When it comes to hair removal, there are so many options. But before you reach for the razor, knowing how to get rid of razor bumps is essential.
While laser hair removal is great for the smug (and cashed-up), who are willing to go through pain ‘similar to a flicking of a hot rubber band’, to achieve hairless results, waxing is for the warriors among us who don’t mind being pinned down while another person rips their hair from the root. (Bikini waxers, we salute you.)
Meanwhile, sweet, easy peasy shaving can be done in a jiffy and doesn’t cost you the earth – but it can cost you your skin if done incorrectly. It’s unlikely that there’s anyone out there who hasn’t suffered from red, itchy bumps post-shave, but the good news is that it can be avoided.
Keep reading to find out how to get rid of razor bumps and how to be a bit savvier with your shave to avoid them in the first place.
Lather up properly
Soap, shower gel, shampoo, moisturiser – if you’re guilty of grabbing whatever is closest to lather up before your shave, this is your first mistake.
“While soap or shampoo may seem like good substitutions, they can be sabotaging the smooth results you crave, and the soaps in shower gels and shampoos can dry out your skin,” says Venus skincare ambassador Dr Anita Sturnham.
“Shave gels and creams are designed to complement the efficacy of their razors. They are rich in ingredients that are hydrating and lubricating to reduce friction when shaving.” In short: Go foam, or go home.
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Never ever dry shave
It sounds simple, but it’s worth spelling out for those who don’t already know this. Dry shaving is a rash waiting to happen – don’t do it. “Dry shaving leads to increased friction between the razor blades and the skin, which can result in redness and irritation,” explains Dr Anita.
Fork out for a fancy razor
We know the 20-pack of razors for a fiver is tempting – not to mention a bloody good bargain – but those budget-friendly blades are almost always guaranteed irritation. “Although a razor may look like a simple grooming tool, the technology that goes into producing good quality ones, behind the scenes, really is quite astounding,” says Dr Anita. “A high-quality razor means that the blades will be carefully designed to deliver the smooth shave that women desire without the irritation.”