Pseudofolliculitis barbae is the acne-like breakouts which are commonly called "shaving bumps". This happens as an outcome of inflammation in the hair follicle which is caused by shaving. After you shave, wax or pluck, hair gets caught within the follicle. As a result of this you will feel irritation and swelling.



Shaving bumps can occur any time, but they have a tendency to affect those who have curly hair. These "shaving bumps" can be prevented, however, and you can learn to "shave smart," causing yourself fewer breakouts.

You should always start with warm water when you are going to shave. This will allow your skin to get hydrated to make it more pliable; in doing so, you will also be increasing the flow of blood coming into the area you are preparing to shave. In order to achieve these effects, many have found shaving in the shower to be helpful.

You can help diminish Pseudofolliculitis barbae by using the right shaving cream. Filmy or thinner type shaving creams can help the razor glide over the skin with ease, therefore reducing irritation.

It is also vital that you choose a good razor. Electric razors are the best. Although your shave may not be as close, irritation will definitely be reduced. If you insist on using a blade, make sure to use a single blade and replace it every time. Razors with double or triple blades actually lift the hair from the follicle, causing a shave that is below your epidermis. To counteract this, your skin covers the follicle opening as a healing process. This causes irritation when the hair begins to grow back and tries to force its way through the skin that has covered the opening of the follicle.

Try getting in the habit of shaving with the grain. For both men and women, this means shaving down, instead of up. Doing this will cut down on irritation and may help reduce nicks and cuts, too. Remember the closer you shave, the more likely you are to get shaving bumps.

After your shaving is over, you may have to put a gentle alcohol-free toner (or witch hazel) or antibacterial gel. This will help to destroy the bacteria prior to it getting into the open follicles, and this helps you to prevent Pseudofolliculitis barbae before it begins. You get Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid in gel form and this averts Pseudofolliculitis barbae.

If you follow these simple steps, then you will reduce the chances of a Pseudofolliculitis barbae outbreak in most people. Even after trying out these steps, if shaving bumps are still persistent, then you should seek advice from a dermatologist. They will be able to recommend a more effective topical acne treatment.