After shaving it is perfectly normal to find small red bumps, occasionally with a white head, dotting your bikini line or chin. These are called in-growing hairs, caused by the cut hair getting trapped beneath the skin. The medical term for it is 'pseudofolliculitis barbae'. They are unsightly and irritating, often causing an itchy rash, known as 'razor rash'. However, by following some simple steps you can avoid shaving bumps.
Prepare
Dry shaving is more likely to irritate the skin, so it is essential that you prepare the area before attacking it with a razor. Exfoliating will help to remove dead skin cells, which can dull the blade. Use a moisturising shaving gel or cream to soften the hair; this will also help to keep the skin hydrated.
Technique
Whilst shaving against the hair is most effective for cutting the hair closer to the skin, it is more likely to cause in-growing hairs. Shaving with the hair will lessen the risk of shaving bumps. Avoid swapping shaving for waxing. Waxing pulls hairs out by the roots and can cause the follicles to become blocked leading to in-growing hairs.
Moisturise
After shaving use a moisturiser to re-hydrate the skin. The motion of rubbing in the moisturiser will also help to improve circulation, which can in turn help to prevent razor rash.
Treat
If you do get in-growing hairs, never squeeze them! You are more likely to cause the follicle to become infected, giving it the white head. Using a pair of fine tweezers you may be able to pull the end of the hair out from under the skin, allowing it to grow normally. Do not pluck the hair though, simply cut it short as pulling hair by the roots will increase the chances of shaving bumps. Witch hazel and calamine lotion are both very soothing creams when it comes to treating rashes.
Time
In-growing hairs, or shaving bumps, are more likely to develop on sensitive parts of the body such as the bikini line and armpits. Whilst it may be uncomfortable and unsightly, leaving the hair to grow to a length of over 2 millimeters will also lessen the risk of shaving bumps. You should only shave hair off when you have to, so avoid using the razor every day.
By following these steps your skin will benefit by feeling smoother, softer and bump free. Just remember to keep your skin well hydrated and you are one step closer to a more even shave. You will be more confident in yourself and you never know what that might bring!