Anti-Acne Shaving Guide
You need a shaving guide for acne? You bet. Here's how to stop beard "bumps" before they start.
Shaving bumps are acne breakouts caused by inflammation in the hair follicle. Their scientific name is Pseudofolliculitis barbae and they occur because the hair gets trapped in the follicle.
Learning how to shave "properly" is the best way to reduce and eliminate your existing shaving bumps, as well as to avoid future outbreaks.
Acne & Shaving - Warm it up. Before you begin shaving, prep the area with warm water. The hydration makes your skin more pliable. The heat will dilate your blood vessels, bringing blood flow to the area. You might also find that shaving in the shower brings better results. Singing is optional.
Acne & Shaving - Lather well. Shaving bumps can also be diminished by using the right shaving cream. Thinner, filmier shaving creams help the razor glide over the skin, reducing irritation.
Acne & Shaving - Use the right razor. If you can, use an electric razor. The shave won't be as close, but you probably won't break out. If you prefer blade shaving, use a new single-blade razor each time you shave. Why single? Double-and triple-edged blades lift the hair out of the follicle for a shave that's actually below the epidermis. As part of the skin's natural healing process, the epidermis grows over the opening of the follicle. Then, as the hair grows back, it has to fight to get out of the closed follicle - causing an inflammatory response.
Acne & Shaving - Go with the grain. The closer your shave, the more likely you are to get shaving bumps. So try to get into the habit of shaving with the grain - this usually means shaving down rather than up. This will cut down on irritation and may help with nicks and cuts, too.
Acne & Shaving - Tone up. When you're done, you may want to apply a mild alcohol-free toner (witch hazel is a gentle alternative) or antibacterial gel. This will kill bacteria before it gets into your open follicles - and help you stop the bumps dead in their tracks. Both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are available in gel form as well.
If you're like most people, these simple practices go a long way toward the prevention of Pseudofolliculitis barbae. If your shaving bumps persist definitely consult your dermatologist.
Proactiv
Proactiv, the world's #1 acne system, uses Combination Therapy® to directly target the root causes of acne - bacteria, oil production, and dead skin cell build up - to heal and soothe acne-prone skin. Developed by leading dermatologists, Drs. Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields, Proactiv clears existing blemishes, treats inflammation and redness, and prevents new breakouts before they start.
Get the smooth, clear, healthy-looking skin you deserve with Proactiv.
- Did you know that fried food doesn’t cause acne? learn more