Razor Bumps: Causes, Treatments and Prevention Tips For Bearded Men

Razor Bumps: Causes, Treatments and Prevention Tips For Bearded Men

When you’re growing your beard out, the last thing you want to see is little red bumps poking through your facial hair. In addition to throwing off your look, razor bumps can be itchy, uncomfortable and even painful.

So, why do men develop razor bumps on their face and how can you get rid of them quickly if it happens to you?

Royal Shave breaks down everything you need to know about razor bumps and shares preventative tips to combat their development in the future.

What are razor bumps?

Ryal Shave explains razor bumps

The scientific name for razor bumps is Pseudofolliculitis Barbae. This ingrown hair condition occurs when hair gets trapped under the skin, causing added pressure and forming razor bumps on the skin’s surface. 

In some cases, the hair never breaks through the skin’s surface, instead curling into itself and continuing to grow downward. Dermatologists refer to this instance as Transfollicular penetration.

On the other hand, facial hair can also break through the epidermis layer before curling. Razor bumps at this stage often occur when you shave the hair shaft at an angle.

The freshly cut tips are more likely to turn in on themselves and continue growing back into the epidermis layer, which is deemed Extrafollicular penetration.

Why do bearded men develop razor bumps?

Razor bumps are often a result of both genetic and physical care factors. While certain men and hair types have a predisposition to razor bumps, poor shaving habits also make the problem worse.

Incorrect lathering during shaving can lead to your razor tugging and pulling and leaving bumps behind. In addition, cutting the hair too close to the root leaves your sensitive skin exposed and prone to irritation.

Who is more likely to get razor bumps?

Royal Shave explains razor bumps

Unfortunately, the curling aspects associated with the development of razor bumps makes men with naturally curly hair predisposed to the condition.

With black men being the most likely to grow curly beards or stubble, dermatologists claim they are at the highest risk of developing razor bumps and ingrown hair issues. Some dermatologist reports claim black men make up as much as 80 percent of cases.

In addition to curly hair types, men with dry beards are also easy targets because snags are more frequent during shaving. Similar to curling ribbon at Christmastime, running scissors or a razor along a rough surface causes the hair to spiral and turn on itself.

What can I do if I develop razor bumps?

If you are visiting this article because razor bumps are already an issue residing on your beard, there are steps you can take to reduce their appearance and irritating symptoms.

First, avoid shaving while your razor bumps are healing. Cutting the hair shaft while it is irritated can cause pain and lead to infection.

Instead, relieve the pressure from your razor bumps by using a sterile needle to pop the bump and release the trapped hair. Gently wash your face afterwards to clear out any leftover irritants clogging the area.

To speed up the healing process in more serious cases, a trip to your doctor or dermatologist may be helpful. They can provide creams and antibiotics to provide more targeted healing and restore your beard’s appearance.

Preventative razor bumps tips

While you can’t change your genetic predisposition to razor bumps, there are grooming habits you can address to better your chances of keeping inflammation at bay.

1. Always wash your face and lather before shaving.

hr_423-009-00_main_900xBefore shaving your beard, it is important to get rid of the leftover dirt, oils and irritants.

Washing your face clears out your pores and provides you with a smooth canvas to shave on.

You can also use a wash cloth to gently exfoliate your face if needed.

In addition to washing your face, it is important to properly lather it with shaving cream.

The added moisture barrier avoids awkward tugging or pulling and the development of uncomfortable razor bumps.

Using a shaving cream designed for sensitive skin helps ensure your shaving cream isn’t the hidden culprit causing irritation. Typically, sensitive-skin products are free of harmful allergens or parabens that cause inflammatory reactions.

Shaving oils are also useful for men who develop razor bumps. The added oil locks in moisture, protecting your face before coming into contact with clippers or a razor.

2. Use clippers or a single-blade razor to control length.

When you have the choice between using clippers or a razor, clippers are more effective at reducing razor bumps because you can set the length and maintain an even cut.

However, if a razor is your only option, it is best to use a single-blade razor. While it may seem like you get a smoother finish with a multi-blade razor, in reality each blade is responsible for a separate layer of your hair.

The first blade collects and pulls the hair up, while the second blade chops through the hair shaft. On straight, soft beards this offers a sharp clean-shaven look.

However, on curly beards, the separated slicing style creates curling and often leaves razor burn and bumps behind. Therefore, a single-blade razor offers more control and focuses the shaving process for men prone to these issues naturally.

3. Go with the grain and use gentle strokes.

During the shaving process, your techniques also matter. Shaving with the grain, or in the direction your hair grows, and using gentle strokes is especially important for men who commonly develop razor bumps.

