Razor bumps—those irritating, inflamed, sometimes painful bumps that appear after shaving—can feel like the ultimate betrayal after your grooming routine. Smooth skin? Not quite. But with the right techniques and dermatologist-backed advice, it’s possible to not only treat razor bumps but prevent them from forming in the first place. Here’s everything you need to know to stop shaving irritation in its tracks.
What causes razor bumps, really?
Before you can fix razor bumps, it helps to understand what they actually are. According to New York-based dermatologist Dr. Elyse Love, the term razor bump refers to two common issues: skin irritation from shaving and ingrown hairs.
The first is pretty straightforward—when you shave with a dull blade, skip shaving cream, or go over the same spot repeatedly, you can create microtears on the skin’s surface. The result? Redness, rough texture, and discomfort. The second issue is a bit more complicated. Ingrown hairs occur when a hair curls back into the skin instead of growing out, leading to painful, often red or skin-toned bumps at the follicle. “This causes inflammation,” Dr. Love says, and in some cases, it can even resemble acne or infection.
Certain body areas are more prone to these bumps than others. “Razor bumps occur more frequently in places where skin folds and moisture builds up—like the underarms or bikini line,” says Dr. Lily Talakoub, a dermatologist at McLean Dermatology and Skincare Center. Areas with thicker or coarser hair, such as the face, neck, or groin, are especially susceptible. Esthetician Sai Demirovic, co-founder of GLO Spa NY, adds that people with naturally curly or coarse hair—and particularly those with darker skin tones—are more likely to experience frequent and painful ingrown hairs. “Curly hair tends to grow back into the skin more easily,” she explains.
The best skincare ingredients and treatments for razor bumps
So, what can you do once the bumps have appeared? According to Dr. Love, anti-inflammatory ingredients should be your first line of defense. “Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream is helpful for short-term use,” she says, “but if the bumps persist, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for a prescription treatment.”
Beyond inflammation, exfoliation is essential—especially when dealing with ingrown hairs. Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) like lactic, glycolic, and salicylic acid can help slough off dead skin cells that trap hair beneath the surface. Dr. Love recommends products like Dr. Dennis Gross’s Alpha Beta Exfoliating Body Peel and Nécessaire’s Body Exfoliator, which combine exfoliation with nourishing ingredients.
Demirovic leans on active exfoliants like iS Clinical Active Serum or PFB Vanish Razor Bump Stopper, a roll-on formula packed with lactic, salicylic, and glycolic acids. “It helps lift the hair above the surface while also targeting bacteria in the follicle,” she explains. To soothe the skin afterward, aloe vera is a tried-and-true classic that reduces inflammation without clogging pores.
Moisture is just as important as exfoliation. Dr. Love also recommends using a shaving cream with nourishing ingredients—like eos’s Shea Butter Shave Cream, which contains both shea butter and shea oil to support the skin barrier while shaving.
Smart shaving habits to prevent razor bumps
As with most skin concerns, prevention is key. First rule: change your razor often. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced it, it’s probably time. “Using a dull razor is one of the quickest ways to irritate your skin,” says Dr. Talakoub. You should also make sure your razor is stored in a dry, clean area—keeping it in a steamy shower invites bacteria and mold.
Technique matters, too. “Always shave in the direction of hair growth—not against it,” Dr. Talakoub advises. Shaving in the shower, when hair is soft and pores are open, can also help reduce friction and irritation.
Post-shave care is equally important. Demirovic recommends a combination of vitamin E oil and Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion to hydrate the skin and repair the barrier. For areas like the bikini line, Fur Oil is a go-to: “It helps soften hair and soothe skin at the same time.” If ingrown hairs are a recurring issue, Dr. Talakoub likes Tend Skin Lotion, which helps reduce inflammation and prevent future bumps.
Is laser hair removal the long-term solution?
If razor bumps are a consistent problem—despite good razors, careful shaving, and diligent skincare—laser hair removal might be your best long-term option. “It kills the hair down to its root,” says Demirovic. “If the hair’s not growing, there’s nothing to become ingrown.”
Laser treatments don’t just reduce the appearance of hair—they can also minimize hyperpigmentation and scarring caused by previous bumps. While it’s a larger investment upfront, many dermatologists recommend it for those who deal with chronic irritation.
Still, laser hair removal isn’t for everyone. Those with certain skin tones or medical conditions should always consult with a board-certified dermatologist before beginning treatment.
When not to shave—and what to expect in healing
If you already have razor bumps, should you keep shaving? The experts say no. “Shaving over existing bumps can worsen inflammation and increase your risk of infection,” says Demirovic. It’s also painful and can lead to scarring. Give your skin a break, treat the area gently, and let the bumps subside before reaching for the razor again.
In terms of healing time, expect anywhere from a few days to three weeks, depending on the severity of the bumps. While exfoliants and soothing treatments can speed things up, patience is part of the process. And remember: dull razors and rushed routines are the most common culprits.
For a smoother, bump-free future, focus on smart products, gentle techniques, and when in doubt—skip the shave.
