The Best Way to Safely Get Rid of Razor Bumps Before a Wedding

Even if you've done everything right in your pre-wedding beauty routine—which may include shaving and/or waxing—a couple of bumps along the road are to be expected. But few are more disappointing than razor bumps. Chances are, you’ve experienced this irritation at some point in your life, but it can be disheartening before such an important event, especially when the condition becomes itchy, painful, and tender. 

Razor bumps hurt and are just plain uncomfortable, which can understandably take you out of the moment on your wedding day. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to get rid of razor bumps safely. Ahead, find out how to kick this irritating symptom of shaving—and learn how to ensure it doesn't happen again.

What Causes Razor Bumps?

A razor bump is a small infection that occurs after shaving and the cut hair curls back in on itself, causing the follicle to become ingrown, infected, and/or inflamed. The swelling of the follicle eventually turns into small, red bumps. Waxing can also cause razor bumps, either from contact dermatitis, folliculitis, or ingrown hairs. 

Shaving removes the top layer of skin, and keep in mind that shaving on dry skin can cause your hair to curl inwards more easily. Not enough lather is typically the culprit, but dirty or dull blades can also cause razor bumps to form.

How to Get Rid of Razor Bumps

The first step in saying goodbye to razor bumps is to stop shaving or waxing the area for the next few days, as repeated shaving will only worsen irritation. If your instinct is to exfoliate the bumps away with a process like sugaring, you must resist. This will only cause more soreness and inflammation, as will picking, another big no-no for those tender little bumps. 

Try a Cold Compress

Immediately after you notice the razor bumps, apply a cold compress, which will soothe the skin and reduce the size of the pores. In addition to a compress, a brief soak in a colloidal oatmeal bath can calm and soothe irritation. Wearing loose clothing whenever possible also minimizes friction against the bumps. 

Opt for Hydration

Hydration is your best bet for combatting painful, itching razor bumps. Opt for something soothing and non-comedogenic to avoid any further clogging of the pores, like a fragrance-free lotion or aloe vera. A supercharged plant, aloe vera packs a powerful punch with enzymes that reduce inflammation and antioxidants that nourish the skin. It’s also analgesic, meaning it reduces pain, in addition to its soothing and hydrating properties.

Packed with essential fatty acids and antioxidants, coconut oil is another intensely hydrating option. Be careful with applying coconut oil to your face, though. For those with oily skin, it can be highly comedogenic, further clogging the pores and creating a whole new set of problems. For the bikini line, however, it can work wonders. 

Use a Natural Astringent

Clean, healthy skin is your best defense against razor bumps. Astringent liquids help to cleanse the skin and are fantastic for reducing inflammation. A few dabs of tea tree oil or alcohol-free witch hazel applied with a cotton pad can alleviate redness and discomfort.

Invest in Hydrocortisone Cream or a Specialty Product

A steroid cream, like hydrocortisone, will soothe inflammation from razor bumps, so apply it on top of your moisturizer for some instant relief. Another option, especially for those with razor bumps along the bikini line, is Fur Oil. It’s specifically formulated to be safe for the pubic area and has soothing antimicrobial and antiseptic properties. (You can even use it as a spot treatment for ingrowns.)

How to Prevent Razor Bumps

Understanding how to get rid of razor bumps can, of course, help you prevent them from forming in the first place. Remember that healthy, hydrated skin is key, so following the above tips will get you far.

The next time you shave, plan to apply moisturizing shaving cream or soap for a necessary lubrication barrier. Make sure your razor blade is clean and sharp to avoid having to press down too hard, and always shave in the direction that your hair grows, not against the grain. Don’t forget to take your time! Rushing only increases carelessness and your chances of razor bumps rearing their uncomfortable heads. 

Once you’re done waxing or shaving, always follow up with hydration, whether it's a natural oil, fragrance-free body lotion, or aloe vera gel.