Razor Bumps & Ingrown Hairs

Tired of shaving irritation, bumps, ingrown hairs? 

Wet shaving offers the closest, smoothest shave around… however, it can also lead to pesky issues like ingrown hairs and skin irritation. Fortunately, with the right techniques and products, we can stop this irritating skin problem with a few simple tips & tricks.

1. Pre-Shave is a Must

·      Exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells and prevent hairs from becoming trapped under the skin. Use a gentle facial scrub, or a chemical exfoliant at least 24 hours prior to shaving. 

·      Use warm water to hydrate your skin and soften hair. Consider taking a warm shower or applying a warm, damp towel to your face for a few minutes before shaving. This opens your pores & makes the hair easier to cut.

2. Choose a Quality Shaving Cream or Gel

·      Invest in a high-quality shaving cream or gel designed for your skin type. Look for products with moisturizing ingredients, such as aloe vera or shea butter, to protect and soothe your skin during the shave.

3. Sharp Razor Blades are Imperative

·      Always use a sharp, clean blade. Dull blades tug at the hair rather than cutting it cleanly, leading to irritation and ingrown hairs.

·      Change your blades regularly—ideally after every 5-7 shaves, or sooner if you have thick, coarse hair and notice any pulling.

4. It’s all about Technique

·      Shaving in the direction of hair growth minimizes irritation. While a close shave might tempt you to go against the grain, it often leads to ingrown hairs.

·      If you want a closer shave, consider going against the grain only on the second pass, after a first pass with the grain.

·      Don’t rush!  Take your time while shaving because rushing increases the risk of cuts and irritation.

·      Use gentle, short strokes and let the razor do the work.

·      Avoid pressing too hard; let the weight of the razor do the cutting.

·      Maintain a consistent routine by shaving regularly.  This will help keep hair short and manageable, and less likely to curl back into the skin, which is a main cause of ingrown hairs.

5. Don’t Skip the Post-Shave Care

·      After shaving, rinse your face with cool water to close the pores.

·      Gently pat it dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing the skin, as this can cause irritation.

·      Moisturize with an alcohol-free aftershave or balm to calm and hydrate the skin.  Look for products that include ingredients like witch hazel, tea tree oil or chamomile, all of which reduce redness and inflammation.

Preventing ingrown hairs and skin irritation from wet shaving is all about preparation, technique, and aftercare… especially if you use quality blades and products.  By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a smooth shave without the discomfort. Remember, every individual’s skin is different, so it may take some experimentation to find the perfect routine for you.