Grooming
How To Get Rid Of Razor Bumps For Good
If you’ve ever had to shave your face (or any part of your body, for that matter), chances are you’ve encountered a razor bump or two at one point or another. Razor bumps, also known as ingrown hairs, can be annoying little things. They are essentially little pimples that develop after shaving, when hairs become blocked and curl in on themselves when they begin to grow back in.
While common, razor bumps can be irritating, painful, and even cause scarring. If you’ve fallen victim to them and you’re ready to nip those suckers in the bud, follow some of these trusted tips on how to get rid of razor bumps.
Table of Contents
Create a Pre-Shave Routine
It may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but the key in knowing how to get rid of razor bumps and ingrown hairs actually starts before you even begin to shave. Taking preventative steps might sound a little time-consuming, but cementing a routine to follow before your razor touches your face can change the game. A pre-shave routine should include things like washing your face with a gentle cleanser, steaming your skin, and using a pre-shave oil or butter. Each of these things will soften the hairs, your skin, and prep your pores for the shave. These steps can be extremely helpful in preventing irritation.
Work Up a Lather
Choosing the perfect shaving cream for you is another important pre-shave step. There are several types, including cream, gel, and foam, among others. Shaving cream is a no-brainer when discussing how to get rid of razor bumps. It helps to protect your skin and prevent irritation and inflammation by creating a shielding layer between your skin and your razor of choice. This reduces friction that would otherwise occur and cause razor bumps to form. It also helps to avoid cutting yourself while shaving—nobody wants that! Nicks and cuts can actually introduce bacteria into the skin which can create more pimples and bumps. No thanks!
Use the Right Tools
If we’re talking about how to get rid of razor bumps fast, finding and using the proper tools will make a world of difference. Selecting a razor specifically designed for sensitive skin is an obvious way to ease things up, but you can also simply switch from a multi-blade razor to a single blade. Fewer blades means less aggravation to the skin, which is what we’re going for. If you notice you need to minimize blade contact even further, consider switching over completely to an electric razor. Because the blades on electric razors don’t make direct contact with the skin, they’re a safer alternative that can still give you the close shave you’re looking for.
Don’t Skip Post-Shave Care
When most people consider how to get rid of razor bumps, this is often the part of the routine that gets the most attention—and for a good reason! What you do after a shave can alter your skin completely. Many men choose to gently cleanse their face a second time when they finish shaving, but simply splashing or rinsing your face with cold water can get the job done. Doing so will tighten your pores and prevent bacteria from getting in. Finally, you’ll want to apply a moisturizing after-shave lotion or balm. Avoid any products that are too harsh or stripping and grab one that’s made specifically for sensitive skin types. Using the right after-shave product will minimize inflammation, keep your skin hydrated, and reduce any problems that might pop up in your hair follicles.
Keep Up With Maintenance Between Shaves
While what you do before, during, and after a shave is important when you’re trying to figure out how to get rid of razor bumps on your face, regular maintenance between your shaving sessions is not to be skipped. Make a point to add a chemical exfoliator to your skincare routine. If used at least once a week, an exfoliating acid will help unclog your pores and prevent the build-up that blocks hair growth. Another useful method that can loosen up your hairs and prevent in-growns is applying a warm compress or steaming your face for a few minutes. Adding these simple things to your weekly routine will save you tons of time and effort when it comes time to shave.
Ask a Professional
Sometimes skin is just stubborn. If you’ve tried everything under the sun and you’re still struggling, a dermatologist can show you how to get rid of razor bumps. While natural methods are often enough, a visit to a skin professional who can provide you with sage advice or even medicated products is a great way to go as a last resort. Letting your razor bumps and ingrown hairs get out of control can lead to serious, sometimes irreversible scarring. Why not seek out help from a dermatologist before your problem gets worse than it needs to be?
FAQs
Although both are forms of skin irritation caused by shaving, they’re classified as different conditions. While razor bumps are the result of ingrown hairs, razor burn is simply a type of rash that can develop when you don’t prep your shave properly.
Both a manual razor and an electric razor can be used to maintain razor bump-free skin. Electric razors don’t provide as much contact with the skin, so they’re a guaranteed win. If you go the manual route, selecting a razor with a single blade is a good idea as multiple blades can irritate the skin more than necessary.
In some more severe cases, taking a break from shaving might be the best thing you can do for your skin. If you keep shaving over active razor bumps, you could just end up irritating them even more.