Shaving bumps are a very common problem, and they can occur on any part of the body that is regularly shaved. Even though it may seem to the average person as though they are part of life, there are a few useful tips for preventing shaving bumps. Implementing these tips may make the shaving process take longer, but some people find that it's well worth the trouble. To have the best chance at avoiding red bumps from shaving, a person should prepare her skin properly prior to shaving, use a sharp razor, and try to remove the hair by shaving in the direction it grows. It's also a good idea to use some type of lotion on the skin after shaving.
Preparing the skin before shaving is probably the most important aspect of preventing shaving bumps. It's a good idea to warm the skin up first with warm water to make the pores expand, which should loosen the shaft of the hair. The next step is exfoliation, and this can be done with either an exfoliating cream, loofah, or pumice stone. These items will slough away dead skin cells, which tends to make for a smoother shaving surface. After the skin is prepared, the shaving process can begin.
Shaving bumps tend to occur more often when dull razors are used. A good rule of thumb is to replace razors at least once every two weeks or possibly every week if they are used often. Sharp razors work best for getting a good shave, but caution should be exercised with razors that are brand new because these may be most likely to cause nicks and cuts. Preventing shaving bumps is also easier when a person takes her time as she shaves. It is also advisable to shave in the direction the hair grows, but this may be fairly complicated on the face and bikini areas where hair tends to grow in all different directions.
After shaving, it's important to apply some type of moisturizer to the area that was shaved for preventing shaving bumps. Almost any type of lotion will do, but lotions containing aloe vera may be particularly helpful. Aloe vera is a natural skin soother, and the skin is usually slightly irritated after shaving. There are several different types of aftershave lotions containing aloe vera that men may find beneficial to use after shaving their faces.