Why Do I Get Pimples After I Shave?
Why do I get pimples after I shave? If you shave regularly, you might notice small bumps or pimples after shaving. They’re actually not pimples at all. They’re razor bumps. Razor bumps look a lot like acne but they form when hair gets trapped under the skin and starts growing inward. Shaving pimples are commonly caused by shaving and often lead to ingrown hairs.
So, what causes pimples after shaving and what can you do to avoid them and enjoy a smoother, comfier shave? Ahead, we explain why you’re experiencing those stubborn bumps, how to treat them, and how to prevent them in the first place.
Why Do I Get Pimples After I Shave?
Shaving pimples, otherwise known as razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae), develop when hair follicles become irritated after shaving. This irritation happens when body or facial hairs are cut at an angle, especially during close shaves. Instead of growing straight out of the follicle, the hairs, particularly coarse, curly hair, can curl back into the skin, causing ingrown hairs.
When these hairs get trapped beneath the skin’s surface, your body responds with inflammation, leading to painful red bumps. They may resemble pimples, but they’re actually caused by the body’s response to trapped ingrown hairs, treating them like irritants under the skin.
Shaving also removes the skin’s top protective layer, leaving the area more vulnerable to bacteria, which increases the risk of infection or irritation. Improper shaving techniques, such as using a dull razor, shaving too closely, or skipping shaving cream, can all exacerbate the problem by increasing friction and irritating the skin.
How to Get Rid of Pimples After Shaving
Now you know the answer to “Why do I get pimples after I shave?” let’s look into how you can treat them—and fast. These red bumps will typically go away on their own within several days or, in some cases, a few weeks. If the bumps are irritating, there are some treatment options and skincare products to get rid of them faster.
#1: Apply Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil boasts antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It clears the hair follicle, loosens the ingrown hair, and reduces the redness of pimples after shaving. Instead of using tea tree oil alone, we recommend using a topical solution that contains tea tree.
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Truly’s Cooka Oil is an ingrown treatment that features tea tree oil, lavender, and primrose. Together, these ingredients help to clear clogged pores, release trapped hairs, and leave skin feeling soothed, soft, and comfortable. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
#2: Exfoliate
Another way to get rid of pimples after shaving is with gentle exfoliation. Exfoliation removes the buildup of dead skin cells that clog pores to release ingrown hairs and smooth out bumps. Instead of physical exfoliation (scrubs), we recommend using a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid or salicylic acid which can be found in cleansers, toners, and serums.
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Truly’s Smooth Legend After Shave Serum is a skin refining treatment formulated with lactic acid and glycolic acid. It lightly exfoliates the skin while replenishing moisture with a precious blend of plum oil, squalane, and vitamin E. It’s the secret to an ultra-smooth shave.
#3: Moisturize
Moisturizing might not treat pimples after shaving on its own. However, it will keep your skin barrier strong, soothe redness, and prevent skin irritation. It’s always a good idea to moisturize after shaving as this will help to soothe, smooth, and nourish the skin following the hair removal process. You can either use a cream, lotion, serum, or aftershave oil.
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Truly’s Glazed Donut After Shave Oil is a cooling, flash-absorbing serum that combats dry skin, razor burn, and bumps. It’s made with a nourishing blend of niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E to support skin barrier and leave skin soft and luminous. Plus, it smells irresistible—like warm vanilla glaze.
How to Avoid Getting Pimples After Shaving
Shaving can make your skin feel velvety smooth, but nothing ruins that fresh feeling like those annoying little pimples that pop up after. You already know why do I get pimples after I shave? Now let’s find out how you can prevent razor bumps in the first place.
If you’re ready for smooth, glowing skin after every shave, here’s how to avoid post-shave breakouts and bumps.
1. Prep Like a Pro
The secret to a perfect shave starts long before you even touch the razor. Think of it as a mini spa moment for your skin! Start by washing with a gentle, pore-clearing cleanser and warm water to open the pores. Then add an exfoliating scrub into the mix to sweep away dead skin cells that can clog your pores and lead to breakouts. Prepping your skin this way ensures your razor glides effortlessly, minimizing skin irritation.
If you have thick, coarse hair, you can make things even easier for yourself by trimming hair beforehand using scissors or an electric razor. This will help remove excess hair so you can achieve a smoother, closer shave.
2. Sharp Razors = Happy Skin
Ever tried shaving with a dull razor? Ouch! Not only does it feel like sandpaper, but it also causes those nasty little cuts that turn into pimples. Dull blades are a recipe for a razor bumps and redness. Make sure you always use a clean, sharp razor.
Pro tip: swap it out regularly to avoid bacteria buildup that could be the culprit behind your pimples after shaving.
3. Always Use Shaving Cream
Shaving cream, shaving gel, shaving butter—they all ensure a smooth, irritation-free shave. Dry shaving is the biggest mistake you can make when shaving. Without the slip, there’s increased friction which can lead to bumps and burns.
We recommend using a hydrating shave butter which will soften hair and skin for a smoother, closer shave and less chance of painful nicks and bumps.
4. Shave With the Grain
It’s tempting to go against the grain for that super-close shave, but it’s better to shave in the direction of hair growth. Shaving against the direction of hair growth increases your chances of irritation and dreaded ingrown hairs. Instead, let the razor glide with the grain in smooth, controlled strokes. You’ll still get silky results, but without the risk of irritating your skin.
5. Pamper Your Skin Post-Shave
Now comes the fun part—pampering your skin post-shave. Ditch any aftershave products with alcohol (seriously, that stuff dries out your skin). Instead, opt for a soothing, hydrating serum, cream, or body butter with ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, tea tree oil, shea butter, or vitamin E.
6. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Moisturizing isn’t just a post-shave must—it’s a daily ritual for happy skin. Hydrated skin is healthy skin, and the more you moisturize, the better equipped it is to handle shaving without ending up red, dry, and irritated.
Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won’t clog your pores, but keeps your skin plump, smooth, and pimple-free. Look for skincare ingredients like shea butter, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.
Shop Bestselling Shave Routines
Why do I get pimples after I shave? Most likely, it’s because you’re shaving wrong. The best way to prevent pimples after shaving is investing in a quality shave routine, like one of these below.
Browse our full range of bestselling shave routines. Need help finding your perfect routine? Take the Truly Quiz and we’ll match you in minutes. If you’re still suffering with pimples after shaving even with the above treatment options, consult with your dermatologist to rule out skin conditions and for advice on the next best steps.
Watch Our Smooth Legs Shaving Tutorial
