Razor Rash

Red bumps around the neck area after shaving is usually razor rash (pseudofolliculitis barbae or PFB) when facial hairs are involved; or (psuedofolliculitis pubis when pubic hairs are involved) and possibly razor rash (folliculitis). Women can get razor rash in particular in the bikini line area, under arms and on the legs. However, these shaving problems are most common among men of African-Caribbean descent in particular or in people with curly hair.

Razor rash is caused when hair curls and grows back into the skin. The body's immune system recognizes the hair as an intruder and attacks it, creating red, inflamed areas. These red bumps are susceptible to infection and can easily turn into razor rash.

Razor rash is caused by a bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus that infects the hair follicle. This can lead to redness, itching, and even small, pus-filled blisters. The bacteria normally resides in our nasal passages without our realizing it. Shaving can introduce the bacteria to hair follicles on the face, where it is not as harmless a guest.

Treating razor rash involves using PFB before and after shaving, ideally re applying a few time throughout the day. Once the ingrown hairs are outed, simply use after shaving to prevent further ingrown hairs

People can also help prevent razor rash by:

Using warm water to soften the skin and hairs before shaving; shaving right after a shower.
Applying shaving cream, foam, or soap in the opposite direction of hair growth (usually upward), moisturizing your skin as well as hair. Shaving the easier areas first: the jaw line, cheeks, and neck.
Shaving in the direction of hair growth (usually downward).
Not stretching your skin taut.
Rinsing your razor thoroughly after each use and replacing your blades every week or more often if necessary.
Shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth and stretching the skin taut are two methods of getting the closest shave, which unfortunately increase the likelihood of razor bumps and barber's rash. These techniques, as well as using razors with two or three blades, attempt to cut the hair underneath the actual skin line, inadvertently making it easier for those hairs to then poke back into the skin.
Using an electric razor gently against the skin is another option to help prevent razor rash.