Do you fear shaving as much as you look forward to it? If so, you’re not alone. Even with the best tools, techniques and prep your skin can still get caught up in a whirlwind of razor bumps, itching and redness.
Why is that? Well, there are many reasons why this happens, but chief among them is coarseness of hair and the sharpness of your blade both of which you can easily remedy by putting in just a little more effort before hitting that razor.
The following five tips will help prevent uncomfortable irritation and razor bumps every time you shave.
Did you know there are over 200 different types of hair and skin? There is also a huge variety in skin and hair types that come with the shared problem of razor burn.
If you’ve experienced this before, you know it’s not fun! Razor bumps are an ingrown hair reaction that results in red, swollen lumps beneath the skin.
These nasty little things usually appear as a result of shaving too closely or using dull blades. So let’s check out some advice on how to avoid razor bumps, shall we?
Change your razor often
If you’ve been using the same razor for months or even years, it’s time to get a new one. When you use a razor for too long, you can accumulate hair, dead skin cells, and bacteria which can lead to ingrown hairs and bumps. By switching out your razor more often, you’ll reduce the risk of razor burn and bumps.
Exfoliate before and after you shave
Exfoliating before you shave helps remove dead skin cells and excess oil that can clog pores and cause ingrown hairs. Exfoliating after you shave can reduce any ingrown hairs that may have appeared. This can reduce redness and the risk of bumps from occurring.
Shower immediately after you shave
If a razor bump appears, you want to attack it at the source. Showering after you shave reduces bacteria that can cause irritation and promotes cleaner skin. It also helps close your pores and reduces the risk of infection. If you shave your legs, you might even consider shaving in the shower.
Use only creamy, non-scented shaving cream
If you’ve been buying the cheapest cans of shaving cream at the dollar store, it’s time to upgrade. When looking for a shaving cream, try to find one that’s creamy and non-scented.
Creamy shaving creams work best because they coat the hair and skin and help prevent nicks and cuts. They also have a moisturizing effect that makes your skin feel soft and smooth.
Dry off with a soft towel or cloth
Don’t get in the habit of wrapping yourself in a scratchy towel after a shave. It’s best to use a soft towel or cloth to dry your legs and bikini area. This helps close your pores and reduces the risk of ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
Final Thought
Dull blades are not only ineffective, but they can also cause nicks and cuts. These cuts allow bacteria and germs to enter the bloodstream and cause infections.
Other factors that can contribute to razor bumps include sensitive skin, not shaving in the direction of your hair growth, and not exfoliating before and after you shave. Try to avoid these pitfalls, and you can prevent razor bumps from occurring.