Let’s start with a little background on salicylic acid. It does not go as deep as glycolic acid or other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs); it is more superficial. Therefore, as a treatment for razor bumps, it helps to get rid of the crust of skin that grows over the opening that is keeping the hair trapped in the skin.
In addition, salicylic acid breaks down the oils on the skin. As a result, it helps to loosen and unclog the pore where the hair is trapped. It also helps take down inflammation in the area where the razor bumps are present.
Finally, salicylic acid helps to prevent future infections. Razor bumps that may not be puffy at the current time could and most likely will become puffy later on. Including salicylic acid in your skincare routine can help prevent that.
Why are multiple treatments needed?
We have 3 hair growth cycles going at all times in our skin. The razor bumps treated on your first treatment are the bumps that already “bloomed”. There are still 2 other sets of hair awaiting their attempt to surface. One of these sets is just in the development phase, the other is just about to sprout. The latter have the potential to become bumps as well. However, a second treatment will increase their chances of breaking free through the surface.
Pairing your treatment with the use of salicylic acid at home will decrease the amount that would have become bumps.
Are black men more prone to razor bumps than other ethnicties?
In general, beard hair is already more susceptible to ingrown hair. As far as ethnicity, black people often have very textured hair that often coils. At times, rather than the hair pushing through the skin and out the pore, it will be often get pushed back into the skin and start to coil thereby creating razor bumps.
In addition, darker skin tones tend to be more susceptible to keloid scarring. Therefore, there may be an abundance of scar tissue over follicles that might have been damaged through shaving or previous ingrown hair. Susceptibility to keloid scarring contributes to razor bumps.
Will it ever go away permanently?
Unfortunately, razor bumps do not go away permanently. People who get razor bumps are prone to them because of the texture of the hair, plus the skin where the hair is growing is thicker and tougher. As a result, they will always be susceptible to that coil back.
Maintenance Mode
If you’d like to get to a place where you have your razor bumps under control, we recommend starting with 3 sessions. This means coming in every 3-4 weeks for a peel. Get into maintenance mode sooner by using salicylic acid or retinol at home. That will continue the exfoliation process.
What about exfoliating scrubs?
Scrubs are not the best option because the area is usually pretty tender due to shaving. Plus, you want to avoid any grit from getting stuck in the hair. At the very least scrubs are time consuming to remove completely from areas with hair.
Beads and beards don’t mix.
The best option for exfoliation if you have razor bumps is an enzyme exfoliant because it removes the dead surface layer via enzymes, instead of manually scrubbing away. Another option are the clear complexion pads.
Located in Edmonton, Dérmica offers a hybrid skin and beard care treatment- the Beard Facial. This specialized facial for men with beards offers the best of both worlds. It includes all of the essentials of a classic facial along with mild extractions, and a beard shampoo and conditioning treatment.
Beard facials help get rid of buildup consisting of sweat, dead skin, and oil that can lead to an itchy beard. In addition, they clear congested skin by extracting blackheads, milia, and other skin blemishes.
Can beard hair affect the skin underneath?
Yes, beard care is necessary to maintain the skin below healthy. Improper beard care can lead to skin issues, for instance, infection of the follicles. Other examples include fungal infections, ingrown hairs, and folliculitis. Infections are often confused for ‘beard acne’. However, it should be noted that ‘beard acne’ is not a condition and is most likely being mistaken for ingrown hairs.
Folliculitis vs ingrown hairs
Folliculitis is a condition that is characterized by multiple, consistent ingrown hairs. On the other hand, a single ingrown hair is a rare event.
The perfect beard line
Other beard treatments at Dérmica include IPL Beardline Hair Removal. With IPL phototherapy, we are able to permanently shape the beard line with laser precision. IPL treatments zap live hair roots. As a result, regrowth stops in the treated areas.
How can I get rid of ingrown hairs and bumps on my face and scalp?
Let’ start by understanding the cause of these bumps on the scalp…
Razor bumps are often caused by close shaving and barbering techniques. The shaved areas of the skin endure micro-trauma over the protrusion of the hair follicle. The damage is often due to dull blades, excessive pressure, repeated passes, and/or shaving against the grain.
Our skin’s natural response to trauma is to repair and rebuild the damaged tissue, causing a blockage over the opening of the follicle. This blockage prevents the hair strand from breaking through to the surface of the skin. The hair strand will continue to grow and coil back into the skin causing it to swell.
What treatment is recommended for getting rid of these bumps?
