Psuedofolliculitis barbae, more commonly known as razor burn, is a negative reaction to the abrasive friction of a razor blade against the skin when shaving. There are many contributing factors that can cause these painful bumps and sores, with the most common one being shaving against the grain or direction of growth. Unfortunately, razor bumps cannot be avoided in the presence of a dull blade, even when shaving with the direction of growth. There are ways to more quickly dry out these bumps and heal skin irritation, so that you can shave the area regularly.
Step 1
Stop shaving. The first step to eliminating any current razor bumps starts with not making new ones. As bad as it may look to walk into work with stubble for a day, you may look even worse if you choose to continue to shave over these already-irritated and raised bumps. Shaving over them will just increase the time it will take for them to dry out.
Step 2
Keep your skin clean. Wash two to three times daily with an acne medication cleanser containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. These chemicals help cleanse any infectious bacteria from your pores, while also drying out any existing bumps. Use warm water to further expedite the drying of these bumps.
Step 3
Apply an acne spot treatment cream containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide two to three times daily after washing. This continues to dry out and diminish oil production in these bumps throughout the day. Avoid using any oil-based ointments on these bumps, as they can actually increase drying time due to increased oil content.
Step 4
Buy a new razor. Chances are that your old razor may not have as sharp a blade as necessary to prevent razor bumps from occurring.
Step 5
Resume shaving. Once you find that your bumps have healed, it is time to try shaving once again. However, even though those bumps may look like they have healed, it will not take much to flare them back up again. That is why shaving in the direction of hair growth, while using a new blade, is so important. Also, remember to use adequate lubrication with shaving cream. If you find that the shaving cream may be causing extra irritation, discontinue it immediately, and try a different brand.
Step 6
Repeat these practices, even in the absence of razor bumps. Treating razor bumps in a proactive manner can help prevent irritation over time. Shaving everyday can put a lot of stress on your skin. Preventing the buildup of this irritation is the key to dealing with razor bumps altogether.
Tips and Warnings
- It is important to remember that all people's skin is different. Just because your friend may be able to go longer without changing a blade does not mean you can, too. Respect your skin, and your razor bump problem will take care of itself.
Things You'll Need
- Acne medication cleanser
- Acne spot treatment
- Shaving razor
- Shaving cream
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