are unsightly and often painful. Luckily you can stop razor bumps by taking a few precautions before you shave. The right technique will also help you to avoid getting razor bumps. You should be able to get a smooth look with the right combination of exfoliation, moisturizing and proper shaving techniques.
Step 1
Exfoliate the area that you wish to shave. Exfoliating sloughs off the dead skin cells that can cause extra drag on your razor, clog pores and result in bumps. If you don't have an exfoliating wash handy, mix a paste of sugar and olive oil and rub gently on your skin to leave it smooth and ready to shave. Using warm water will also help to soften the hair in preparation for shaving, notes DailyGlow.com.
Step 2
Use a brand new razor, especially when shaving areas where you tend to get razor bumps, like the bikini area and the neck. A new razor is sharper, and results in a clean cut. Older, duller razors can tear at the hair, resulting in ingrown hairs that are pushed back into the skin.
Step 3
Apply a good-quality shave cream for sensitive skin before you begin shaving. Shaving cream acts as a barrier or moisturizing cushion between your skin and the razor blade. Soap just doesn't work up a thick enough lather. Never shave with only water; you're sure to get razor burn.
Step 4
Shave in the direction of hair growth, says Columbia University's "Go Ask Alice" columnist. While shaving against the grain may net you a closer shave overall, it also pulls the hair in the wrong direction and can irritate your skin. Never pull the skin taut while shaving either; it will cut the hair too short and make you even more prone to ingrown hairs.
Step 5
Switch to an electric razor over a manual one. Electric razors typically don't cut the hair as short as a manual one, therefore resulting in less ingrown hairs and razor burn. You'll also be able to skip the shaving cream with an electric razor, saving you time while keeping your skin protected.
Things You'll Need
- New razor
- Shave cream
- Electric razor
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