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If you shave regularly then you are no stranger to razor bumps. Razor bumps is a term used to describe the inflamed, bumps of ingrown hair on body parts that are shaved regularly. Medically known as pseudofolliculitis barbae, razor bumps can occur on the face, bikini area, legs, and other parts of the body that are shaved regularly.
It occurs when the shaved hair starts growing back. But instead of growing vertically out the follicle, the hair will curl into the skin, causing inflammation, skin sensitivity, and redness. If the razor bumps become infected, papules or pustules will start forming on the shaved area. Multiple razor bumps look unsightly too.
Unfortunately, once it develops, it is hard to remove the razor bump. So do not wait until the problem worsens before you do something about it. In today’s post, we are listing down simple tricks to avoid razor bumps after shaving:
Reduce Shaving Frequency
Shaving every day can be traumatizing on the skin. The constant tugging and shaving can cause skin irritation that will inevitably lead to razor bumps. Instead of shaving every day, try to reduce the frequency to every 2 to 3 days. Give your skin a chance to heal from shaving. You can also use a depilatory cream to prevent razor bumps, especially on the bikini area.
Warm Compress
Did you know that applying warm compress after shaving actually reduces the risk of razor bumps? The warm temperature opens up the pores, making it easier to shave the hair evenly. Applying heat on your face after shaving also soothes irritated skin. The warm temp discourages germs from spreading to your existing razor bumps, minimizing the risk of infection.
Healing Creams and Oils
Multiple patches of razor bumps are extra painful when fresh and very itchy once they are starting to fade. To reduce inflammation, itchiness, and redness, apply a little hydrocortisone cream directly on the bumps. The cream will heal traumatized skin, reduce redness and protect from skin infections. You can also use aloe gel and tea tree oil to soothe razor bumps and prevent infection.
Use Breathable Fabrics
If you have razor bumps in the bikini area, do not wear tight underwear made from synthetic material because it will only worsen the skin inflammation. Synthetic materials do not let moisture escape from the skin. When the inflamed skin is exposed to moisture, the risk of skin infection is very high. We recommend wearing undies made from natural materials. Undies made with cotton and bamboo silk are perfect if you have razor bumps in the bikini area because the materials are light and breathable. These materials also draw moisture away from the skin.
Exfoliate Before Shaving
One of the reasons why the hair curls inwards instead of shooting up vertically when it grows is the accumulation of dead skin cells on the epidermis. When dead skin cells accumulate on top of the skin, they seal the opening reserved for the hair. When the hair grows back, it cannot break through the barrier so it curls inwards on itself. As such, make sure to exfoliate the area before and after shaving to slough off dead skin cells.
