Razor bumps

Razor bumps are small lumps on the skin that form after you have shaved. They are strands of hair that curl back on themselves and begin to grow down into the skin. 

They are very common and most people will experience them throughout their lifetime. It particularly affects people who have naturally thick hair growth. 

Razor bumps signs and symptoms:

Razor bumps only happen after you shave when small, irritated bumps form on the hairless skin. Using a small, clean needle can release the trapped hair shaft which stops the razor bump from forming. The bumps are likely to reappear when you next shave

The only way to fully stop them is to stop shaving. 

Lifestyle tips: 

The best way to avoid razor bumps is to change your shaving technique. 

If possible, shave in a hot, steamy environment, such as when you’re in the shower or bath, as this opens your pores and softens hair follicles. Make sure you create plenty of lather on the area where you’re shaving. 

It’s important to use a sharp razor as the sharper the blade, the fewer strokes you will need to take to remove the hair, causing less irritation on your skin. Shave in the direction of your hair growth as shaving against it increases your chance of creating ingrown hairs. 

Diet tips: 

If you regularly suffer from razor bumps, your skin’s general health could be a factor. 

Eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc. These help to keep your skin healthy and could reduce your chance of inflammation after shaving.

Zinc is needed for your skin to produce collagen. It also helps your tissues repair themselves when the surface of the skin is damaged. Foods such as fish, brazil nuts, turkey and other white meats are rich with Zinc so should be included as a key part of your diet. 

Protein is also vital for healthy skin. When you eat protein, it’s broken down into amino acids which creates new body tissue. Eat the complete proteins such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk, cheese and soy as these contain eight essential amino acids. 

Akoma recommends:

To treat razor bumps naturally, use exfoliants which contain a coarse grain and have antibacterial properties to help prevent the sores from reoccurring.

Akoma Ghanaian Red Palm Exfoliating Soap is great for softening razor bumps as it contains raw shea butter and raw palm oil that moisturisers and rehydrates dry areas.

If you have existing razor bumps, gently rub the soap lather onto the affected area while you shower to release any trapped hairs under the surface of the skin.

After washing, use Akoma Coconut Oil as a deep moisturiser. Coconut Oil helps calm any skin irritation and helps to prevent them in future by softening the area. It can also be used all over the body to smooth other damaged areas of skin.