Both sexes are familiar with the unsightly rashes, often accompanied by small pimple-like bumps – razor bumps. Keep reading to learn more, find some great DIY cures, and prevention techniques.
What’s the Difference Between Burns and Bumps?
A burn is a rash, a bump occurs when the hair follicle leans backward, ingrown hair penetrates your skin and may lead to infection.
These conditions are at an all-time high and not just because of summertime.
Why? Trends.
Fashion and style trends (hair, nails, clothing, shoes), are cyclical. What was once popular in the past. often becomes the newest trend today. Here’s what I mean…
Shaving Trends:
- Clean-shaven heads. A study done by CBS News’ livescience.com, “a bald head signifies dominance”. – I’m not sure about this theory, but it certainly looks better aesthetically. Remember Ule Brenner in “The King and I”?
- Men and women shaving every part of their body.
“The beard trend – Over.”
I’ve noticed the younger men (30’s) seem to have the longer, unkempt-looking beards and I personally do not see that this style has changed much. I tried telling this to my son, but the beard lives on.
What Am I Doing Wrong?
- Dull razor,
- pushing too hard against skin removes hair and skin cells,
- shaving new area of skin
- poorly cleansed and moisturized before shaving
- you didn’t use enough shaving cream on the area to create a barrier between your skin and the razor.
How to Heal a Razor Burn
If you don’t want this to go any further, take action now!
- Aloe Vera Gel – It’s analgesic properties soothe irritation, reduce swelling and protect the skin from infection. Aloe vera is also a great natural treatment for dry scalp.
- Ice Packs – Reduce swelling.
• Apply ice pack for 10 minutes. Repeat as necessary. - Black Tea – Rich in vitamins, minerals and healing properties, it accelerates the regeneration of skin
• Moisten a tea bag in warm water; rub the area for 2-3 minutes. Repeat daily as needed. - Baking Soda – An amazing panacea for just about anything!
• Mix 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of baking soda to make a paste. Apply to affected area with a cotton ball, let it dry for 5 minutes; rinse with cool water. Repeat 2 to 3 times a day as needed. - Honey and Vinegar – Both have antibacterial properties.
• Apply affected area with a layer of honey, leave on 3-5 minutes, rinse with cold water; apply apple cider vinegar and let air-dry.
Prevention Tips
- Cleanse Properly – Thoroughly clean area before shaving and hot shower to open the pores to promote relaxation and less resistance.
- Shave Correctly – Always use a sharp, good quality razor.
- Over shaving – Try not to repeatedly shave the same area. Let the hair grow in some.
- Electric Shaver – Use an electric razor instead of a disposable or straight razor
- Close the Pores – Rinse well with cold water to close the pores, or use Witch Hazel.
- Moisturize – Use a good quality shaving cream to create a thick layer between you and the razor; moisturize after shaving. You can also exfoliate.
- Don’t Overdo It – Do not tug too hard against your skin, you will pull skin cells off along with your hair.
- Alcohol – Avoid products containing alcohol, which causes clogged pores.
With any type of irritation, infection, or ailment, you should always seek medical advice. Other conditions can mimic a more serious disease.
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