We all have body issues, men and women alike.  Aspects of our body we’d like to understand better and presumably change.  Whether it’s razor bumps or cellulite many of us are living with a body issue. While the upside is that it hasn’t affected our self-image, in our acceptance we may have neglected to examine ways of managing our body issues appropriately.

Yello is here to help you.  After asking around, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common body issues faced by men and women.  And, we will present them to you in this new series Body Care. Together we’ll explore their causes and suitable methods of care.

Let’s begin with razor bumps.  We know it’s the bane of every guy’s clean-shaven face.  Those red bumps appear, marring the precise work of your barber not to mention your handsome face.

What is it?

Razor bumps are really ingrown hairs.  For many, when the hair grows out it can suddenly turn back inward, digging into the skin.  Another cause of ingrown hair is clogged hair follicles obstructing the proper growth of hair.  Instead of growing from the skin, the hair grows sideways from dead skin that is blocking their path. Both cause the skin to become irritated and the bumps appear.

Where does it occur?

Razor bumps or ingrown hairs are not restricted to the face.  They occur anywhere you shave whether face, armpits, legs or groin.

How to prevent it?

Firstly, anyone can get razor bumps.  Tight curls or spiral strands are more susceptible. But, we digress.  To help prevent the bumps, moisten your face with warm water and a mild soap. This will soften the hairs and open your pores. Using a thick shaving gel shave with the grain. Basically, in the direction the hair is growing.  Remember don’t stretch the skin.  Also, use fewer strokes and then rinse with cold water. Apply a moisturising cream after shaving.

And, to prevent ingrown hairs caused by blocked follicles use a face scrub before shaving to get rid of the dead skin that’s obstructing their growth.

How to treat it?

We’re not sure you want to hear this, but the most effective way of getting rid of razor bumps is to stop shaving.  We know that’s a hard pill to swallow.  So, if you must shave then pay attention to any bump formations.  You can use a clean needle to release the hair shaft stopping them in their tracks.

For cases of severe ingrown hair, hydrocortisone or antibiotic skin creams are useful. But we advise that you first consult with your dermatologist or physician.

So you go grab your shaving kit and we will say, razor bumps be gone.

And, if you need to pick up supplies for this epic battle be sure to check our pharmacies listing.

Sources: WebMD, Dollar Shave Club