Our preferred method to treat scalp folliculitis is with salicylic acid peels or ‘Acne Treatment”. Known for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory benefits, Salicylic Acid is an effective solution for this and other skin conditions.
What to expect during your treatment…
Salicylic acid is applied to the area for 2-8 minutes and can be layered to intensify the treatment. The acid penetrates deep into follicles where it loosens and softens the oils and buildup. This allows for the hair to become dislodged as the skin begins to shed the excess layers above the follicle opening.
The treatment takes 30-45 minutes and may require manual extraction of the trapped hair. The chemical peel process is repeated 3-4 weeks apart until desired results are achieved, on average 4-6 sessions are required for maximum results.
What should I be doing at home?
Products containing Salicylic Acid are great for at-home treatment. Regular use of these products will continue the treatment process and boost results.
TIPS
Proper home care is key for maximizing results and preventing future breakouts. Here are some tips to follow:
Keep the area dry and clean.
Avoid wearing headgear for extended periods.
Do not shave down to the skin with razors.
Use electric trimmers with a guard to avoid close shave.
Exfoliate skin regularly.
Avoid picking at live skin.
While the visibly bumpy appearance on the skin is the most common concern, other far more concerning issues can arise from these bumps on the scalp. These skin flare-ups can cause scarring, permanent hair loss, bacterial and fungal infections. In severe cases, your skincare specialist may suggest a visit with your doctor for testing or diagnosis before commencing treatment.
Our role is to help improve the general health of your skin through professional care, products, and care recommendations. Call to book your complimentary phone consult with one of our skincare specialists!
Located in YEG, Dérmica offers Mens waxing and IPL Hair Removal.
Ode to the dapper man
We would like to begin by expressing my gratitude to the fashion gurus and trendsetters for the reintroduction of the “Dapper Man”! He is fresh, stylish, well mannered, and oh-so distinguished… or so he appears to be, nonetheless, thank you!
Now, how does a young man achieve this level of style and class? Aside from sporting a fancy beard, well-tailored pair of slacks, and a clean tapered fade or man bun, he must be all around “well groomed”- meaning a trip to the spa for a professional men’s hair removal may be necessary. The best options for men in YEG for hair removal are waxing and IPL/Laser hair removal.
Short term hair removal
Traditionally, men’s waxing involves the use of warm wax, typically honey or pine resin-based and cloth strips. The esthetician first preps the area by disinfecting and applying a protective barrier to the skin. The warm wax is then applied using a wooden spatula and covered with a cloth strip; this is referred to as strip waxing or soft waxing. The strip is then quickly pulled off parallel to the skin and voila your skin is left smooth and hair free!
Prior to booking a wax service ensure your hair is at least ¼ inch long, and has not been sunburned, treated with AHA/BHA, or prescription acne medications. Avoid caffeine for a couple hours before your appointment to reduce sensitivity. Results are visible for about 2 weeks, with 4-6 weeks before you are ready for your next visit. After care for waxing includes: avoiding heat, sun exposure, strong/fragranced, lotions, and washes for 24 hours and frequent skin exfoliation.
Long term hair removal
For a permanent solution, opt for IPL/Laser hair removal treatments. These advanced treatments should only be performed by trained and certified technicians, so do your research before going for the bargain service. Shaving is the necessary for most IPL/Laser treatments, so it’s best to have it shaved down prior to appointment.
The tech will begin by disinfecting your skin. Next, she will provide you with your protective eyewear before she goes zapping away. For the following 24-48 hours you will be required to avoid direct heat, perspiration, sun exposure, strong/fragranced soaps, lotions and washes.
Like waxing, ensure skin has not been sunburned, treated with AHA/BHA, or medications/vitamins affecting the skin. Typically you will notice a stunt in the growth of hair, followed by what seems to be continued growth. Four to six weeks after, the hair will begin to fall out. At this point you are ready for your next session. Most men require 6-8 treatments to see maximum results, but of course some machines are built better than others, so results may vary.
These treatments are somewhat of an investment and cause injury to your skin if not delivered properly, so do your research and make sure operational requirements are met by both the business and technician.
TIPS
For irritating razor burn and ingrown hairs I recommend picking up some “Bump Stopper”. This solution can be found in the ethnic hair care section at most drug store/supermarkets. You can also try Glo Skin Beauty’s Purifying Gel Cleanser, a great foaming wash with powerful acne-fighting ingredients that stimulate exfoliation and clears pores.
