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 | What are razor bumps and how are they treated? |
|  Razor bumps, technically known as psuedofolliculitis barbae, aretender, red, raised bumps caused by shaving. Shaving whiskers in thedirection opposite to their natural growth can cause the tip of the hair togrow into the skin rather than in the normal outward direction. As the haircontinues growing into the skin, its sharp end irritates the tissue below the skin--resulting in a razor bump.The best method for preventing razor bumps is to avoid shaving--which isn’t an option for everyone. Here are some tips for preventing razor bumps:Before shaving, wash the area with soap and warm water. This will soften hairs and produce blunt (rather than sharpened) hair tips, lowering the chance of ingrown hairs.Don't use a dull razor blade. Replace disposable blades or razors at least once a week to minimize the irritation caused by razor bumps.Experiment with different types of blades (double- or triple-edged andperhaps an electric shaver) to find the one that gives you the smoothest shave.Shave in the direction of hair growth and limit the number of razorstrokes as much as possible.Try a highly lubricating shaving gel such as Edge Pro Gel, Gillette Satin Care, or Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel.Products like Bump Stopper-2 Razor Bump Treatment may also help reduce the formation of razor bumps. Apply this product after shaving and nightly at bedtime.Once or twice daily, rub a clean, short-bristled toothbrush or rough wash cloth over the affected area, using a gentle, circular motion. This may help dislodge ingrown hairs.Razor bumps that are very red, large, or painful, or don't improve may beinfected. Contact your doctor or dermatologist if you suspect you haveinfected razor bumps.Sources:Habif, Thomas. Clinical Dermatology. Mosby-Year Book Inc., 1996.Dambro. Griffith’s 5-Minute Clinical Consult. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins Inc., 1999.American Academy of Dermatology Web Site http://www.aad.org/pamphlets/black.html. Last accessed 12/2006.This answer prepared 12/20/2000.This information updated 2/6/2007. |
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