Tugging hairs in the opposite direction with a heavy hand creates frizz and causes them to continue growing irregularly. Instead, choose a heavier razor and allow its weight to do most of the work.

4. Re-add moisture after stripping back hair.

Royal Shave explains razor bumps

After the shaving cream and hairs transfer from your face to your sink, it’s important to reconsider moisture.

Despite using shaving creams or oils prior to shaving, once your clippers or razor makes contact with your face, necessary moisture is stripped away.

To keep razor burn’s rash and razor bumps from developing, finish the process by applying a gentle after-shave to your beard area.

The Daimon Barber Cooling Post Shave Balm uses menthol for a cooling post-shave effect. In conjunction, its ingredients include a blast of vitamins, antioxidants and nutrients to revive your beard’s appearance and skin strength.

5. Shave regularly to avoid curling time.

Finally, it is important to keep up with a regular shaving routine. While you should reduce shaving when razor bumps are actively present, keeping a regular routine beforehand can actually halt them from showing up in the first place.

After all, when you stick to a shaving routine, there is less time in between each shave for hairs to curl and grow inward. The ideal time between shaves should be no more than three days.

Now that you understand why razor bumps develop, who they affect the most and how to combat them when they arise, putting your best face forward will be a bit easier. Following the tips above can help restore your beard appearance and your confidence.

Royal Shave shares Father's Day gifts

From Bathroom to Barbershop: Four Professional Barber Tips to Try at Home

From Bathroom to Barbershop: Four Professional Barber Tips to Try at Home

Hot Towels

Arguably one of the best parts of visiting a barber is the hot towel service. Nothing is more luxurious or satisfying for the start of your prep routine like a nice hot towel. Recreating a hot towel service at home is simple- all you need is a towel and a bowl of hot water or towel warmer.

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Photo via Instagram/ @akinbarber

Start by grabbing a small towel. To get a relaxing experience place 2-3 drops of an essential oil like lavender, eucalyptus, or sandalwood on the towel at this step. Thoroughly wet the towel with water and ring out the excess with your hands. Next, fold the towel in half and roll it up like a sushi roll. Place the damp towel in a towel warmer or warm water A microwave can be used to warm the towel, too. We recommend about 30 sec. Always use caution and test the hot towel on the inner part of your forearm before placing the towel on your face or neck.

Once the towel reaches your desired level of warmth, apply the towel to your face and hold it there until it starts to cool. If you’ve applied essential oils, take some deep breaths and relax, oils like lavender are relaxing while sandalwood is a memory booster. Once the towel cools down, set it aside to use again at the end of your shave.

For more information on hot towels, head over to How to DIY a Barbershop Hot Towel Treatment at Home.

Dry Your Hair Like a Pro

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One of the biggest hair health mistakes most people make is the way they dry their hair. Most shampoo commercials would have you believe that the best way to dry your hair is to vigorously rub your head with a towel. Vigorously rubbing hair while wet can roughen the cuticle of hair, causing frizz. This can lead to permanent damage, like split ends or breakage  

To dry your hair like a professional, start by taking handful sized sections of hair with your towel and gently squeezing the water out. Repeat small section by section until you’ve dried your entire head. At this point your hair is about 50-75% dry, which is the perfect time to add styling product.

Maintaining Your Neck Line

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Nothing makes a haircut look more unkempt than a messy neckline. After a visit to the barber, your neckline will be clean with no hairs along your neck. However, maintaining a clean neckline between visits to the barber chair is a an extra step you can take keep looking sharp.

The most important thing to remember when you are maintaining your own neckline is to make sure you don’t cut into the hair line. The hair line is the line that separates your hair from your neck. Avoid the hair line and only cut the hairs that appear below the hairline on your neck.

Prior to shaving you will need a few supplies- a hot towel, shaving cream, and a sharp razor. Start by applying a hot towel to your neck. After the towel cools, remove it and apply a shave cream like D.R. Harris Shaving Cream. Now you are all set to shave your hairline. Just remember to shave with the grain.

Shave Like a Master Barber

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Getting a professional shave is a wonderful and luxurious experience. Master barbers spend years perfecting their craft, and their life is dedicated to the art of men’s grooming. Even if your barbering skills are not at a professional level you can incorporate professional techniques into your own shave routine.

The art of shaving takes precision, so make sure you have enough time set aside to be precise. Start with prepping the hair and skin with a pre-shave oil like Truefitt and Hill Ultimate Comfort Pre-Shave Oil. Pre-shave oil softens the hair and allows a smooth surface for your shave cream.

