Razor Bumps and Shaving

July 26, 2003

Obviously, the problem can be dealt with by just allowing the hair to grow. As the hair grows longer, it will grow out of the follicular opening itself. This option is not always feasible, especially for professionals who need to keep groomed for their job. The best way to deal with razor bumps and ingrown hairs is prevention.

Here are some tips to minimize ingrown hairs and the unsightly razor bumps they create:

- Use a facial scrub before shaving. This helps raise the hairs from under the skin and prevents them from growing back into the skin.

- Do not pull the skin tight when shaving.

- Always allow your skin to expand under hot water for at least 2 minutes before shaving. A good move is to save your shave for the end of your shower.

- Always shave with downward strokes in the direction of beard growth.

- Avoid repeating strokes. If you must, reapply a shaving lubricant.

- Avoid disposable razors and change razor blades at the very least every five shaves.

- Shave every other day, if your employer or partner will allow you.

There are several products on the market that will help in the fight against razor bumps and ingrown hairs.

In the facial scrub category, try California North's Gelskin Scrub. It's pH-balanced and it includes walnut shell pumice to scrub the natural way. For those prone to acne as well razor bumps, DDF Skincare's Pumice Acne Scrub is the answer for you.

For shaving agents, go with DDF Skincare's Medicated Shave Cream BP 2.5%. It contains benzoyl peroxide and tea tree oil, which enter the follicle and serve as an active antibacterial and keratolytic agent, respectively.

And finally, to continue fighting those razor bumps after you shave, try Brave Soldier Code Blue, Baxter of California Razor Bump Repair, or Anthony Logistics Astringent Aftershave.

Alphatherapeutics