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Ways to Get Rid of Pimples After Shaving
Why Do You Get Pimples After Shaving?
Most people use a razor for shaving, since it is an easy and quick way for hair removal. But razors do not remove your hair from the root. It leaves out ingrown hair, which later causes pimples. In these cases, the hair starts to grow, but gets twisted and goes back into the skin. [1] It tends to form painful bumps around itself, leading to pimples after shaving.
Another reason that leads to pimples after shaving is the dead skin cells and sebum oil. After shaving, hair follicles can get stuck inside your skin, due to clogged pores, thereby causing red bumps. Along with red bumps, you may also experience a burning sensation on your skin, tenderness and itchiness. Some may notice blister-like pus-filled pimples as well.
Pimples caused by shaving can happen in almost every part of your body. Apart from pimples, skin rashes are also pretty common after shaving.
How To Get Rid Of Pimples After Shaving?
1. Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that helps to remove dead skin cells from your body. It treats the pimples that are generated due to clogged skin pores. Skincare products containing glycolic acid will clean off the dead skin cells and extra sebum oil from your skin and unclog the skin pores. It will not only help you treat the pimples but also prevent them from returning. [2]
2. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a BHA or Beta hydroxy acid which works very similarly to glycolic acid. It is used in many skin care products to exfoliate the skin surface and peel off the dead skin cells and ingrown hair. Products containing salicylic acid are available over the counter. When you apply salicylic acid on your pimple, it helps the ingrown hair make a way out from the bump. Slowly, the inflammation would reduce and the pimple will fade out. [3]
3. Avocado Oil & Tea Tree Oil
Both avocado and tea tree oil are good for pimples. They have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that fight against the pimple-causing bacteria and also reduce inflammation. You can apply avocado oil and tea tree oil individually on your skin and leave it for 20 minutes. Later, wash your skin with water. You can also mix both the oils and apply it to your skin.
4. Tweezers
After shaving, if you notice ingrown hair inside a bump, you can use a tweezer to pull the hair out. Once the hair is out of the bump, the pimple will also start reducing. However, do make sure that your tweezer is sterilized to avoid infection. Sterilization can be done using rubbing alcohol. After you pull out the ingrown hair, do apply some soothing gel on the pimple.
5. Warm Washcloth
Using a warm washcloth on your pimple is a great option to get rid of it. The warm washcloth will soften the skin and help the ingrown hair to come out from the bump. To do this, take a washcloth and dab it with lukewarm water. Then press the cloth against the pimple. The warmness will reduce the inflammation and also give you relief from pain.
How To Prevent Pimples After Shaving?
1. Healthy Shaving Practices
Preventing pimples after shaving is not difficult. A safe and healthy shaving experience can solve the issue.
- First of all, a clean razor is a must for shaving. Make sure your razor is thoroughly cleaned before and after shaving.
- To avoid any cuts, go slow with shaving. Take your time and carefully shave your body.
- Rinse your body with water before shaving. This will keep the hair softer and it would be easier to shave it off. The smoother your shaving, the fewer ingrown hair you will get.
2. Use Shaving Soap Or Cream
Never dry shave your skin. Always use soap or shaving cream on your skin. It will save you from skin rashes, razor burns and pimples. Dry shaving can irritate your skin and lead to an acne breakout. Soap would soften your hair follicles and it easily comes off when you shave.
3. Warm Shower
If you are planning on shaving your body, then a lukewarm water shower will ease the procedure. A warm water bath will open up your skin pores and help to lock the hydration in your skin. This is a must to prevent pimples. An added advantage is that your hair becomes softer and easy to remove.
4. Apply After Shave Or Soothing Gel
Applying an aftershave toner or any soothing gel is the most essential part of shaving. It moisturizes your skin as well as prevents skin rashes, pimples and other skin issues. Choose a product that is antibacterial and alcohol-free.
How Long Do Pimples Last?
Pimples after shaving are not unusual. It can occur at any time to anyone who shaves but it also goes away within a short period of time. The small-sized pimples take only a few days to disappear. But bigger ones may take up to six weeks. If your pimple is not going on its own even after six weeks, contact a dermatologist and get it checked.
Is It Bad To Shave With Acne?
Yes, shaving with acne can worsen your skin condition. In fact, it is better to avoid shaving directly over the acne. The acne will open up and the bacteria inside the acne will spread to other parts of your skin. Also, if you shave on the acne, it will start bleeding which may leave a permanent scar.
Wrapping Up
Pimples after shaving is not a threatening or serious health problem. But it can be troublesome especially if it appears on the visible areas of your body such as the face. Over the counter toner, gel and lotions containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid will help. Using products that suit your skin type can offer added advantages. You may also go for home remedies like tea tree oil. If the problem still stays, get yourself checked with a dermatologist.
Begin By Knowing Your Skin