Razor bumps: Tips to keep your skin smooth & clear

Razor bumps can be a pesky problem for many people, but with the right skincare routine, they can be managed and prevented.

In this article, we explore how razor bumps form, what skincare products and techniques can help prevent them, and how to keep your skin clear and smooth.

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What are razor bumps?

Causes inflammation and redness on skin. (Image via Pexels/Anna Tarazevich)

Razor bumps, also known as ingrown hairs, occur when hair curls back into the skin after shaving or waxing.

That can cause inflammation, redness and sometimes even infection. These are more common in people with curly or coarse hair but can happen to anyone who shaves or waxes.

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How to prevent it?

Exfoliate and moisturize your skin before shaving. (Image via Pexels/Cottonbro)

• Exfoliate: Regular exfoliation can help prevent ingrown hairs by removing dead skin cells that can clog hair follicles. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or a loofah before shaving to help unclog pores.
• Use a sharp razor: Using a sharp, clean razor can help prevent these bumps by cutting hair cleanly without tugging or pulling. If your razor is dull, irritation and ingrown hairs are more likely.
• Shave in the direction of hair growth: Shaving against the grain can cause razor bumps by pulling hair back into the skin. To reduce chance of ingrown hairs, shave in the direction of hair growth.
• Avoid tight clothing: Tight clothing can rub against the skin and irritate hair follicles, increasing risk of bumps. Wear loose, breathable clothing after shaving or waxing.
• Moisturize: Keeping the skin moisturized can help prevent shaving bumps by softening hair and reducing friction during shaving. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer after shaving or waxing to help prevent ingrown hairs.

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How to treat razor bumps?

To treat these bumps, you can use topical treatments, like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

You can also try over-the-counter medications like hydrocortisone and other anti-inflammatory creams. If they don't work for you, consult your doctor about other options, like prescription creams that contain retinoids or antibiotics.

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Tips for shaving with razor bumps

Always use a multi-blade razor. (Image via Unsplash/Nacho Fernandez)

1) Avoid hot water. Hot water can lead to irritation and razor bumps, so it's best to shave in lukewarm or cool water.

2) Use a moisturizing shaving cream or gel and not soap. Soap dries out the skin and make it more susceptible to ingrown hairs and irritation from shaving.

3) Use a sharp razor with multiple blades, which will give you a closer shave without irritating your skin as much as single-blade razors do.

4) After shaving your legs, apply an aftershave lotion containing aloe vera or witch hazel. These ingredients help soothe irritated skin while preventing infection by killing bacteria on contact.

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How to choose the right razor for your skin?

Choosing the right razor for your skin is important. (Image via Pexels/Sora Shinmazaki)

If you're looking for the best razor for shaving bumps, there are a few things to consider.

First, it's important to choose a single-blade razor over multi-blade razors. That helps prevent ingrown hairs from forming and causing irritation on the skin.

Second, look for razors with lubricating strips or moisturizing strips. These will help keep your skin hydrated while shaving so that it doesn't dry out too much during the process.

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Razor bumps and shaving bumps can be a real pain in the neck, but they're not something you have to deal with forever. If you follow the aforementioned tips and tricks, your skin will be smooth as silk in no time.