Razor Bumps on Eyebrows

It is quite common to see razor bumps form on the chin, neck, throat, upper lip, and legs after a shave. However, the anxiety intensifies when this condition strikes the rather visible eyebrow region. Since people tend to look into the eyes when one is talking, you can see why razor bumps on the eyebrows can become a great distraction. According to Men’s Health Magazine, one in 50 men admit to having their eyebrows plucked, shaven, or professionally done. This means that ladies are not the only ones to suffer the small eruptions that emerge when the skin above the eyes has become irritated.

Appearance

Razor bumps that form around the eyebrows are usually smaller than those that gather on the chin, legs, and other parts of the body. Most often, these bumps are mistaken for a simple rash. If you use a razor or other blade to remove the hair on your eyebrows – irritation is often greater in the regions closest to the eyelid. It is rather uncommon to see razor bumps in the eyebrows take on a color other than red in fair skin and brownish to purple in darker shades of skin unless they are infected. Then, the bumps will typically appear whitish to yellowish.

Causes

Both men and women have been known to remove eyebrow hair as a fashion statement. While some people shape their eyebrows by creating thinner lines or arches – others will completely shave off all hair. As a result, the following factors can lead to the development of razor bumps:

a) Clogged Pores:

If you have clogged pores in this region before shaving your eyebrows – you will face an increased risk of razor bumps. For women, a decent make-up remover will keep pores free and clear.

b) Shaving Direction:

When first shaving the eyebrows – follow the same direction as the brow’s growth. It is then suggested to apply the second stroke against the growth to remove any stubble left behind. Sometimes, a clean shave does not remove every single piece of hair you desire. Instead of running over the same spot over and over again – it is advised to use a tweezers to pluck wayward hairs. Pluck hairs upwards when they are situated on the top of the eyebrow. Hairs located below require a downwards motion.

c) Poor Hydration:

Before shaving, the eyebrow requires hydration. Effective preparation includes taking a bath or shower – allowing the steam to soften and hydrate the skin.

d) Razor Sharpness:

If you use a dull razor to remove hair from one of the most delicate parts of the body – you will place yourself at a higher risk for razor bumps. Choose the sharpest razor that you own so that hair is swiftly removed. The number of strokes over the region is also decreased, which can reduce irritation of the skin.

e) Thick Eyebrows:

If you are attempting to shave thick eyebrows, it is probably a good idea to use clippers to trim beforehand. This will aid a better shave when using a razor.

f) Soap:

Using plain soap as a lubricant rather than shaving cream (which maintains its shape and stays out of the eyes) creates an increased risk of razor bumps.

g) Improper Professional Assistance:

It is quite common for people to ask for the assistance of others when shaving their eyebrows. Razor bumps can appear if a professional neglects to remove the residue left behind or forgets to apply a cooling gel after a shave.