Oh, razor burn. Why do you have to go and make things so uncomfortable?
Those aggravating little bumps can crop up for a few reasons. It could have something to do with how you’re shaving or that dull, grimy razor you’re determined to make last for another week. It could also be your genes – coarse or curly facial hair is the most susceptible to razor burn.
In my last post, I outlined a step-by-step guide to preventing razor burn and ingrown hairs. If that advice didn’t reach you in time, don’t lose hope because I’m going to help you make your face feel better below.
Start with a gentle chemical exfoliant
If exfoliating isn’t part of your skincare routine, the word “chemical” may sound intense. But a chemical exfoliant gently dissolves dead skin, neutralizes bacteria, and reduces inflammation, all of which will help nudge ingrown hairs out of the pores they’re trapped in. Try glycolic acid to begin with. If it irritates your skin, stop using it. But if it does the trick, feel free to start reaching for it a couple times a week. Exfoliating at that frequency should lead to clearer, fresher-looking skin.
Trust the process
Just as you should never pop a pimple, resist the urge mow down any razor burn. It needs to heal on its own. If you have a large patch of it, most of the bumps should disappear within a couple of days. More pronounced bumps, the ones that refuse to go away on their own, will need more time. Here’s what to do in that instance:
Stop shaving (for the time being)
Shaving is only going to make things worse. If your work requires you to be freshly shaven, use an electric shaver. It won’t break your skin’s surface when your skin’s at its most sensitive and cause further aggravation.
Soothe your burn
Each morning and night, heat a moist, clean washcloth in the microwave for a few seconds, then, handling it with care, cover the affected area with it. This will soothe and soften the skin. And with any luck, it’ll enable the trapped hairs to release themselves. Bonus: It’s also a pretty relaxing way to start and end your day.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize
Moisturized skin is resilient skin. While this is more of a preventive measure, there’s no better time to start than now. Although, while you’re dealing with your razor burn, opt for a noncomedogenic, face-specific lotion that won’t re-clog (or keep clogged) your pores.
When to see a dermatologist
If your bumps just won’t heal, or you’re in a lot of pain, put away the tweezers – you’ll only do more damage that could potentially leave dark spots or scar tissue – and instead seek out a board-certified dermatologist.
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