How to Prevent Razor Bumps on Neck

Nobody likes a hairy neck and when it comes to removing unwanted growth – precision and caution are two of the most important parts of the process. If you aren’t careful – you may come in contact with the irritating sight of pimple-like bumps that form after a fresh shave. Pseudofolliculitis barbae – better known as “razor bumps” – can attack the neck of every man, but is most likely to strike African Americans and men with coarse, curly hair.

Obstacles to Overcome

When shaving the neck, main obstacles to consider include:

unsanitary equipment
pre-existing lumps and bumps
rippled skin
growth patterns of coarse, curly hair
having someone else shave your neck

Razor Bump Prevention – Neck

The neck is a pretty tricky place to successfully shave without encountering a rash of razor bumps – especially if you are an African American male. When tackling this part of the body, cross your fingers and follow the razor bump prevention suggestions listed below:

a) Apply Hot Compress:

To prepare the hairs on your neck for less aggravating results after a shave, apply a hot compress to soften hairs and open pores – all of which can prevent the formation of razor bumps. A shower filled with steam is another effective method to consider.

b) Exfoliate:

When you exfoliate the neck on a daily basis, you can remove the dead skin particles that hinder the success of shaving.

c) Stay Away from Over-Shaving:

Avoid going over the same area of skin more than two times when shaving, as this will improve your chances of not developing razor bumps that come when the skin becomes irritated and inflamed. When shaving the neck, allow the razor to gently glide over the skin, as any pressure can cause unwanted irritation and razor bumps.

d) Pre-Shave Oil:

Some people have benefited from using a pre-shave oil to prepare the neck before shaving. This added lubrication helps the razor slide across the surface of the skin in a manner that brings less irritation.

e) Shaving Methods:

Instead of using a straight razor to shave your neck, consider using clippers with multiple settings.

f) Clean Blades:

Rubbing alcohol is a good way to clean off blades and razors in an attempt to prevent razor bumps from forming after a shave. Bacteria is known as one of the main causes of pseudofolliculitis barbae. If you visit a barber to get your neck shaved – make sure the clippers are cleaned with an antiseptic product that removes bacteria left behind by previous clients. Unsanitary clippers are actually a common downfall of African American males trying to prevent razor bumps on the neck.

g) Follow the Grain:

The chance of developing razor bumps decreases when you shave in the same direction that your hair grows.