You may not need to do anything to get rid of razor bumps.
In fact, these pimple-like bumps, known aspseudofolliculitis barbae, often go away on their own.
However, it’s possible for you to reduce irritation with a compress or try topical creams.
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You don’t need to treat this area.
Do not use medication for your face or other areas to get rid of razor bumps down there.
Instead, use the self-care tips.
Photo composite by Amelia Manley for Verywell Health; Getty Images
These bumps should resolve on their own.
Several skin care products can help you ease razor burns.
Chemical Exfoliant
These are skin scrubs and peels that contain ingredients to help remove dead skin cells.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2024
They include:
Topical Anti-inflammatory Creams
Corticosteroids are used to treat inflammation in various.
Low-potency over-the-counter topicalcorticosteroid creamcan be used to calm inflamed razor bumps.
This includes hydrocortisone cream.
Topical Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxideis a topical medication commonly used to treat acne breakouts.
It’s an antimicrobial, so it kills bacteria that can cause an infection around irritated razor bumps.
It helps unclog pores and also promotes the turnover of skin cells.
Benzoyl peroxide can be found in many skin carecleansersas well as creams and toners.
Your healthcare provider can diagnose infections, which will require treatment with topical ororal antibiotics.
One of the side effects for people with darker skin may be a loss of pigmentation.
Using a razor that has two blades can also increase the chance of razor bumps.
Be sure you always use a sharp blade.
Blunt blades can cause razor bumps.
Change blades after five to seven shaves.
Each day, gently brush the hair in one direction.
For your beard and scalp, use hair clippers and leave 0.5 to 1 millimeter of hair.
This will help prevent the hair from growing into the skin and causing a bump.
Reproduced with permission from DermNetdermnetnz.org2024
Another option is to use a method other than a razor for hair removal.
OTC medication can help relieve irritation.
If the bumps don’t go away or become infected, you gotta speak to a healthcare provider.
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Ogunbiyi A.Pseudofolliculitis barbae; current treatment options.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol.
2019;12:241-247. doi:10.2147/CCID.S149250
Food and Drug Administration.Alpha Hydroxy Acids.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.What Can Treat Large Facial Pores.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Retinoid or Retinol.
2017;8(3):186-191. doi:10.4103/idoj.IDOJ_535_15
National Center for Biotechnology Information.Benzoyl peroxide.
2014;25(2):123-9.
