Razor bumps are more common than you think and they can be annoying, painful, and at the same time, unsightly. Razor bumps usually happen when there’s too much pressure on the skin and can be caused by a number of factors. In some cases, they can happen after a haircut. But before you blame your barber, check out this article and learn how to avoid the bumps.
What are razor bumps?
Razor bumps are small, red bumps on your skin that occur after you shave. They’re caused by friction and often happen when you shave against the grain of your hair. The friction can also be caused by shaving too close to the surface of your skin. Ingrown hairs are caused by hair growing into the skin and becoming trapped, while razor bumps are caused by friction between your skin and the razor blade when used improperly.
The common causes of razor bumps include:
- Using an incorrect blade (such as a cartridge)
- Shaving with an electric shaver or manual razor
- Using a dull razor blade
- Shaving in the same area multiple times in a row
See also: 7 beard benefits of Vitamin E
Razor bumps are not the fault of the barber
If you’ve ever had razor bumps, you know how uncomfortable they can be. so here are 7 ways to prevent them:
- Clippers should be used in the direction of hair growth.
- Use clean clippers and blades to avoid bacterial and fungal infections.
- Rinse your scalp with cool water to soothe inflammation.
- Scrub the affected areas with antibacterial soap
- Apply soothing oil or moisturizer on your scalp and hair
- The use of warm compresses should be applied to any nicks or bleeding bumps.
- Hold off until any current infections or pus-filled lesions have healed before getting a haircut.
How to treat razor bumps
If you already have razor bumps, the most important thing you can do is avoid shaving for a few weeks. This will allow the skin to recover. You can also apply topical treatments containing organic ingredients, such as an ointment or cream. If you want to shave again, get a new razor and change your routine so that you don’t shave against the grain of your hair.
Wash your face with cold water after shaving to tighten the pores, and use an aftershave lotion or balm with aloe vera or Maneuver’s Razor Bump Spray for soothing relief from razor burn and pimples. Razor bumps are a minor skin condition that can be readily treated at home. Put these into practice.
Feature image by RODNAE Productions