*This tips for preventing razor bumps post is sponsored by Gillette and written by Hubby Azih but as always, all opinions are my own. Thank you supporting the brands that support Sincerely Onyi*
Shaving Sensitive Skin With Gillette® SkinGuard
Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a word that I thought was made up by my wife but after a little research, I found it’s one of the most prevalent skin issues Black men with sensitive skin struggle with. You might know it as razor bumps or ingrown hairs. They’re caused by improper shaving tools and products.
For African American men, wanting to have a very close shave can mean razor bumps over time. Because of our naturally curly hair, a close cut can cause the hair to curl back into its follicle. This, in turn, causes inflammation and swelling around the area. The key to avoiding razor bumps is using the proper tools and a little bit of manly skincare.
Looking for razors that don’t cause ingrown hairs? Check your preferred retailer for savings
Tips For Preventing Razor Bumps In Black Men
Start With A Gentle Exfoliation Every Other Day
My wife has hounded me on exfoliating for years. I may have not listened before, but I’ll now admit that it’s the truth. Exfoliation can be achieved through chemical exfoliators or physical exfoliation with a loofah before shaving. I use a homemade sugar scrub she leaves on the bathroom counter or some of this one she leaves in the shower.
Hot Towel Compress
You can use the heat to open up the pores while the moisture softens the hair and allows for a cleaner cut with the blade of the razor. Exfoliating first will reduce the likelihood of dead skin clogging your pores. Follow with a lubricating shaving cream like Pure by Gillette.
Don’t Cut Hair Too Closely
Use razors that don’t cause ingrown hairs or razor bumps, such as the new Gillette SkinGuard. Like any job or task, you need the right tools to be successful. And a razor not meant for your sensitive skin won’t get you anything but a bumpy face. Gillette SkinGuard is the right tool to keep my face smooth and bump free. Its SkinGuard technology minimizes pressure from each blade. Compared to Gillette’s standard razor, the SkinGuard raises the blade just enough to minimize contact with sensitive skin. It’s also advisable to go over the area with as few strokes as possible.
Use A Topical Retinoid For Existing Razor Bumps
Retinoids can be used to heal the skin’s surface. There are over-the-counter options that may take longer to see results; alternatively, you can visit a dermatologist who can evaluate and prescribe the best treatment that may include a medical-grade retinoid.
Use The Best Razor To Prevent Ingrown Hairs
Razor bumps and razor burn can be pretty frustrating. The new Gillette SkinGuard has been a big part of the solution to my sensitive skin. SkinGuard is their first razor specifically for men with sensitive skin, such as dry skin, irritation, or razor bumps. This razor shaves my hair and protects the skin thanks to its unique SkinGuard positioned between the blades. The precision trimmer on the back makes it even easier to get to hard-to-reach places.
Take it from me, consistency is key to healing and preventing razor bumps. Finding a razor that doesn’t cause razor bumps is an important part of the process, and that’s why I’m using the Gillette SkinGuard razor on my skin.
Do you suffer from razor bumps? Have you tried all of these tips consistently? If so, follow up with a dermatologist.
