How To Get Rid Of Ingrown Hairs

Improper shaving can cause ingrown hair, also known as Pseudofolliculitis barbae or razor bumps. Razor bumps can occur on any part of the body that is shaved, however it is more common of heavy areas of shaving such as the face, head, genital area and other heavy shaving areas.

Ingrown hair occurs when a close shave scrapes the skin. This causes the hair stubble to become trapped below the surface of the skin. As the hair begins to grow some of it fails to grow out of the hair follicle and instead, grows and curls inward. As the tip of the ingrown hair pierces the skin, it becomes irritated and redness and inflammation sets in. This causes a bump on the surface of the skin, known as a razor bump. Skin inflammation can cause permanent scarring and colors changes to the skin.

Proper shaving can help prevent razor bumps. Use a sharp blade when shaving. Dull blades causes skin irritation as it scrapes across the skin. Shave in short strokes and do not shave against the grain of the hair growth to prevent skin irritation and point hairs back into the skin causing a bump. Press gently with the blade to avoid too much pressure on skin. Excess pressure removes additional surface skin. Try and avoid shaving over the same area too many times, as each stroke removes skin cells and can cause unnecessary irritation.

Use a gentle scrub before shaving which will remove dead skin and help point hair out of the skin for a cleaner shave. You may also try a hot shower before shaving to make the hair soft and the skin tender.

Try a post shave treatment product on the market to get rid of and prevent razor bumps. When selecting a product be sure the product:

1.) Does not burn shaved areas due to body perspiration.

2.) Prevents skin discoloration due to cuts and scrapes.

3.) Prevents swelling, ingrown hairs or razor bumps.

Improved shaving techniques along with a post shave treatment will prevent skin irritation and razor bumps.