The Connection between Shaving Bumps and the Breakout of Acne

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is the acne-like breakouts which are commonly called “shaving bumps”. This happens as an outcome of inflammation in the hair follicle which is caused by shaving. After you shave, wax or pluck, hair gets caught within the follicle. As a result of this you will feel irritation and swelling.

Anybody can catch shaving bumps, but it is more frequently found in people with curly hair. Luckily these “shaving bumps” can be prevented and if you follow certain easy steps, then you can become skilled at how to shave smartly and have less number of breakouts.

Before starting to shave, it is essential to prepare the skin by washing it with lukewarm water. The water will help to hydrate your skin making it suppler and the warm water will expand your blood vessels and this will bring more blood flow to that part. Several people have found that when they shave in the shower, this kind of acne breakout is less.

You can help diminish Pseudofolliculitis barbae by using the right shaving cream. Filmy or thinner type shaving creams can help the razor glide over the skin with ease, therefore reducing irritation.

It is also vital that you choose a good razor. Electric razors are the best. Although your shave may not be as close, irritation will definitely be reduced. If you insist on using a blade, make sure to use a single blade and replace it every time. Razors with double or triple blades actually lift the hair from the follicle, causing a shave that is below your epidermis. To counteract this, your skin covers the follicle opening as a healing process. This causes irritation when the hair begins to grow back and tries to force its way through the skin that has covered the opening of the follicle.

Shaving with the grain is another way to reduce inflammation. This is applicable for both men and women. While shaving always shave down, and not up. If you carry out your shaving in this manner, it will cut down on irritation and may possibly help in reducing scratches and cuts. Always bear in mind the fact that closer you shave, there is more chance of getting shaving bumps.

To condition your skin after shaving, apply an antibacterial gel or alcohol-free toner. There are also gels made with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Any of these will help destroy any bacteria before it can enter into open follicles. This will go a long way in preventing Pseudofolliculitis barbae before it can start.

Performing these steps can definitely help prevent the formation of Pseudofolliculitis barbae in most people. If they do not work and you are still getting shaving bumps, talk to a dermatologist. He will probably be able to recommend more aggressive treatment.