Self-care plays an important part in how we present ourselves to the world. Everyone wants to look good, smell good, and make a lasting impression on those we encounter in our day-to-day interactions.
In doing so, it is of utmost importance that you get the best products to elevate your mood and give the quality experience needed to boost that confidence. One of the best ways to do so is to have a nice clean shave – but what happens when this causes more harm than good?
For many people, this is a reality because of pseudofolliculitis barbae – otherwise known as razor bumps.
Razor burn is a common skin condition that can develop after you shave. Some of the symptoms include itching, pain, the darkening of skin, small papules (solid round bumps), and pustules.
According to Cleveland Clinic, the leading causes of this include dry shaving, shaving too fast, shaving with an old razor, or shaving against the direction of your hair growth as well as in growing hair.
While the presence of these dark spots on one’s chin and legs affects one’s confidence, it is important to know that there are ways to both prevent and cure it.
Healthline has provided a list of things you can do to return your skin to its original state.
Here’s how to prevent it:
- Avoid shaving too closely.
- Shave in the direction of hair growth rather than “against the grain.”
- Use a non-irritating shaving cream.
- Use an electric razor.
- Avoid pulling skin while shaving.
- Reduce the frequency of shaving.
- Replace your razor frequently.
- Exfoliate with retinoids, glycolic or salicylic acids, or benzoyl peroxides to help clear the follicle opening.
How to cure it:
- Give it time – Avoid shaving as often as you use to, this will give the infected area a chance to heal.
- Moisturise – Moisturising will soften and hydrate the skin and reduces itching. Apply an aftershave or add a non-alcohol-based moisturiser for perfect results.
- Release ingrown hair – Ingrown hair is one of the leading causes of razor bumps. It is therefore important to exfoliate to get rid of old skin cells that trap hair. Avoid using needles or tweezers, this may cause infection.
