Razor bumps are most likely to occur on the face after shaving, tweezing or using other hair removal methods. However, these unsightly bumps can occur anywhere on the body where hair is removed. These bumps are actually a reaction to the hair entering the skin after curling under and are also known as ingrown hairs, according to Skin Sight.
Risk Factors
Curly hair is a risk factor for razor bumps in the hair because the curled hair follicle allows the hair to curl back around to the skin. African-Americans and Hispanics are more likely to have curved hair follicles. According to the Mayo Clinic, black men who are 14 to 25 years old are the mostly likely group to get razor bumps.
Symptoms
Razor bumps are actually red bumps that may be pus-filled. Itching and possibly pain are common symptoms of razor bumps. These symptoms are caused by the irritation of the hair curving under and reentering the skin, as an ingrown hair.
Prevention
One way to completely prevent getting razors bumps is not to shave, states the Mayo Clinic. However, if you must shave, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk of getting razor bumps. You can shave using a single-bladed razor with shaving gel and shave with the grain of your hair. Alternatively, you can shave with an electric shaver that is set on the second to lowest setting.
Treatment
While it is possible for some ingrown hairs to get better on their own, you may want to help the ingrown hair heal. You can place warm compresses on the affected areas to help speed the healing. If you can see the hair between the original hair follicle and the place where the hair has grown into the skin, you can use a needle to pull the hair out of the skin. If your razor bumps occur in the same area repeatedly, visit your doctor to determine if prescription medications are necessary.
Warning
Razor bumps sometimes contain embedded hairs. If this is the case, it is best to leave the razor bump alone and allow it to heal on its own. Trying to pick out an embedded hair puts you at risk of developing an infection. Additionally, if you have recurrent razor bumps on the same area, the skin may scar or darken.
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