How do I prevent razor bumps on my face?

Why does a close shave cause bumps?

Razor bumps happen when cut hairs curl back into the skin or retract beneath its surface, causing inflammation. Coarse or curly hair is more prone to this. The medical name is pseudofolliculitis barbae. Unlike infected hair follicles, razor bumps are not primarily an infection, although both can occur together. A close shave is not the goal here, whatever the razor advert's job description.23

How should I shave to prevent razor bumps?

1. 1Soften the hair with warm water. Shave at the end of a shower or immediately afterward.
2. 2Apply a pre shave gel and leave it for about 30 seconds. Then apply fragrance free shaving cream and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes.
3. 3Follow the direction of hair growth in each area. Hair beneath the jaw can grow in different directions, so do not assume one direction works across your whole face.
4. 4Use short strokes with a sharp blade, preferably a single blade. Do not stretch your skin or press down with the razor. Use as few strokes as possible, avoid passing over the same area twice and rinse the razor after every stroke.
5. 5Rinse away the shaving products with lukewarm water. Hold a cool, wet cloth against your face to reduce irritation, then gently pat dry with a clean towel, leaving the skin slightly damp. Apply a moisturizer suited to your skin type.

Replace a blade that has rust, cracks or chips, tugs more than usual, or needs extra pressure to shave. Store your razor somewhere cool and dry. Avoid a second pass against hair growth: it gives a closer shave but increases the risk of ingrown hairs and irritation.5

What products help with razor bumps?

Start with shaving gel or cream and moisturizer rather than relying on soap and water alone. A moisturizer containing glycolic acid can exfoliate the skin surface and reduce new inflamed spots. For persistent bumps, a clinician can consider treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, a prescription retinoid or a steroid cream. Antibiotics are sometimes needed for infection. Hair removal creams are another option, but they can irritate skin.235

Can exfoliating prevent razor bumps?

Gentle exfoliation before shaving can remove dead skin and help prevent ingrown hairs; an exfoliating scrub can also help release trapped hairs. Scrubbing can worsen irritated skin, however, so do not scrub inflamed bumps.156

African black soap is an optional cleanser, not a compulsory casting choice for the bathroom shelf. Used before shaving, it can soften hair, and its oils and butters may soothe skin. Try a small area first, especially with dry or sensitive skin. Lather it in your hands instead of rubbing the rough bar on your face. Stop if it causes redness or irritation, and do not combine it with chemical exfoliants.6

How do I get rid of razor bumps?

Stop shaving, waxing or tweezing while the hairs grow out. Inflammation usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks to settle after stopping the hair removal that caused it. A warm water compress for 10 minutes can soothe the area and loosen crusts. Do not scratch, pick or squeeze the bumps, because this can damage skin and cause infection.123

When should I see a doctor?

Get medical help if a bump or the surrounding skin becomes very painful, hot or swollen, or if you have a high temperature, chills or feel very unwell. See a dermatologist if bumps persist or you cannot stop shaving. Similar looking spots can be acne or infected follicles, and a dermatologist can identify the cause and offer treatment that allows some people to keep shaving.147