Response to reader - What to do about razor bumps (Part 3)

Hello Dr Campbell-Chambers,

I was reading your online post regarding shaving, waxing and ingrown hair bumps. It was very informative and helpful. I am 34 and have been shaving my pubic area since college. I am a runner and the uniforms I'm required to race in are often like bathing suits. I have these unsightly hair bumps and scars from previous shaving experiences on my bikini line, and even when I shave, some bumps reappear.

My hair is very coarse and curly and I know the hair grows under my skin. Could you please give me some advice on what I can do to get rid of the scarring along my bikini line and prevent future bumps and scarring? I have become so self-conscious of the bumps and dark scarring that I wear shorts to the beach and only race in shorts, which I would prefer not to do. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your attention.

Dear Reader,

In our last two articles, we mentioned various hair-removal options and noted that laser hair removal was considered the best at preventing ingrown hairs. Other methods, like shaving, waxing, tweezing, electrolysis and hair-removal creams, are used by some individuals but have greater risks of irritation, bumps, dark spots and scarring.

I believe that the 'dark scarring' you mentioned refers to the increased pigmentation or dark spots that remain after the bumps or irritation resolved in those spots.

Bikini line appearance

A scar is made up of fibrous tissue that replaces normal skin after inflammation/injury. It usually appears shiny with a different texture. It may be darker, lighter, reddish, sunken, flat or raised. A keloid scar is raised and extends beyond the original area of injury/inflammation.

Since the appearance of your bikini line bothers you and affects what you wear to race, it might be best that you visit a dermatologist for individualised help. Medication like topical/oral antibiotics, topical retinoids and moderate topical steroids and procedures like multiderm microdermabrasion can help treat your existing bumps.

Dark spots can be treated using a medicated mixture of hydroquinone, a topical retinoid, and also a moderate topical steroid to counteract potential irritation in the bikini area with the first two products. You can test products on a small area a few days before treating the entire area. It may take four to six weeks to see improvement, which may be even better in three to six months. A break should be taken after this period as directed by your dermatologist.

There are other products which are used to treat dark spots, but some may be irritating and most are not as effective as hydroquinone. These include kojic acid, azelaic acid, soy, arbutin and licorice. Potent topical steroids found in many black market bleaching creams, should be avoided. You should also avoid picking or digging the skin. Sunscreen should be used to prevent dark spots getting darker. Scars can be treated with injectable corticosteroids, silicone sheets, surgery, laser and/or dermal needling.

All the best.

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