Razor bumps: a rough road you can steer clear of

For anyone that has ever suffered from Razor Bumps, then you know how frustrating and painful it can be. It can be an embarrassing condition for those affected by it, and this is especially the case for men. Razor bump, or pseudofolliculitis barbae as it’s clinically called, is a condition of the hair follicle curling back into the skin causing irritation. They are not only irritating but can lead to infections as well. The good news is that with proper care, and by following a few tips, you can steer clear of this rough road and even go on to avoid future razor burn.

What Causes Razor Bumps?

Research attributes razor bumps to ingrown hairs. It can occur when the curly hair is trapped under your skin when growing back into the follicle then causing irritation and inflammation. If you have sensitive skin, you may also be more prone to ingrown hairs than someone with normal skin. Other causes of razor bumps include: (1) Using an incorrect blade (such as a cartridge); (2) Shaving with an electric shaver or manual razor; (3) Using a dull razor blade; & (4) Shaving in the same area multiple times in a row.

How To Avoid Razor Bumps?

Razor bumps are a common and pesky problem, especially for those who shave frequently. But how do you avoid razor bumps? It’s simple, moisturize the skin before and after shaving. This will help to lubricate the razor and reduce friction. This can be done by either using shaving cream or gel. Use a sharp razor as a dull blade will cause more irritation. Shave in the direction of hair growth as this will help to prevent ingrown hairs. Finally, rinse your razor after each stroke. This will remove any build-up of shaving cream or hair that could clog the blades and cause irritation.

How to Treat and Get Rid of Razor Bumps

Razor bumps can be extremely painful and embarrassing. They can even lead to scarring and permanent skin discolouration. This is why it’s important to treat razor bumps early on before they get worse.

Considering using a washcloth to soften the hairs on your face and let them slide out more easily. Tweezers are useful for removing any stubborn hairs that spring up unexpectedly. Using a soft beard brush will help brush out the trapped hair. The use of skin scrubs also exfoliates your skin, leaving it soft and smooth. If you have sensitive skin, go gently. In the case of severe acne, a dermatologist may recommend using a salicylic or glycolic acid lotion to help with exfoliating.

Feature image by Tima Miroshnichenko