What is razor bumps?

Razor bumps, or ingrown hairs, are small, irritated bumps on the skin. They happen after you shave, when strands of hair curl back on themselves and grow into the skin. They cause irritation and pimples. They also may cause scarring.

Anyone can get them. They're most common in people with tightly curled or spiral hair strands.

The best way to treat razor bumps is to avoid shaving. Electric hair clippers are one option. Hair can also be removed with a chemical depilatory or by having laser hair removal.

If you see a razor bump forming, you may be able to use a clean needle to release the hair shaft. This usually stops a razor bump from growing.

If you start shaving again, razor bumps usually return. Waxing, plucking, and electrolysis aren't recommended since they can also cause bumps.

For severe razor bumps, you may need a special skin cream, such as hydrocortisone, antibiotic, or tretinoin cream.