What to do about these razor bumps

By Dr Arusha Campbell-Chambers

Razor bumps are inflammatory reactions to hair entering the skin, mostly in individuals who shave regularly. More than 50 per cent of black males are affected. Other races can also be affected. Although the condition is most commonly reported in men, women also suffer from this condition.

The disorder is caused by genetic factors such as curved hair follicles, curly hair, as well as various hair-removal methods like shaving, tweezing, waxing and electrolysis. These methods either create a sharp hair tip that re-enters the skin away from the hair pore or cause the hair shaft to break off at different lengths and pierce the follicle from within the skin.

An inflammatory reaction then develops in response to the hair fragments lying in the skin. This can cause ingrown hairs, reddish, skin-coloured or dark bumps, and bumps containing pus. In addition, complications such as dark spots, scarring, abscesses and psychological problems may develop. It can be particularly troubling for men who are forced to be clean shaven in the workplace and for affected females.

Laser treatment

Some men choose to grow a beard to cure the disease. However, for persons wishing to remove hair, laser treatment is the best removal method. The laser selectively targets the pigment in hair and destroys the follicle, while leaving the skin intact. Side effects are not common with proper laser use. Possible side effects include spots, temporary bumps, crusting, blistering and scarring.

The NdYAG type of laser is safest in all skin types. Ten to 30 per cent of hairs are removed, with hairs becoming thinner, with each treatment. An average of six treatments, four to six weeks apart, may give more than 80 per cent long-term hair reduction, which has positively changed lives.

Clippers vs razors

Electrical clippers tend to cause fewer bumps than razors. If one chooses to shave, it is important to avoid a close shave to help prevent razor bumps. The following is a guide to safer shaving methods:

1. Brush hairs with polyester sponge before shaving.

2. Wash beard, use pre-shave cream or gel.

3. Avoid double and triple blade razors.

4. Shave in the direction of hair growth.

5. Do not pull the skin taut.

6. Use a sharp blade, rinse after each stroke.

7. Apply a cold compress after shaving, then a soothing aftershave preparation.

Clipping hairs with a small pair of facial/cuticle scissors is an option for individuals with unwanted hairs. Hair-removal creams can be used but may cause irritation. Hair, bleaching creams may lighten hair but may also irritate skin.

Permanent hair removal

Electrolysis is a permanent method of hair removal but requires many sessions. It is operator dependent and can cause bumps, spots and scarring. Waxing and tweezing can also cause these problems.

Eflornithine hydrochloride cream slows hair growth. Hormonal medications can be prescribed in females with male-pattern hair growth. Razor bumps can be treated with over-the-counter and prescription medications which include retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, topical steroids, hydroxyl acids, and procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion and lasers.

Dr Arusha Campbell-Chambers is a dermatologist and founder of Dermatology Solutions Skin Clinics & Medi-Spas; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.