If you’ve ever felt the tell-tale burning sensation of razor bumps, then you’ll know or learn the importance of preventing them in the first instance. These painful bumps appear within minutes or hours of shaving, and are caused by irritation due to improper technique, poor equipment, or sensitive skin, or where facial hair is left partially intact in the skin. However, even the best shaving routines won’t always guarantee that you’ll end up with the perfect results. In those cases where irritation is inevitable, here are some tips on how to get rid of razor bumps. It’s important to relieve the irritation as quickly as possible to prevent scarring or other long term side effects. Not to mention, you’ll also want to kill that burn, bro.

How To Get Rid Of Razor Bumps

Always shave in the direction your hair grows. This is called “with the grain.” Check to see how it grows on both your face and neck before starting. The directions in the images displayed are common, but this may be different for you, so check first. Shaving with the grain will help prevent irritation and bumps. Always hold the razor at about a 30 degree angle. Here’s how you do it: Grab your Bevel razor, and hold the logo on the head of the razor against your skin. Start tilting the handle until the blade just touches your skin. Do not apply pressure. Be easy. That’s close enough.That’s your 30 degree angle. Rinse your skin with cold water to close your pores. Don’t rub, gently pat dry with a clean towel. Rub a nickel-sized amount of restoring balm into your skin.

How To Get Rid Of Razor Bumps

Types of Razor Bumps

There are actually two types of razor bumps, called extrafollicular and transfollicular. In the former case, the hair turns around and grows inwards without exiting the skin at all. In transfollicular razor bumps, however, the hair exits the skin and reenters it, so you may be able to see a small amount of exposed hair. In this case, you might be able to tease the end of the hair out of the skin with a pair of tweezers, but resist the temptation to pluck the hair out completely: you’ll only end up with deeper ingrown hairs if you do.

Tip 1: Easing Razor Burn

The first action is to ease the burning sensation caused by razor bumps. This is where the skin has been aggravated and experiences the same effects as burning or scolding. First, promise that you won’t shave for at least 3 days or until the redness has gone down. If you shave during the treatment time, you face a high risk of the problem coming back, and needing medical intervention. Next, take a warm (not hot) compress or clean wash cloth, and apply mild pressure to the afflicted area. This should offer immediate relief, as the warmth will draw out any infection, and soothe the skin. Keep the compress on for as long as it’s warm, or go ahead and apply again for up to 10 minutes. Do not use the compress for more than 15-20 minutes. If you are still in pain, please contact your doctor.

Tip 2: Cleaning Razor Bumps

The next step is to disinfect the area with a mild antiseptic that will prevent infection. Razor bumps, especially those left untreated, can become open sores. These are easy for bacteria to creep into, and can quickly cause scarring or other long term side effects. We recommend using a natural cleanser such as Aloe Vera or Tea Tree Oil, to provide gentle relief. These are best used when cool to the touch. Keep some in your fridge if you suffer from razor bumps frequently. Be sure to only touch your face with clean tools and hands during and after treatment to reduce the risk of infection. If you notice discharge coming from the razor bumps then you should seek medical attention. You may need an antibiotic. You can also use a triple antibiotic at home as a precaution.

Tip 3: Allow 3 Days to Heal

Baxter of California Shaver’s Skin Care Set

The final step is mostly to allow time to work it’s magic, but there are some pro-active steps you can take to speed up this process. Firstly, do not shave. Any added irritation during this time is likely to cause more razor bumps to return. Your risk of infection also increases, so fight the urge to shave, or pick at the razor bumps as they heal. Next, invest in a skin care system such as Baxter of California Shaver’s Skin Care Set. This convenient dopp kit contains all the products you need for smooth, comfortable skin before, during and after your shave. With the right mix of essential skincare and shaving products, this kit covers all of the bases, and will reduce the risk of razor bumps. Daily Face Wash and Facial Scrub prep skin for a smooth shave by cleansing and lifting hair follicles. Super Close Shave Formula minimizes irritation while providing a smooth, comfortable shave.

Know a secret tip on how to get rid of razor bumps? Leave a comment below & let us know!