Red shaving bumps are actually ingrown hairs. When hair is removed close to the skin, it can curl back and breach the epidermis. The body's immune system responds by causing inflammation around the area of penetration, which takes the form of a papule or pustule that is pink to red in color. Shaving bumps, or pseudofolliculitis barbae, is most often a problem for people with curlier hair, but anyone who shaves, waxes or even tweezes can experience this form of folliculitis. Treatment involves a number of different methods, ranging from self-care to medical intervention.
Hair Growth
According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, a surefire method of curing red shaving bumps is to simply let the hair grow. By stopping hair removal, the hairs are no longer able to bend back and breach the skin. Even if someone is currently suffering from shaving bumps, he can see an improvement in the condition of his skin. When the hair is allowed to grow, the embedded tip can actually dislodge itself.
Manual Removal
The Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Dermatology agree that red shaving bumps can improve by manually dislodging the ingrown portion of the hair causing the inflammatory response. A toothbrush, needle or tweezers can all be used for this purpose. With a toothbrush, the bristles are gently rubbed over the papule or pustule to loosen the embedded hair. For a needle or tweezers, the exposed hair shaft is hooked and gently lifted to withdraw the tip from the skin.
Hair Removal Techniques
Red shaving bumps may also improve by changing the technique of hair removal. Many people see an improvement in their condition by switching from a razor blade to an electric razor, according to the American Osteopathic Colliege of Dermatology. Instead of waxing, people may reduce the chances of pseudofolliculitis barbae by using a depilatory. Even changing from a multi-blade razor to a single-blade razor can leave the hair longer, reducing the chances of shaving bumps.
Retinoids
To better manage the shaving bumps, doctors prescribe retinoids, which are derivatives of vitamin A that help to remove dead skin as well as reduce the inflammation and hyperpigmentation associated with this condition, advises the Mayo Clinic. It's applied directly to the areas prone to razor bumps each day.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is a form of alpha hydroxy that is said to improve the rate of healing, states the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. It can be found in prescription and nonprescription strength. However, those creams, available only by prescription, have a higher concentration of the acid and can work more effectively.
Antibiotics
Both the Mayo Clinic and the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology suggest using antibiotics to treat razor bumps caused by hair removal, especially when the papules are infected. This form of treatment is available both orally and topically and can be used in conjunction with other medications.
Corticosteroids
To reduce the inflammation of the papules or pustules, a corticosteroid can also be used, claims the Mayo Clinic. Daily application of a topical solution directly onto areas of inflammation can improve the appearance of the skin. But corticosteroids are only available with a prescription, so a consultation with a doctor or dermatologist is necessary.
Permanent Hair Removal
Red shaving bumps can also be cured by having hair permanently removed from the areas of skin prone to this condition, claims the American Academy of Dermatology. Permanent forms of hair removal include laser hair removal and electrolysis. Both methods damage the follicle, so it can no longer produce hair.
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