Got Razor Bumps? Let me help.

I get asked often for tips on how I keep my face clear of razor bumps so I decided to write this post. In it you will find a detailed overview of the method(s) that have worked well for me including: links, images, and names of the products that I use.

For starters, It’s important that you pay attention to how your skin operates.

Example:
I know that if I do a full shave on Sunday then typically by Wednesday hair will have already started to break skin, and by Thursday irritation will occur. In this case I would shave on Wednesday. That would give my skin enough time off from the initial shave to breathe, as well as catch the hair before it started growing enough to curl inward. This is also only if I’m not letting my facial hair grow out.

What do I use to shave with?
Although I own both an electric shaver and a few traditional razors, I personally prefer using the traditional ones. With that being the case for me, you should know something that may make a world of difference. Electric shavers don’t put a lot of pressure on your skin compared to regular razors making them more likely to prevent bumps.

Check these out:
· Gillet Fusion MVP
Pros:
- Really close shave
- Great for sensitive skin
Cons:
- the replacement blades are a little expensive compared to other brands.

· Andis Headliner Shaver & Trimmer
Pros:
- You can use it like a razor
- Similar to the Andis T-Outliner at fraction of the cost
- You can use them every other day
Cons:
- No extra blades, so you can’t change the cut height.

***

Like many men, I taught myself how to shave. When I first started shaving I experienced such the break outs because I was doing it wrong! It is extremely important that you make sure you shave in the direction in which your hair grows. I often mimic (even without clippers) the way my barber does my face when ever I ask him to. That may work for you as well.

The Process:
Pre-shave:
In most cases I shave right after I’ve showered. It’s the easiest way to open your pores and soften the hair. Steam it up baby. If I’m doing a midday shave, I normally place a warm towel over my face for about five minutes to basically re-create the shower effect. *Note: when using a traditional (or throw away) razor it is important that you replace the blades often.

Shave:
Before applying my shaving cream I use a lubricating shave oil by American crew.

I swear by this stuff. When I first started using this gel you could purchase it from your local Supercuts, but now I think it’s been discontinued there. Click here to order it from Amazon. It moisturizes skin almost immediately, and has this “yea I’m going to let you know I actually do work” smell to it. I’d advise anyone to try it out.

Post-shave:
Right after I shave I rinse my face with cold water. That shocks the pores and closes them. One thing that I have stopped using over the years is after-shave. My only reason was out of pure laziness, no lie. I did read somewhere though that after-shave clogs your hair follicles, so maybe that wasn’t a bad choice.

Anyway. I use a combination of things on my face after I shave.

Both can be found at your local Walmart.

*Note: I didn’t reference using alcohol.
Most barbers, and old heads will tell you to use 90 % alcohol after shaving.

From personal experience I say don’t use alcohol unless you have a really really REALLY good moisturizer. It dries out your skin, and not only that can cause slight discoloration.

Maintenance:

(in between shaves)

I’ve noticed that using the Bump Stopper 2 twice a day, even on days that I do not shave, keeps the razor bumps either to a minimal or completely invisible.

(growing a beard)

When I’m growing my beard out I do the same as above but I also BRUSH the facial hair about three times a day. Those of you who are familiar when obtaining waves, I use the same concept. Because the hair on your face is curly, brushing it often trains it grow in the direction you want it to. Try this for a month or so, and watch the difference.

Now if you read this full post thank you. :) I hope it helps you add or try something new to your regimen. I am no skin doctor and I a wrote this based on my own personal experience. If you know of a friend who suffers from razor bumps feel free to share this post. Also leave a comment describing some of your own regimens that you’ve used. If for no one else, do it for me. I am all for trying new ways to keep my skin together. Thanks again for checking this post out!

-Ahmier