No matter how hard you try to be gentle when you shave, you still end up with bumps on your neck. It’s quite a frustrating matter for most men.
If you’re having the same problem on a regular basis, you’re at the right place, since we’re going to show you how to get rid of them, how to treat them fast, and, once they’re gone – how to prevent them.
It’s fairly easy to have a good shaving experience that won’t result in any unwanted consequences. Read on to learn how to get rid of razor bumps on your neck.
Know Your Enemy
First off, do you even know what razor bumps are? Razor bumps are caused by an ingrown hair. Doctors refer to them as pseudofolliculitis barbae. It’s caused by the hair curling back and penetrating into your skin, which can happen after shaving.
As a direct result, your skin gets inflamed, because the body perceives the hair as a foreign object.
The most common symptoms of razor bumps include raised bumps, pus-filled spots, sore skin, itchy skin, bleeding during shaving, and, sometimes even more complicated medical conditions such as sycosis barbae.
This condition affects African Americans mostly, although it may happen to anyone who uses a razor to shave their beard. People with curly hair tend to face this more often than others, too.
What Causes Razor Bumps?
Now that you know what razor bumps are, let’s take a quick look at the possible causes.
Obviously, the leading cause is connected to the tools and techniques you employ during shaving. Once you cut your hair it will grow in a non-uniform way, and it may start to curl back into your skin.
Most cartridge razors have two or more blades that are designed to first lift up your hair follicle before cutting the hair. That’s how you get a really close shave.
Once you get that smooth feel, the hair will sometimes start to grow in a curved manner instead of straight.
As a result, the hair could grow back into the skin and ultimately lead to the development of razor bumps.
People who rely on foil or rotary electric shavers are a whole other story. These shavers can’t really give you that close of a shave as an old-fashioned blade.
This is why you’re at a much greater risk of getting razor bumps after shaving.
Techniques and Methods
Now we’re getting to the very essence of how to remove razor bumps on the neck. We’re gonna discuss a few tried-and-true methods and techniques which should be of great help.
Take a warm shower before shaving
This is very important because it helps to soften the pores in your skin. Don’t be lazy and make up excuses. If this matters to you, you’ll find the time.
Warm water will wash away all the dust that piles up in your skin pores and open them up. Don’t rush this as it’s very important to spend some time under warm water before it can do its job properly.
If you really don’t have enough time to shower before shaving, you can try an alternative solution for softening your skin. A hot wet washcloth applied to your neck for five minutes will work wonders at preparing your skin for a shave.
Exfoliate regularly
It isn’t that popular among men to take care of their skin, but if you often suffer from razor bumps maybe it’s time to start thinking differently.
First of all, you should try exfoliating the skin on your neck on a regular basis. You can even do this while you’re showering to save you some time. You can also try using a rough towel after you’re done showering.
Change the Blades
What’s the last time you’ve changed the razor or purchased a new shaver? You really shouldn’t save money on these. We’re not talking about crazy amounts of cash here, and also don’t make excuses about how you’ve forgotten to change the blade.
A dull blade simply can’t reach as close to the skin as a sharp one. It also can’t cut your hair properly without irritating the skin area below.
If you use a cartridge razor, always make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the time interval between cartridge replacements.
Lubricate Properly
Those of you who are at a higher risk of razor bumps should always lubricate your skin before you shave.
You can use a lubricating shaving gel, or, if prefer natural products, a coconut oil moisturizer.
Disinfect your Blade
Since your skin is so easily irritated, you need to keep rinsing your blade, even during the process of shaving. It has to be perfectly clean in order to avoid skin irritations.
Don’t Go Against the Grain
Some men do it unintentionally, while some others do it because they want that smoothest feeling ever once they’re done shaving. But going against the grain will not actually give you a closer shave and a smoother feeling.
It will only irritate your skin and lead to an increased risk of razor bumps.
Don’t Torture the Same Skin Area
Going multiple times over the same area of skin will most likely lead to irritation and razor bumps. If this is something you’ve gotten used to over time, it’s a bad habit that needs to die right away.
However, if you do this because the blade doesn’t cut the hairs properly, it’s simply time to change it.
Don’t Push Too Hard
A good blade doesn’t need to be pushed hard.
Wash Your Skin with Cold Water
Once you’re done shaving, there is one important thing that needs to be done. Always wash your face with cold water after shaving.
Scratching Won’t Help
No matter how itchy your skin gets after shaving, you simply must not scratch it. No matter what.
Razor Bumps on Neck Home Remedies
In case your problem remains despite these prevention tips, there are still a few home remedies that may be of help in alleviating the problem.
Aloe Vera
This is probably the best and most commonly used natural remedy for the treatment of razor bumps. You can use it in its natural form or in the form of a juice, but either way, it will work wonders with its unbelievable skin-soothing properties.
It’s also great at providing physical relief when you feel itchy.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is widely known for its strong antiseptic properties, so it can be used for the treatment of razor bumps. Just remember, like all essential oils, tea tree oil is very abrasive, so it needs to be mixed with a carrier oil before you apply it.
Witch Hazel
This one may be rather helpful, but don’t forget that it has strong astringent properties. This means that it can close up your pores. It will alleviate all inflammatory conditions of your skin, though.
White Tea
You might be surprised, but ordinary white tea bags can really help soothe your skin and alleviate the symptoms associated with razor burns. Just wet the bag and press it against the affected area of your skin for instant relief.
Lemon Juice
Lemon has strong acidic properties, which means that it can prevent bacteria from colonizing your ingrown hair. Keep in mind that due to those same properties, it may not be the most pleasant experience when you apply it to your skin.
Baby Powder
Are you feeling sore because of your razor bumps? Apply some baby powder and massage it gently into the affected areas. It will reduce inflammation and bring you some much-needed relief.
Conclusion
Now that you’re well aware of all the different methods and techniques out there, you now know how to get rid of razor bumps on your neck! Just follow our guidelines and you’ll soon have normal shaving experiences in no time.
