Managing razor bumps and ingrown hairs

While many men can experience skin irritation after shaving, some men are likely to develop a chronic type of razor bumps called Pseudofolliculitis Barbae, or PFB. This condition results in bumps after shaving that can be painful. To manage razor bumps, Gillette® has the tips needed to help minimise irritation and get a comfortable shave.

For tips on managing non-PFB (razor bumps) irritation from shaving, see our article on razor burn and irritation.

Razor Bumps: Here’s the Deal

Razor bumps and ingrown hair start with a genetic tendency toward extremely curly hair. The irregular shape of curly hair shafts and the curls themselves make hairs prone to pushing back into the surface of the skin as they regrow after being cut. This genetic factor makes ingrown hair and razor bumps very common in men of African or Indo-European descent. It is important to note that not all razor bumps are PFB, so if you believe you are experiencing this condition, a good first step is always to consult your dermatologist for diagnosis and management of symptoms of ingrown hair.

In addition to genetic factors, there are a few things that can happen during shaving that make you more likely to have an outbreak of razor bumps. When the hair shaft is dry, it’s much harder for your razor to cut, leading to more tugging and pulling. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it also can cause the hair tips to be cut at an angle, making it even easier for the hair to penetrate back into the skin as it grows and increase your risk of a razor bump outbreak.

Razor Bump diagram

Tips for Minimising Razor Bumps While Shaving

Cleanse: Set up for success.

Cleanse your skin with a gentle scrub and warm water, or use a shaving brush, before you shave. This step is crucial to removing dirt and oil from the surface of the skin, and releasing trapped hairs, allowing your razor to make proper contact with your skin and hair.
Hydrate: Soften to reduce tugs.

Moisten your face and use a shave cream to help hold the water on the hair. As your hair soaks up the water, it swells and softens, making it easier for your blades to cut.
Shave: Let the razor do the work.

Using gentle strokes, and let your razor do the heavy lifting. Shave regularly to avoid allowing the hair to grow long enough to re-enter the skin’s surface. Using a razor with multiple high-quality blades helps to minimise razor bumps after your shave.
Maintain: Restore the moisture.

Shaving can remove more than just hair—moisture can also be removed, leaving the skin dry, tight, and irritated. Use a moisturising after shave product to help replenish moisture in your skin and facial hair after you shave.

Cleanse, hydrate, shave, and maintain—these four steps, combined with Gillette’s line-up of shave care products will give you the power to help manage your razor bumps.