Razor Bumps Pseudofolliculitis barbae is the more scientific term used to describe razor bumps.
But what exactly are razor bumps? First and foremost, it is a skin related problem. Basically, it is an inflammatory reaction which usually becomes evident on people that has curly hair and shaves it. This happens when curly hair that has been shaved surfaces a person’s skin for a very short moment then curls back inside the pore. This hair would then become ingrown.
The result would then be the appearance of red bumps, irritation of the skin, and on many cases, pain.
Usually, razor bumps are evident with black people. This is because their hair tends to be naturally curly. In fact, shaving bumps are shown to be experienced by a percentage of 10-80 black men. This does not mean though that the irritation would not occur in others that have other skin colors. This skin irritation is not categorized by skin color, rather by hair type which in this case is curly.
The men who experience razor bumps are usually those who do not employ the proper shaving techniques and those that often shave. Shaving techniques known to prompt razor bumps include electrolysis, usage of double / triple razors, usage of tweezers in plucking the hair, against the grain shaving, and other shaving methods that inadvertently cut the hair beneath the surface.
Razor bumps may not be serious but it should not be fully disregarded either. Some cosmetic disfigurements are known to have come about due to shaving bumps. Pseudofolliculitis barbae can lead to keloid formation, secondary infection, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and scarring. There are however prevention methods that can be employed against the occurrence of razor bumps. If unfortunately, you already have some razor bumps, then there are also certain treatments that can be used.
The said prevention methods could include wetting the hair before shaving as this would increase the possibility of the hair being cut properly and evenly. Another prevention method is using shaving cream that is good, shaving with the grain, and not going over the same shave area of the skin twice. You can also prevent shaving bumps through letting the skin stay relaxed while being shaved, regularly replacing the shaving blade, using single bladed razor, and others. As for those who are already experiencing razor bumps, then here are the treatments that can be good for you.
Try letting your hair grow and give your skin some rest before you shave again. This is to avoid further irritation of your skin. Ideal number of rest days would be three or more. If you have razor bumps, do not disregard it but have it treated right away. This is to avoid infection. A local antibiotic could do the trick. To avoid making it worse, never squeeze or prick your shaving bumps.
Razor bumps should not be taken lightly. They can cause pain in the very least and can cause serious disfigurements. Shaving bumps do happen and when it does all you should do is treat it. |
