How to Eliminate Razor Bumps

Using a shaving brush to create a rich lather can help eliminate razor bumps.

Razor bumps are caused by ingrown hairs. Shaving creates a sharp edge on hair that can grow into the skin. The ingrown hair causes inflammation and swelling. Curly hair tends to cause more razor bumps because it curls into the skin after it has been shaved. Razor bumps are unsightly, but they can also be painful and can cause scarring of the skin. You can eliminate razor bumps by adding a few extra steps to your shaving routine.

Things You'll Need

• Silicon oil
• Glycerin-based shaving cream
• Single-blade razor
• Alcohol-free after-shave
• Alpha lipoic acid and glycolic acid lotion
• Rubbing alcohol
• Antiseptic

Instructions

1. Take a hot shower to open the pores and soften hair. Shave during or immediately after. Applying silicon oil before shaving will further soften the hair and prevent razor burn and irritation. Use a glycerin-based shaving cream and a shaving brush to create a rich lather. Avoid gel or foam shaving creams, which can close pores and stiffen the hair.

2. Shave the area with a single-blade razor. Move the razor in the same direction as hair growth to prevent ingrown hairs. Re-lather and shave in the opposite direction of hair growth for a closer shave, if desired. Do not apply pressure when shaving.

3. Rinse the shaved area with cold water. Apply an alcohol-free aftershave. Moisturize with a mixture of alpha lipoic acid and glycolic acid lotion. According to Nicholas Perricone, M.D., 80 percent of volunteers who used this mixture had a marked reduction in razor bumps. Apply the lotion after shaving and again before bed.

4. Clean the razor with rubbing alcohol after each use to prevent the growth of bacteria, which can lead to razor bumps. Change the blade weekly.

5. Apply an antiseptic to areas with razor bumps, razor burn or cuts to prevent infection. Do not squeeze or pick at razor bumps. Avoid rubbing or scratching the area. This can lead to infection and increase inflammation. It may also cause scarring.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider using a depilatory to remove hair and prevent ingrown hairs and razor bumps.

References

• Discovery Health: The Cutting Edge: Preventing Razor Bumps
• How to Get Rid of Things: How to Get Rid of Razor Bumps
• Skin Biology: Preventing Ingrown Hairs