7 Ways to Shave: No Bumps and Ingrown Hairs

Shaving shouldn't come with itchy bumps and painful spots, but for many people, it does. Razor bumps and ingrown hairs are more common than you’d think, especially for people with curly or coarse hair.

They can hurt and even lead to dark spots or scars if ignored. Thankfully, with the right shaving habits, tools, and aftercare, you can prevent razor bumps and ingrown hairs for good.

Here’s how to make your shave safer and skin-friendlier.

Razor bumps, also called pseudofolliculitis barbae, are small, irritated bumps that show up after shaving. They happen when shaved hairs curl back into the skin, causing inflammation. 

Ingrown hairs, on the other hand, occur when hair grows sideways or inward instead of breaking through the skin's surface. The result is always painful, itchy, sometimes pus-filled bumps that can look like pimples.

While both are common on the face, bikini line, armpits, and legs, they’re especially frustrating for people with coarse, curly hair, including many Nigerians.

• Shaving against the growth direction: Going opposite your hair growth direction increases friction and irritation.

• Dull blades: Old razors tug and scrape the skin instead of gliding cleanly over it.

• Dry shaving: No moisture means more friction, cuts, and trapped hairs.

• Poor technique: Shaving too fast, pressing too hard, or going over the same area too many times can all lead to bumps.

• Lack of prep and aftercare: Skin that isn’t exfoliated, cleaned, or moisturised is more likely to react badly to shaving.

Before picking up your razor, learn how your hair grows. Pull your skin tight and look in a mirror. Your hair naturally lies flat in the direction you should shave in. If your hair grows in multiple directions (which is common), gently brushing it daily with a clean toothbrush can help train it to grow more uniformly over time.

Shave at the end of your shower, when the water has softened your skin and hair. Alternatively, apply a warm, damp towel to your face or legs for a few minutes before shaving. This opens up your pores and causes the hairs to swell, making them less likely to curve back into your skin.

• Always shave in the direction of hair growth, reducing friction and irritation.

• Use gentle pressure and avoid going over the same spot more than once.

• After shaving, rinse with warm water and apply a cold, damp towel to calm any inflammation.

If you use disposable razors, replace them after 5 to 7 uses. Dull blades are a major cause of razor bumps. Store razors in a dry place to avoid rust and bacteria. Clean electric shavers after every few uses for the same reason.

Dead skin cells can block hair follicles, forcing hair to grow sideways or back into the skin. To keep the skin clear, use a gentle face, body scrub, or chemical exfoliant (like salicylic or glycolic acid) twice to thrice a week. Just avoid harsh scrubs if you have sensitive skin.

A good option is Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

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• Shaving cream or gel adds protection and moisture between your skin and the blade.

If you have sensitive skin, try Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel

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• Use a cleanser to remove oil, dirt, and bacteria before shaving, especially if you're shaving your face or beard area.

• After shaving, apply a moisturiser or soothing aftershave balm. Look for aloe vera, witch hazel, or tea tree oil, which help calm the skin and prevent bumps.

NIVEA Men Protect & Care Moisturising After Shave Balm is a good option and contains Aloe Vera. Even though it’s marketed towards men, women can use it too.

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If you wait too long between shaves, your hair grows longer and sharper, increasing the risk of irritation. Shaving every 2 to 3 days can help reduce the chance of ingrown hairs, especially for coarse or curly hair types. Just make sure to follow all the prep and aftercare steps each time.

This seems obvious, but it’s often skipped. Dirty or dull razors are breeding grounds for bacteria and cause more skin damage. Replace blades regularly, clean electric shavers frequently, and never share razors.

If your bumps don’t go away, get worse, or turn into painful cysts (a small pocket of tissue that can form anywhere in the body and is often filled with fluid or pus), it’s time to talk to a professional. A dermatologist can offer treatments like antibiotics, exfoliants, or even laser hair removal, ideal for those struggling with chronic ingrown hairs, particularly in sensitive areas like the bikini line or beard zone.