How to Treat Razor Bumps (Pseudofolliculitis Barbae)

Razor Bumps Aren’t Just Annoying—They’re Treatable

1 Big Thing

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB)—commonly known as razor bumps—is a painful, chronic skin condition caused by ingrown hairs after shaving, especially in people with coarse or curly hair. It’s common, frustrating, and often misunderstood as just skin irritation.

Why It Matters

Razor bumps can lead to scarring, dark spots, and constant inflammation, especially on the face, neck, and beard line. And for many, it’s more than cosmetic—it affects confidence, comfort, and even work requirements (like maintaining a clean shave).

Between the Lines

You don’t have to live with constant irritation. Targeted treatment and simple grooming changes can stop the cycle—often in just days.

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Go Deeper

What Is Pseudofolliculitis Barbae?

PFB occurs when shaved hairs curl back into the skin instead of growing outward. The body reacts to the trapped hair like a foreign object—causing red, itchy, and sometimes pus-filled bumps.

Most common in:

• Men with curly or coarse beard hair
• People who shave frequently (face, neck, bikini area)
• Areas prone to friction, shaving, or waxing

Over time, repeated inflammation can lead to:

• Dark spots (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
• Thickened skin or keloids
• Scarring and patchy hair regrowth

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Symptoms of Razor Bumps

• Painful, red bumps or papules after shaving
• Ingrown hairs visible under the skin
• Itchiness, tenderness, or burning
• Pus or crusting if infected
• Dark marks that linger long after bumps heal

👉 If you're seeing these symptoms every time you shave, it’s likely PFB—not regular razor burn.

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What Causes It?

The root issue is hair re-entry into the skin:

• After shaving, the hair is cut at an angle, making it sharper
• Curly or coarse hair tends to curl back into the skin
• The body reacts to this trapped hair, causing inflammation

Poor shaving techniques, tight clothing, or shaving too closely all increase the risk.

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How to Treat and Prevent Razor Bumps

1. Treat the Inflammation and Infection

Prescription treatments can help calm flare-ups fast:

• Topical Clindamycin or Erythromycin: Fights bacterial infection and reduces inflammation
• Tretinoin (Retinoid): Helps clear dead skin cells and prevent new ingrown hairs
• Topical steroids (short-term): Reduce swelling and irritation; stronger options like fluocinonide may be used for more inflamed cases
• Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser: Helps exfoliate and prevent bacterial overgrowth

👉 Many patients benefit from a compounded formula that combines multiple actives in one treatment.

2. Adjust Your Grooming Routine

• Shave less frequently if possible
• Use an electric razor or clippers instead of a blade for a less-close shave
• Shave in the direction of hair growth, not against it
• Avoid multiple passes over the same area
• Always use a lubricating shaving gel and warm water
• Exfoliate regularly to prevent clogged follicles

3. Long-Term Solutions

For chronic or severe cases:

• Laser hair removal can reduce hair growth permanently
• Electrolysis for smaller, stubborn areas
• Topical retinoids and gentle exfoliants for daily prevention

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What Are the Alternatives?

If standard treatments aren’t enough, you may also consider:

• Azelaic acid: Helps with both bumps and dark spots
• Glycolic acid pads or washes: Exfoliate and brighten skin tone
• Niacinamide-based creams: Calm redness and support skin barrier repair

👉 A Well Revolution provider can tailor a prescription formula based on your skin type, hair pattern, and history.

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Steps to Get Your Razor Bumps Treated

1. Free Specialist Consultation

Chat with a Well Revolution specialist to review your skin symptoms and shaving habits.

2. Get a Fast Diagnosis

A licensed provider evaluates your case and determines the best treatment approach—often a custom-compounded formula.

3. Get Your Treatment

Your prescription is sent to your pharmacy or a Well Revolution pharmacy partner for fast home delivery or pickup.

• $50 for one-time prescription care
• $29/month for unlimited care and flare-up support

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You Deserve Smooth, Clear Skin

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae doesn’t have to be a lifelong issue. With the right treatment and grooming changes, you can stop the bumps, fade the dark spots, and finally feel good in your skin again.

👉 Speak with a Well Revolution specialist today to get your razor bumps diagnosed and treated—quickly and discreetly.

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