Recognizing Razor Bumps as a Skin Condition

Irritating and embarrassing razor bumps affect more than 80% of African Americans. Men are more commonly affected, but they rarely seek professional help to manage their care and minimize its intensity. Professional dermatologists specializing in skincare for darker skin tones offer in-office treatments and care that are easy to follow and can help manage skin susceptible to razor bumps. Pseudofolliculitis Barbae is caused by hair removal through waxing, shaving, and plucking. Sometimes painful, these red bumps can become filled with pus and cause ingrown hairs to become infected. The body treats an ingrown hair like a splinter, becoming inflamed. Inflammation causes acne-like bumps and discoloration and can leave scars if not appropriately managed.

A Full Beard or Clean Shaven?

Often, men who have reactions to shaving that can lead to razor bumps will opt for wearing a full beard. However, not all men can do this for work or other personal reasons. A conservative look rarely means a full beard, so in these cases, it is encouraged to find a skincare solution that allows a clean-shaven face without irritated bumps. Most men who are clean-shaven must shave every day, so a person who has to do this and suffers from razor bumps deserves a skincare solution!

How to Prevent Razor Bumps

Every blog, social media post, and skincare specialist will have tips for preventing razor bumps. The fact is that some people are more susceptible to them. Some individuals can shave daily without any reaction, while others may experience severe reactions. People scramble to purchase better-quality razors or visit a hair removal spa, but these have minimal impact. If razor bumps aren’t a concern for you, you could share this valuable information with someone who it does affect. Here are some tips from a dermatologist’s perspective:

1. Clean-shaven doesn’t have to be baby skin smooth. Using clippers instead of a razor allows hair to stay a little longer and avoids shaving irritation. Often, this short look is passable for corporate offices.
2. Shave with hair growth. It is never recommended to go against the hair’s natural growth direction. This can cause unnecessary friction and leave skin raw. Instead, use a single-edged razor and shave against the direction of the hair’s growth. This will require a nice, sharp razor. One swipe should do it and avoid shaving the same spot more than once.
3. Shave fresh out of a warm shower to soften hair and open the pores, which are slightly open. Using a gel or cream can also help alleviate irritation, and even though it is another step and another product, it is worth the effort.
4. Treat Skin After the Shave. Individuals prone to razor bumps should consider incorporating a post-shave skincare routine into their routine. How skin is treated can make a world of difference. Using a washcloth and warm water, gently rub the skin in the days following a shave. This can help prevent curly hair from re-entering the skin and becoming an ingrown hair. Moisturization is key, and finding the right products can be a guessing game unless you work with a dermatologist.

Treating the Tyrants

Although prevention is ideal, treating bumps when they appear can accelerate healing and significantly reduce the risk of infection. One of the most important things a person can do is refrain from shaving while bumps are still on the skin. Ingrown hairs can also be removed at home with a toothpick or sterile needle used to gently uncurl them and release the hair – do not shave or pluck ingrown hairs. After a shower or wetting the skin with warm water, it will become less painful and easier to achieve this.

Anyone who suffers from this skincare condition can find relief, as there are affordable and straightforward solutions that a reputable dermatologist can guide them through. Dermatologists can prescribe topical treatments and even oral antibiotics for some patients. Instead of just dealing with razor bumps and suffering through them each time you put a blade to your cheek, contact a local dermatologist and make an appointment. Dr. Sherrie Straughn of Buckhead Dermatology has been working with male and female clients in Atlanta, and she is an active member of the Skin of Color Society. Her education, training, and impressive list of achievements and awards have enabled her to establish her practice in Buckhead. She wants people to know that, regardless of what you are suffering from —whether it’s acne, melasma, eczema, or razor bumps —there is a skincare solution. Skin cancer screenings are another vital component of overall health, which is an area in which her practice focuses. Skin cancer is highly treatable, and she does comprehensive skin cancer screenings and treatment for men and women.