When it is time to apply a shave cream use a brush. Shaving brushes lift the hairs away from your face which allows for a closer shave and prevents ingrown hairs. When you have finished your shave, take the hot towel you had used prior and apply the now cold towel to your face. This will close your pores and soothe your skin, reducing redness, post shave irritation, and acne. Finish up your shave with a splash of aftershave for disinfection and a light moisturizer to keep your skin smooth and you’re ready for your day.

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Dental Care: Here’s How to Maintain That Million Dollar Smile

Dental Care: Here’s How to Maintain That Million Dollar Smile

Like American actress Connie Stevens once said, “Nothing you wear is more important than your smile.” However, boosting your appearance and confidence isn’t the only thing your pearly whites are good for. In fact, teeth are responsible for helping your food make its way to your stomach, providing the essential energy necessary for your body and mind to function. That’s why proper dental care is mandatory.

To make things easy, here at Royal Shave we compiled everything you need to know about your teeth and how to best care for them.

From baby teeth to pearly whites

Royal Shave shares dental care

Photo via Instagram / @blondesandcookies

Throughout your lifetime, you have two sets of teeth: your baby teeth and your permanent teeth. While your teeth start sprouting around six-months-old, they actually begin developing before you are born.

Children have 20 baby teeth that they typically lose between the ages of six to 12. These teeth include incisors, molars and canines.

First to appear around six-months-old are the incisors, the four top and four bottom teeth in the front of your mouth that are responsible for biting food and allowing speech.

Next, babies around a year old grow their molars, which help grind and tear food and maintain the shape and height of their face.

Lastly, the canines, the four sharpest teeth in your mouth, show when a child is around 16-20 months old. These teeth help cut food and aid the digestive process. In addition, they help to support the lips.


Children have 20 baby teeth responsible for cutting and chewing food, maintaining the height of their face and allowing speech.


Luckily for children, teeth whitening isn’t usually a concern. After all, primary teeth grow in smaller and whiter than permanent teeth.

Even though a child’s first set of teeth don’t stay with them throughout their life, it is still important to engage in proper dental care. Decaying baby teeth can lead to problems for the permanent teeth that grow in later.

The key to protecting children’s growing teeth is prevention. When teeth first begin to develop, parents should regularly wipe down their child’s gums so bacteria doesn’t stick to the growing area. Once baby teeth bud, parents can start using a wet toothbrush and eventually move up to introducing fluoride around age three.

Dental care tips for adults

Royal Shave shares dental care

Photo via Instagram / @drbitaortho

After children lose their baby teeth, teens are left with a set of 32 permanent teeth. The 12 additional teeth come in the form of premolars, which develop around age 10, and wisdom teeth, which appear around age 17.

Since permanent teeth are the final natural set a person can grow, it is pertinent to invest in good dental care.

For adults, the following four dental care tips are necessary to avoid yellowing, decay and disease that become more of a risk as your permanent teeth gain more exposure to foods and irritants.

1. Fight tooth decay with fluoride toothpaste.

 

First, finding a fluoride toothpaste helps revitalize the enamel of your teeth, which is the barrier that guards teeth against acids. Fluoride stops bacteria from feasting on the food left on your teeth after eating and can reverse the signs of decay.

Marvis toothpaste uses fluoride and mint to remove plaque, tartar and leave a million dollar smile behind.

 

2. Don’t forget to floss.

Royal Shave shares dental care tips

Photo via Instagram / @prinzulrich

Ahh, flossing. It’s the one step everyone pretends to forget. However, flossing isn’t something you should leave out of your dental care routine.

Your toothbrush is good at getting bigger pieces of food and some bacteria off your teeth. However, it’s nearly impossible for it to reach every nook and cranny. That’s where dental floss comes in. The thin thread is much easier to lodge in the lines between your teeth, making sure every last bit of food and bacteria is removed.

3. Use mouthwash to protect your gums.

Dental care doesn’t just involve your teeth. It is also about preserving your mouth and gums. This makes mouthwash an essential item to add to your routine. While saliva offers a natural mouthwash, it often isn’t strong enough on its own to carry away all harmful bacteria.

Moreover, mouthwash is useful for reducing plaque and gingivitis. Marvis mouthwash is useful for people who suffer from dry mouth because of its alcohol-free formula. In addition, it leaves behind a pleasant peppermint smell.

4. Avoid overindulging in candy and sweets.

Royal Shave shares dental care tips

Photo via Instagram / @cestlestyle

An apple away keeps the doctor away. Trading your candy and sweets for an apple will also likely keep the dentist away. After all, apples are great sources of freshness and acidity that reduce bad breath and kill harmful bacteria.

