Tips on Preventing Razor Bumps
If you’ve ever finished a shave only to have irritating bumps pop up on your face not long after, you know how unpleasant and unsightly this side effect of shaving can be.
As to why razor bumps happen—they’re ingrown hairs which are caused when a hair gets trapped under the skin, or when a hair curls and grows into the skin instead of up and out of the follicle. If you have naturally curly hair, there’s a chance you’ll be more prone to razor bumps, but anyone who shaves can potentially suffer from them, since shaving often causes hair to grow in the wrong direction.
We truly believe shaving should be something you enjoy and look forward to every day, so we’re all for sharing ways to help you avoid bumps along the way. Follow these tips on how to get a smooth, great-looking shave.
Take a warm shower
Aside from being relaxing, the steamy water will open your pores and soften your hairs, which will make the hair easier to cut and will help reduce tug and pull when shaving. While you’re in there, wash your face with a cleanser or, even better, use an exfoliating scrub to get rid of any dirt, oil, and dead skin cells trapped in your pores that are just waiting to clog up your follicles.
Shave carefully
It’s time to throw out all those old, dull razors. To get a close, clean cut, you need to be sure to use a fresh razor with a sharp blade. When shaving, don’t press down on your razor too much or it can cut and irritate your skin, which leads to more bumps. Apply gentle pressure when shaving to take care of your skin. Always shave in the direction your hair grows to help it grow out straight.
If razor bumps have been a long-time problem for you, consider making the switch to a safety razor, which cuts hair at surface level and helps reduce the chance of the hair becoming ingrown.
Moisturize
Prep your skin with a pre-shave oil to add extra hydration and improve razor glide. Next, use a good-quality shaving cream, one that contains hydrating ingredients to soften the skin and provide necessary lubrication to reduce pull and drag. Using a boar brush to apply shaving cream or foam is another way to help prevent bumps. The brush bristles lift the hair up and away from your face, so your blade can cut the hair in one pass more easily. After a shave, apply aftershave or a post-shave lotion, so your skin can replenish lost moisture and prevent irritation and redness.
