How To Prevent & Treat Razor Bumps

Razor bumps are red, inflamed small lumps on the skin that appear in places that have recently been shaved. It can sometimes feel like we’re fighting a losing battle when it comes to shaving and razor bumps. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

At Cremo, we understand the frustration and discomfort razor bumps bring, so we're here to help. Taking care of your skin before, during, and after shaving is key to preventing razor bumps. We’ll take you through how to prevent and treat razor bumps here.

Razor bumps can be itchy and, if left untreated, could develop into ingrown hairs.

In this article, we have everything you need to know about what causes razor bumps, how to prevent them, and how to treat them because we all deserve to look and feel our best after a good ol’ groom.

What causes razor bumps?

Razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae) can be caused by a few factors. One of the main causes of razor bumps is the shaving technique. Not shaving your face correctly can cause irritation and inflammation, resulting in razor bumps. Another unfortunate reason for these pesky bumps is dry shaving.

If you (like many) have sensitive skin, you could also be more prone to razor bumps. That's why it's important to choose products specifically designed for sensitive skin.

How long do razor bumps last?

No two people’s skin is the same. So, this means healing time can vary. However, razor bumps should last no more than a couple of weeks.

Tips for preventing razor bumps

1. Pay attention to how you shave your face

The technique you use to shave your facial hair will have a substantial impact on how your skin reacts. Only shave in the direction your hair grows in. Going against the grain will only irritate your skin.

2. Shave regularly

Shaving daily or every other day will give your hair less time to grow, meaning it will have less time to curl and become an ingrown hair.

3. A sharp razor is key

When a razor blade is dull, it can tug and pull at the hair follicles instead of cleanly cutting through them. This can lead to hair follicles becoming trapped beneath the skin, resulting in razor bumps.

4. Cleanse and exfoliate your face regularly

Dirt and oil can cause nasty bacteria to grow on your skin if you don’t regularly cleanse. Cleansing your face prior to shaving reduces the likelihood of unwanted bacteria entering your pores post-shave. Exfoliation to help remove dead skin cells can promote a more even skin texture, meaning your hair will grow easily without becoming trapped beneath the surface.

Shop Men’s Face Wash & Men’s Face Scrub

5. Use shave cream

Just like we mentioned, one of the biggest causes of razor bumps is dry shaving. A big no-no. Lather your favourite shaving cream before you go anywhere near your skin with that razor.

Using shave cream creates a thin layer of lubrication between the razor blade and the skin. This helps the razor glide smoothly over the skin's surface, reducing irritation. It also softens the hair, making it much easier to get a close shave with less inflammation.

Shaving Tip: Invest in a good moisturizer to keep skin supple, this is another great way of softening facial hair.

Shop Men’s Shave Cream & Men’s Face Moisturizer.

6. Always end with a post-shave balm

As well as helping prevent razor burn, using a post-shave balm has some amazing benefits. Firstly, soothes and cools (meaning less razor bumps!) and it helps keep your skin moisturized. This is because as we shave, the act strips away natural oils from the skin. These natural oils actually keep our skin feeling hydrated… Enter post-shave balm!

Shop Men’s Post-Shave Balm.

Tips for treating razor bumps

Now we know what to do to prevent them, but what if it’s a little too late for that and you’re here to find out how to treat razor bumps that are already here? Well, we’ve got you covered there too.

1. Exfoliate the area

Although this is also a prevention tool, exfoliating the shaved area will help treat razor bumps that have already appeared.

2. Apply a warm compress

To reduce inflammation and soothe the skin, apply a warm compress to the affected area for a few minutes. This can help to open up the pores, soften the skin, and alleviate discomfort.

3. Take a step back from the razor

Unfortunately, time is the best healer. If you are suffering with razor bumps you will need to take a small break from shaving until the bumps have gone. If you shave over razor bumps, it will only cause irritation and make them more itchy, red, and potentially painful.

4. Common places razor bumps occur

Men are more likely to have razor bumps on their neck, jawline, and chin if they have coarse or curly facial hair. For women, the bikini area is a common location for razor bumps due to the sensitivity of the skin and the coarseness of the hair in that region. Ingrown hairs and ensuing razor bumps can result from shaving or other hair removal techniques in this region.

Step into self-care with Cremo

Now you’re fully equipped with the information you need to prevent and treat razor bumps, you’ll need the best products for the task. Shop the Cremo collection of Shave Cream & Razors today.

Looking for more? We’ve got you covered. Discover the Men’s Grooming and Advice Blog today for all the guides, news, and tips you need to keep your grooming routine in the best shape.

If you take your shaving routine as seriously as we do, why not save and opt for one of our shaving bundles? Check out The Barber Grade Shaving Bundle, which includes our amazing Original Shave Cream, additional razor blade cartridges, and our superior barber grade razor, is the ideal all-in-one shaving present or gift.

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