When you shave, your razor takes a thin layer of skin along with it. Your body senses this removal of skin and treats it as it would a wound, notes Evelyn Placek, M.D., a dermatologist and doctor of internal medicine in private practice in Scarsdale, N.Y. Blood flow is increased, resulting in a red, irritated and bumpy appearance that can be unsightly, itchy and even painful. To remove razor bumps, you must aide your skin in the healing process for a smoother and healthier look.
Step 1
Moisturize immediately after shaving, every time you use a razor. This can help calm the skin and stop the bumps before they start. Try a cooling moisturizer that includes ingredients, like aloe and cucumber. Stay away from aftershave. The alcohol in the aftershave can actually aggravate your skin and cause it to become redder and bumpier.
Step 2
Crush two aspirins to a powder in a bowl and mix with enough water to form a paste. If you are treating a larger part of your body, crush more than two aspirins. Spread the mixture on the razor bumps. Wait for 30 seconds before you wash it off, suggests the Barbers Trade Secrets website. The aspirin acts as an anti-inflammatory to get rid of those red bumps after shaving.
Step 3
Spread a hydrocortisone cream on the affected area. Hydrocortisone helps to contract blood vessels and to reduce the red, bumpy appearance of your skin. It also helps with the itchy sensation you may feel after shaving.
Step 4
Wait until the razor bumps go away before you start shaving again. Shaving over red bumps from your razor can only make them worse--and add to your problems. If you have razor bumps, they are likely to disappear in a day or two. Wait until they are completely gone before you shave again, says the Head Shaver website.
Step 5
Take precautions before you begin shaving to reduce razor bumps in the first place. Use a new razor blade to reduce drag on the skin, which results in bumps. Make sure to use a good quality shave cream or lotion to act as a barrier between your skin and the razor blade. Always shave after your skin has been wet for a few minutes; this will help soften the hair so that you can use a lighter hand while shaving.
Things You'll Need
- Shaving cream
- Razor
- Moisturizer
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Aspirin
- Water
- Bowl
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