How to get rid of razor bumps caused by shaving

Anyone who has shaved their body hair before knows that razors, although a convenient option, can cause us problems. From ingrown hairs, to small nicks and cuts, to razor burn, there are plenty of issues that this method of hair removal can bring about.

Another common reaction that shaving can cause is razor bumps, affecting people from their jawlines right down to their pubic areas. 

In fact, our previous research on the nation’s hair removal habits found that a quarter (23%) of people that remove their hair find that shaving gives them bumps, rashes, acne and spots. 

Well, if you have red bumps after shaving, you’re most likely suffering from razor bumps. 

Because of the prevalent issue razor shaving bumps cause, our expert team at SmoothSkin has pulled together all the information you’ll need on how to prevent razor bumps and heal any that you’re dealing with. 

How does shaving cause razor bumps?

Razor bumps are caused by improper shaving techniques which cause your sharp, recently cut hair to curl back into, and penetrate the skin. This irritation creates red bumps that are itchy and painful for those affected. 

Shaving against the direction of your hair growth, shaving too closely, and pulling your skin while shaving can all cause razor bumps. Using an old or dull razor also will cause problems for any people that shave – so be sure to keep an eye on this before your next ‘everything shower’. 

Razor bumps may get confused with ingrown hairs as both will look like red bumps. However, razor shaving bumps will be smaller and usually come in clusters, while ingrown hairs are larger and tend to have a whitehead. 

Shaving bumps are most common on the face and genitals, due to the coarse hair on those body parts, but can occur anywhere you’re shaving. Those with curly or coarse hair are also more likely to experience razor bumps, as hair is less likely to grow in one direction. 

How can you get rid of shaving bumps?

There are key methods you can use to heal razor bumps that’ll work across your whole body, whether you’re looking at faces, or underarms and legs. 

However, if you’re wondering how to treat razor bumps on pubic areas, you should be aware that the skin here is thinner and more sensitive, so be careful not to cause any further inflammation. 

For any razor shaving bumps, you can use exfoliating products such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid (AHAs and BHAs) on the affected area. Products containing these acids will unclog pores and slough off dead skin cells, increasing skin cell turnover, which can help heal razor bumps that are causing any issues.

Applying a warm, wet washcloth to your skin can help soften the area and decrease irritation.

How to prevent razor bumps when removing hair

1. Figure out the direction your hair grows

If you’re set on continuing with your razor, you need to work out the direction your body hair grows. 

As shaving against your body hair can cause razor bumps, you should shave in the same direction as your hair growth to minimise the risk of shaving bumps coming back. 

If you find your hair growth is in different directions, you can brush your hair daily with a toothbrush to train hair to grow in one direction – making it easier to shave and prevent razor bumps. 

2. Always use shaving cream

Our research found that just 19% of people use shaving foams or creams every time they shave. 

You should never dry shave – especially if you’re prone to razor bumps, as dry shaving will add any to irritation. Shaving when your hair is properly wet will mean your hair is soft, and has expanded, meaning it is less likely to curl back into your skin. 

Before shaving you should cleanse your skin with a non-comedogenic product, as these products will help avoid any clogged pores. Use a moisturising shaving cream, and again, make sure your skin is wet before starting!

3. Replace your razor blades regularly

Old, dull razors can become covered in bacteria, increasing your risk of razor shaving bumps, ingrown hairs and infections. 

To prevent your risk of razor bumps you should make sure that you’re changing your razor every 5-7 shaves. 

4. Use a cool compress after shaving

Placing a cool, damp cloth on your skin after shaving can help reduce any irritation and stop shaving bumps from appearing. 

5. Stop shaving

Of course, the top way to prevent razor bumps… is to stop using a razor for your hair removal. 

Trying out an alternative hair removal technique, such as an IPL, can be a perfect method for those that continually find themselves with shaving bumps or anyone wanting to know how to prevent razor bumps. 

IPL technology works to gradually stop hair growth over time, which will eventually result in a permanent significant reduction in hair growth. IPL devices are a great technique for anyone that finds their skin irritated by traditional hair removal methods such as shaving or waxing 

So, if you find yourself at your wits end over your shaving bumps, there are other methods out there that can help you on your hair removal journey!