Indulging in too many candies or sweets can cause cavities and quicker tooth decay. However, this doesn’t mean you have to totally pull your kids from participating in Halloween trick-or-treating. In reality, adults are at higher risk for cavities because teeth start to wear down and gums recede over time.

5. Consult a professional.

Royal Shave shares dental care tips

Photo via Instagram / @coreyandthen

While those apples may keep the dentist away for the time being, you shouldn’t avoid going to the dentist altogether. While many people may put this on their priority list next to going to the DMV, the dentist is actually a very valuable asset to your dental care and health.

Regular check-ups and cleaning will keep your teeth in their best condition. In addition, consulting a professional will help you realize your problem areas and which specific areas you should focus on for your mouth.

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Coconut Oil Benefits: Maintaining Moisture in Your Skin and Hair

Coconut Oil Benefits: Maintaining Moisture in Your Skin and Hair

When it comes to caring for your skin and hair, there are a number of factors that can negatively affect how healthy you are. From exposing hair and skin to too much heat from the sun or styling practices to using drugstore products with sulfates or other harmful chemicals, we don’t always treat our bodies very nicely. The results often include dry skin and hair. However, there is a natural solution to restoring your skin’s glow and your hair’s shine. Enter the world of coconut oil benefits.

Here at Royal Shave, we want to share one of the best hair and skin care secrets, utilizing coconut oil. Keep reading to find out more about its properties and how you can implement coconut oil into your routine at home.

What are some of the coconut oil benefits?

Royal Shave shares coconut oil benefits

Photo via Instagram / @epiraforhair

One of the major components of coconut oil is Vitamin E. This is useful at restoring skin’s moisture and elasticity. In addition, it helps protect your skin against aging and sun damage. Moreover, Vitamin E also benefits your hair by working as a strong antioxidant against environmental irritants and increasing circulation in the scalp to promote thicker hair growth.

Coconut oil is also largely made up of fatty acids. For example, its lauric and capric acids work to kill harmful bacteria and fungi and fight off viruses. Because of this, coconut oil is often used in psoriasis and acne treatments. These acids also halt hair loss and help with healthy regrowth.

How does coconut oil benefit your skin?

Royal Shave shares coconut oil benefits

Photo via Instagram / @modelmalay

Coconut oil is nature’s way of restoring your youthful glow. Coconut oil benefits for adding shine to your skin come in the form of removing old makeup, dislodging irritants from your pores and moisturizing dry skin overnight. While it was traditionally designed to clean and prepare your whiskers prior to shaving, Musgo Real Glycerin Oil Soap is an effective cleanser for your entire body. It uses alcohol to disinfect and then restores moisture with coconut, lime and castor oils.

In addition, lotions containing coconut oil work as strong combatants against stretch marks. The most effective time to apply coconut oil to stretch marks is when they are still relatively new and red or pink in color. While it is harder to get rid of older stretch marks, the added moisture still helps to reduce the appearance of scarring.

Lastly, along with adding glow to your skin, coconut oil also reduces wrinkles, making your skin appear even younger and more alive.

How does coconut oil benefit your hair?

Royal Shave shares coconut oil benefits

Photo via Instagram / @katydid003

Royal Shave shares coconut oil benefits

Photo via Instagram / @trevorwayne

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When it comes to coconut oil benefits for your hair, both the tresses on your face and your head thrive with the extra moisture.

First off, coconut oil helps heal dry and brittle strands. Organic coconut oil from the grocery store can easily be applied to your hair and left in overnight. However, using a conditioner with coconut oil is another perfect way to deliver the product to the damaged areas for quicker use. DR Harris Conditioner offers an added bonus because it infuses the coconut oil benefits with aloe vera.

Read More: Find out about aloe vera’s added benefits and why it’s called “the miracle plant”

In addition, coconut oil makes hair appear healthier by adding shine and strength. Using a styling product like Dax Black Bees Wax  will help nourish your hair and soothe the cuticle. Moreover, its natural ingredients also include jojoba oil, which has been used for centuries as a scalp treatment.

Finally, when it comes to beard care, using shaving products with coconut oil allows hair and skin to be cleansed and exfoliated before removal. This reduces uncomfortable itchiness associated with dandruff and frizz. Moreover, using a beard oil with the powerful but gentle ingredient will serve you coconut oil benefits throughout the day. Truefitt & Hill Natural Conditioning Beard Oil combines coconut with avocado, jojoba, sesame and argan oil.

Royal Shave shares coconut oil benefits

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