Call it razor rash or razor bumps; regardless of the name you give it, it can be a painful problem! Want a mouthful? Call it pseudofolliculitis barbae. These small, irritated bumps can develop on the skin after shaving if the hair curls back on itself and grows into the skin. The irritation can lead to the development of pimples or even cause scarring.
Sorry, boys — razor bumps are more a problem for men than women. This is because men who choose to shave usually have to shave their faces every day; women can get away with shaving less frequently if they desire. You may not develop razor bumps everywhere you shave; certain places like your neck (for men) or the inside of your thighs (for women) may be more susceptible than others.
How do you prevent razor bumps from developing?
- Use a hair removal product instead of shaving every day. The downside to this is that depilatories should only be used once or twice a week.
- Think about laser hair removal or electrolysis for permanent hair removal. This may be more expensive and more time-consuming, but will save your skin from razor bumps in the long run.
- Try a nice hot shower before shaving to help soften the hair and open pores.
- Use a shaving gel or cream instead of plain old soap.
- Always shave in the direction the hair grows.
- Use the fewest strokes possible; going over and over a particular section increases your chance of developing razor bumps.
- Rinse with cold water to close the pores after shaving.
- Use a moisturizing lotion after shaving.
How do you treat razor bumps? You can address each hair individually: use a clean needle to free the hair that has grown into the skin. Giving your skin a break from shaving can make a big difference, too! The bumps may disappear if you take a few days off, but may reappear when you start shaving again.
Find more skin care tips from Familes.com!