Causes of Shaving Bumps

• The chief cause of razor burn is skin irritation. You are, after all, taking a layer of skin along with your hair when you sweep the razor over it. Skin that is already dry, irritated or sensitive, will only become more aggravated by shaving. Another reason you might get shaving bumps are ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs can be caused by shaving too closely by dry, dead skin cells that trap hair in the follicle, or even oily skin.
  
  

Razors and Blades

• Change your blade frequently. A dull blade will only exacerbate skin irritation. Don't use razors with three or more blades. These razors lift the hair, cut it and then drop it too far below the top layer of skin. Try electric razors; they cause less irritation and may give you a smoother shave.
  
  

Shaving Methods

• Shave with the grain, not against it. You will only irritate the follicle if you shave against the direction your hair grows. Don't pass the razor of an area more than once---the more you scrape over one area, the more irritated it will become. Switch to hair removal creams. Yes, they smell and are messy, but they also don't irritate your skin as much.
  
  

Pre-Shave

• Before you shave, take a hot bath or shower. Hydrated skin is less likely to become irritated. Use shaving cream or gel, not soap. If you run out of shaving cream, you can use your hair conditioner in a pinch, it lubricates and hydrates better than soap. If you are prone to razor burn, use an acne medication with benzoyl peroxide on a daily basis.
  
  

Post-Shave

• Use lotion on a daily basis---hydrated skin is healthier and less likely to become irritated. Use a tea tree oil aftershave to sooth and kill bacteria. If you do get razor bumps, hydrocortisone, used sparingly, can help take the red out of the rash. If you get ingrown hairs, lift them with a sterilized needle just before shaving.