Dark spots can be caused by hyperpigmentation (more common among people with dark complexions) or by the follicles leaking onto the skin's surface. If you notice dark hair follicles appear after shaving, you may want to try waxing or plucking them with tweezers. The hyperpigmentation caused by razor hair removal is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Dark spots usually go away on their own within a few months, but there are several effective home remedies to lighten the affected area in less time. Try changing your hair removal method to prevent razor burn and ingrown hair, which are responsible for hyperpigmentation. If the problem persists, consult a dermatologist.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Home Remedies
Step 1. Try waxing or using tweezers
The dark spots that appear after shaving can be caused by hyperpigmentation or superficial leaking of the hair follicles. In the second case you can remedy by waxing or plucking the hair from the affected area with tweezers.
Treating hyperpigmentation is a little more complex, as some areas undergo color changes due to irritation or inflammation. Common causes include acne, ingrown hair and bacterial infections
Step 2. Apply broad spectrum sunscreen to the affected area every day
Do this before you go out, especially if you are going to be exposed to the sun. Choose a product with a sun protection factor, SPF, equal to or greater than 30. Exposing yourself to the sun without protection will only make the problem worse.
Step 3. Lighten dark spots with lemon juice
Squeeze the juice of one lemon into a small bowl. Soak a cotton ball and dab it directly on the affected area. Repeat the application twice a day to gently fade dark spots.
- Use fresh lemon instead of packaged lemon.
- Lemon juice contains citric acid, a natural exfoliant. The cells that will form will not be affected by post-shave hyperpigmentation.
Step 4. Apply Vitamin C Whitening Cream
It has more or less the same function as lemon juice. Although the juice is easier to use and less expensive, a cream can help avoid drying or irritating the skin (potential adverse effects of lemon).
Look for a cream that contains between 5 and 10% of vitamin C or ascorbic acid
Step 5. Try aloe vera
If you have a plant, cut a small piece of it and remove the secretion from the inside of the leaves (it has a gel-like consistency). If you don't have the plant, buy pure aloe vera gel from the grocery store or drugstore. Apply it to the affected area, leave it on for 30 minutes and rinse it off with fresh water.
- Apply it to dark spots twice a day.
- Aloe contains natural substances that fight inflammation and promote skin regeneration.
Step 6. Use licorice root extract
Look for an ointment that contains it and apply it to dark spots following the instructions on the package. You can also make it at home by boiling 2 tablespoons of dried licorice root and 1.5 liters of water. Lower the heat, cover the pot and let it simmer for 40 minutes. Apply it to the skin with a cold cloth or compress.
- It's best to consult a doctor before trying licorice root and other plant extracts, especially if you have pre-existing ailments like diabetes. Avoid it in case of gestation or possible pregnancy.
- Licorice root is believed to have inflammatory properties and is effective in fighting skin ailments.
Method 2 of 3: Preventing Dark Spots
Step 1. Avoid dry shaving
Always shave after or during a shower or bath, regardless of which area of the body you want to shave. Hot water weakens the hair and makes it lift off the skin, so that shaving is gentler. Also, always apply a depilatory cream or gel before proceeding to lubricate the skin.
Avoid shaving with just soap and water. It is not enough to lubricate the skin and can cause blemishes, cuts, or other types of irritation
Step 2. Let the depilatory cream or gel work for about a minute before shaving
In this way it will be able to reach the base of each stem. This helps to lift the hair slightly, moisturize the skin and prevent the razor from causing irritation or ingrown hair.
Shaving "raised" hair on moisturized skin is easier. The razor will be less likely to cause irritation or ingrown hairs
Step 3. Use a sharp razor, while avoiding those with blunt blades
Change it every three to six uses, more often if necessary. Check the lube strip before you start shaving. If it has worn out or when you start shaving you notice that the blade is dull, replace it.
Plan to change your shaver after 3-6 uses. It may need to be replaced more often, depending on the quality of the blade and the roughness of your beard
Step 4. Gently shave following the direction of hair growth, regardless of the area
Shaving against the direction of growth can cause ingrown hair, irritation and cuts, all of which are causes of hyperpigmentation. Proceed gently and slowly, avoiding putting too much pressure on the razor.
Rinse the razor with warm water after two or three strokes to prevent too much hair from accumulating between the blades
Step 5. Wash your skin after shaving
Once the procedure is complete, massage a mild cleanser into your skin. Rinse with cold water and pat dry with a towel.
Avoid cleaners that contain alcohol. If you prefer natural products, consider witch hazel water or tea tree oil
Step 6. Finish with a post-hair removal conditioner or moisturizer
Moisturizing after shaving promotes skin healing and helps prevent irritation. Massage the product on the affected area, trying not to overdo it: a veil is enough. Leaving residue can clog pores and weigh down the hair shaft, causing ingrown hair to form.
If possible, use a product formulated for your skin type: normal, oily, dry or sensitive
Method 3 of 3: Consult a Dermatologist
Step 1. Go to your primary care physician for a referral to a dermatologist
If dark spots persist for months and home remedies prove ineffective, consider another solution. Contact your primary care physician for a referral to a dermatologist. You can also search for one online, for example on this site.
If you cannot afford a private visit, go to the hospital, where you will only have to pay a ticket to undergo an exam
Step 2. Discuss your skin care habits with your dermatologist
Explain how you shave, how you care for your skin and what products you use. If the problem is in your armpits, ask them if they need to change antiperspirant or deodorant.
You should also be prepared to talk about other habits, such as nutrition, sun exposure and use of sunscreen, whitening products used
Step 3. Rule out other causes
While you are sure that the spots are due to shaving, you should discuss them with a dermatologist for other reasons. Having a complete blood count and reviewing your medical record with the specialist allows you to make an accurate diagnosis.
- Ingrown hairs, minor and chronic bacterial infections, hormonal and dietary imbalances are among the main causes of dark spots. Your dermatologist will help you figure out how to proceed, whether it's by changing your hair removal method or changing your diet.
- Talk to him about any ailments you have, as they will help him determine the right treatment for you.
Step 4. Learn about targeted treatments for depigmentation
Your dermatologist may prescribe a hydroquinone, mechinol, or retinoid cream. The recipe and concentration depend on your skin type.
These medicines tend to be very expensive and are not covered by any insurance as they have a cosmetic purpose. Ask your dermatologist if there are any generic alternatives
Step 5. Avoid over-the-counter medicines with high concentrations
Some treatments that do not require any prescription are based on hydroquinone or retinol, but you should use them only after talking to a dermatologist. In particular, you should avoid drugs with a hydroquinone concentration greater than 2%.
