If you’ve ever shaved, you’ve probably experienced razor bumps. These itchy and sometimes painful little bumps are hairs that become trapped under the skin or curl and turn back into the skin. People with curly facial hair are far more likely to develop razor bumps because curly hair has more of a tendency to turn back into the skin. However, razor bumps are still common regardless of your hair type or where you shave, wax, or tweeze. Basically, shaving the wrong way or too often simply upsets our sensitive skin. Prevention is key, but if you are subjected to razor bumps, there are remedies that can help speed up their quick departure. How do I prevent razor bumps?

• Frequently change your razor blades - Make sure your blade is always sharp. A sharper blade gives an easier and better shave (be careful!)
• Opt for an electric razor - If you would rather avoid getting too close to the skin or are worried about shaving incorrectly, try an electric razor. These razors don’t get quite as close to the skin, so you may not get as good of a shave, however, this could help prevent the pesky razor bumps.
• Go with the grain! - This rule doesn’t just apply to sanding wood. Please shave in the same direction the hair grows. Shaving against the hair growth is extremely irritating to the skin.
• Bubble up - Use a soap with a rich lather. If you are shaving a beard or neck (or even elsewhere) this Canadian Glacial Clay Soap is perfect. Use a wet shaving brush to work up a lather, apply, and shave. You can also use a moisturizing bar soap.

• If you already have razor bumps, here are four remedies to help with treatment.

• Exfoliate - This is something we highly recommend just as a good skincare practice. Exfoliating is beneficial in preventing and treating razor bumps because it removes any dead skin and build up on the skin. By removing that buildup, it can help prevent hairs from getting trapped beneath and causing inflammation. Exfoliate 2-3 times a week with the Oshun’s Skin Food, Ph7 Facial Scrub, or Moroccan Argan Nut & Rose Velvet Scrub.
• Steam with Tea Tree Oil - Tea tree oil is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, so this is a wonderful ingredient to treat razor bumps. Healthline.com recommends combining this essential oil with the power of steam to soften the trapped hairs and loosen them. They suggest mixing 10-15 drops of tea tree oil with warm water, then soak a washcloth in the mixture and wring it out. Lay your towel over the affected area for up to 30 minutes. Repeat as needed. Short on time or just looking for the soothing benefits of tea tree? A Tea Tree Hydrosol is a great way to quickly apply tea tree oil and reap the benefits. Simply spray the affected area as needed.
• Calm the Skin with Aloe Vera - This plant is renowned for its ability to heal, soothe, and moisturize the skin. The Cape Aloe Vera Gel is strong and effective. Apply aloe vera to the area morning and night to relieve razor bump pain and to reduce inflammation.
• Cleanse with African Black Soap - African Black soap is wonderful for its anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory benefits. This soap is beneficial because of its many benefits to the skin, but is also another way to exfoliate which, like mentioned earlier in the post, is very important for treating and preventing razor bumps. Incorporating black soap into your routine can be beneficial for many other skin concerns such as treating acne and scarring, improving skin texture, and more. Just make sure you use it sparingly and moisturize well if your skin tends to be dry.

If you’d like more information on the treatments or products discussed, send us an e-mail, give us a call or stop into our Reisterstown store. We are always happy to answer questions and recommend products that will be most beneficial to you based on your skin type.

Sources:

https://getbevel.com/bevelcode/basics/what-are-razor-bumps

https://www.healthline.com/health/razor-bumps#home-remedies

https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/african-black-soap-benefits#fine-lines-and-wrinkles