Razor bumps, also known as ingrown hairs, are small, red bumps that appear on the skin’s surface after shaving or waxing. If your hair is particularly curly or coarse, or you do not shave properly, you may experience ingrown hairs. Instead of letting itchy, bothersome bumps rule your face or bikini area, change your shaving technique and use home remedies to soothe your skin.
Change Your Shaving Technique
Wet the hair you are about to shave before shaving to soften the hairs, creating a smoother shave.
Shave with a new, clean razor every time to help prevent skin from snagging on the razor. Shaving with a dull razor will irritate your skin, causing hairs to grow underneath the skin instead of emerging.
Shave with the grain instead of against it, and use a shaving gel that is lubricated.
Rinse the razor every time you shave to help get the smoothest, most even shave possible.
Cold Washcloth
Place a cold washcloth over the shaved area immediately after shaving. Wet a clean washcloth or towel with cold water, then apply it directly to the skin for five to ten minutes. Applying a cold washcloth will reduce swelling and irritation on the skin due to shaving. When skin is swollen and irritated, hairs are unable to grow straight through the surface of the skin and are more likely to become ingrown.
Baby Oil and Rubbing Alcohol
After shaving, apply a mixture of baby oil and rubbing alcohol to the skin, recommends Sarah Smith in an article in Real Simple Magazine. Place a few drops of baby oil and a few drops of rubbing alcohol on the palm of your hand, then rub your hands together to mix them together. Dab the mixture on the shaved area to help soothe the skin and prevent swelling, redness and irritation.
