Razor bumps are small, red, inflamed bumps that occur after shaving. They develop when coarse, curly hairs curve back into the skin after being shaved, causing irritation and inflammation.
While razor bumps themselves are not dangerous, leaving them untreated can lead to some unwanted consequences:
- Increased inflammation and discomfort: Untreated razor bumps can become itchy, sore, and inflamed. This can make shaving even more difficult and uncomfortable.
- Darker pigmentation (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation): Inflammation caused by razor bumps can lead to areas of darker skin, especially in people with darker skin tones. This discoloration usually fades over time, but it can take weeks or months to completely resolve.
- Scarring: In severe cases, especially with repeated irritation, razor bumps can lead to scarring. This scarring can be permanent and disfiguring.
- Increased risk of infection: Razor bumps can become infected, especially if you pick at them. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, pus, and pain.
Exfoliating involves removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. It plays a crucial role in preventing razor bumps by clearing the way for hair growth, dead skin cells can accumulate and block hair follicles, increasing the likelihood of trapped hairs growing inward. Regular exfoliation keeps follicles clear, allowing hairs to emerge smoothly. Additionally, it helps reduce inflammation caused by trapped hairs, preventing further irritation
