Razor irritation is not only an unpleasant side effect of hair removal, it can become infected and cause pain and skin problems. The bikini area can be particularly problematic because the skin is very sensitive there. Here's how to treat irritation and get healthy, smooth skin again.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Treating Razor Irritation
Step 1. Let the hair grow a little before shaving again
Shaving irritated skin will cause it to become even more irritated or it could open wounds and, as a result, lead to infection. If you can, let the hair grow for a few days and see if the irritation heals on its own.
Step 2. Resist the urge to scratch the area
It may itch, but breaking the pimples with your fingernails can lead to infection and scarring. Try to hold back as much as possible.
Step 3. Use a specific product for the treatment of razor burns
Look for a product that contains salicylic acid, glycolic acid, witch hazel, aloe vera, or a combination of these ingredients. Some of these products may come in a roll-on bottle to apply directly to the skin, while others may need to be poured onto a cotton ball.
- If you don't know what product to buy, consult a beautician and ask what she recommends to her customers. You can buy the products in a beauty salon or on the internet.
- Apply the solution to the skin at least once a day, if not more. Try to do this when you get out of the shower, before your skin is covered in sweat or other substances.
Step 4. Treat infections with antibacterial cream
If you suspect that you have infected ingrown hairs, try using an antibacterial cream on them every day. Possible topical treatments are Bacitracin, Neosporin, and Polysporin.
Step 5. Heal scars with Retin-A
Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, can help smooth out the skin and reduce the visibility of scars and irritation marks.
- You may need to see a doctor to get a prescription.
- Do not use Retin-A if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It can cause severe birth defects.
- Areas treated with Retin-A are more vulnerable to ultraviolet rays. Cover them or wear sunscreen 45.
- Do not use Retin-A in areas where you will be waxing in the future - it can significantly weaken the skin, causing potential tearing during a waxing.
Step 6. Consult a dermatologist
If irritation persists for several weeks after you last shaved, make an appointment with a dermatologist.
Method 2 of 3: Preventing Razor Irritation
Step 1. Throw away any razors that are no longer sharp
A dull (or even rusty) razor can prevent a clean shave by plucking the hair instead of cutting it and irritating the skin around the follicles.
Step 2. Shave at least once every 2 days
Shaving every day can irritate newly formed pimples, so wait and use the razor again the next day. If you can afford it, shaving every 3 days will do your skin even better.
Step 3. Exfoliate, gently
Exfoliation will remove all dead cells and other materials from the skin, promoting a clean, close-to-skin shave. You can use a brush, a loofah, a glove or the exfoliating object of your choice.
- If your skin is sensitive, exfoliate it on days you don't shave.
- If your skin allows you to exfoliate without suffering irritation, try doing it right before you shave.
Step 4. Don't press the razor against your skin when you shave
Applying pressure may not make the razor stick to the skin evenly. Instead, try to hold it lightly and "slide" it over your bikini line.
Step 5. Try not to go over the same spot twice
If you have left too many hairs not to go over, sparse in the direction of the hair and not against the grain.
- Shaving against the grain means moving the razor in the opposite direction to the growth of the hair. For example, many people shave against the grain when passing the razor from ankle to knee.
- Shaving in the direction of the hair creates less irritation, but does not allow for a similar short shave. Try to use this technique every time you walk over an already shaved spot.
Step 6. Shave in the shower
The steam from a hot shower will serve two purposes: it will make your hair softer and your skin less sensitive to cuts and irritation.
- If you usually shave first, consider rearranging your routine to leave it for last. Try to spend at least 5 minutes in the shower before you start shaving.
- If you don't have time to take a shower, soak a towel in the hottest water you can handle, and wet the area you are about to shave. Try to leave it on your skin for 2-3 minutes before shaving.
Step 7. Use shaving cream (or a substitute)
Shaving cream can soften your hair and make it easier to remove (as well as help you locate spots you've already shaved).
- Find a cream that contains aloe or another moisturizing compound.
- If you're in a hurry and don't have shaving cream, use a hair conditioner instead. It will be better than nothing!
Step 8. Rinse with cold water
Ending the shower with cold water, or using a cold towel on the area, will cause your pores to close, which will be less vulnerable to irritants and infections.
Step 9. Dry the area
Don't rub too hard with a towel. Instead, pat yourself dry; you will irritate the skin much less.
Step 10. Spray some deodorant on the area (optional)
Some people claim that putting some deodorant on your bikini area when you're done shaving (like you would under your armpits) can help reduce irritation.
Method 3 of 3: Long-Term Prevention
Step 1. Consider waxing
You may still notice some ingrown hairs after waxing, but the tip will be made up of new fine hairs, instead of coarse hairs that have simply been clipped.
- If you decide to wax, try to make an appointment every 6 to 8 weeks at first. You may be able to wax more infrequently over time.
- Choose a beauty salon or reputable professional to wax you. Ask your friends or read online reviews.
- Be prepared for what awaits you. Your skin will likely be red and irritated after the procedure, but you shouldn't have any open wounds or large dark bruises. Also, if you notice that your skin becomes infected 1-2 days after your appointment, start applying an antibiotic cream and notify the salon right away.
Step 2. Consider laser hair removal
Contrary to popular belief, laser hair removal will not completely remove your hair forever. However, it will reduce its growth significantly.
- Be aware that laser hair removal works best on dark hair and light skin. If your skin and hair are too similar in color you may not be a good candidate for this treatment.
- Laser hair removal is expensive and you will need at least 4-6 treatments. Get a quote and maybe look for special offers.
Advice
- Avoid products with talcum powder as they are fine and may irritate the skin even more.
- There are products on the market for use after shaving that should reduce the likelihood of irritation. Not all people who have tried them testify to their effectiveness.
- Don't use cheap razors.
Warnings
- Do not use tweezers to remove ingrown hairs. Doing so can result in infection and scarring.
- It is best to consult a doctor before using a needle to remove ingrown hairs. Piercing the skin with a needle, even a sterilized one, can be harmful if you don't know what you're doing, and any mistake in sterilization can mean an infection.
