Razor bumps can be extremely uncomfortable consequences of using a razor blade. But these bumps aren't a direct product of the blade itself--instead, they occur when a freshly cut hair follicle curls back toward the skin and grows into it, penetrating the skin and creating inflamed, sensitive skin that is extremely painful to touch. Bacteria and other infections worsen these bumps, which can last several days. These bumps can occur even if you're using an electric razor, but no matter how you shave, there are things you can do to eliminate razor bumps.
Step 1
Apply a hot compress using a soft cloth to the razor bumps two or three times daily. This will help reduce inflammation and pain, according to the website Daily Glow.
Step 2
Pluck the ingrown hair out of the skin with a pair of tweezers. This will immediately reduce some of the pressure and inflammation, although it will take time for the razor bump to completely recede.
Step 3
Apply an antibacterial skin cleanser or aftershave to clean out the wound. This will be painful, but it will attack any infection residing in the bump.
Step 4
Treat your razor bump with salicylic acid. This acid is found in some name-brand treatments like Razor Bump Relief and work by eliminating the layer of skin covering the bump, according to Modern Mom website. This helps dissolve the bump faster and free your ingrown hair, if you have not plucked it.
Step 5
Apply hydrocortisone daily. This medical ointment will help moisturize the skin while soothing the pain and inflammation.
Tips and Warnings
- If you frequently suffer from razor bumps, you should try shaving less regularly to lessen skin irritation. An alternative to shaving is using a depilatory cream to get rid of hair. These creams break down or remove hairs at the follicle with chemicals. You can purchase these over the counter, with companies like Nair having years of experience producing the product, or you can visit your doctor and try to get a prescription depilatory cream like Vaniqa.
- Never try to pop a razor bump. These aren't the same as pimples or blisters, and doing this will be extremely painful and prolong the life of the wound. Do not shave any areas affected by razor bumps when they are present on your skin.
Things You'll Need
- Soft cloth
- Tweezers
- Antibacterial cleanser or aftershave
- Salicylic acid
- Hydrocortisone
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