This can help stop ingrown hairs before they start developing.

Using a washcloth or soft-bristle skin brush, apply your cleanser and massage in a circular motion.

For people withdry or sensitive skin, a shaving lubricant labeled “for sensitive skin” may be helpful.

An image of a woman applying lotion to her legs

Ziga Plahutar/ Getty Images

Shaving against the direction of growth can increase the chances ofhair regrowingunderneath the skin instead of out of it.

This allows the hair to curl back into the skin as it grows, causing ingrown hairs.

Consistency is key to keeping the skin smooth and clear.

Casey Gallagher, MD

Luo DQ, Liang YH, Li XQ, et al.Ingrowing hair: A case report.Medicine.

2016;95(19):e3660.

doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000003660

Ogunbiyi A.Pseudofolliculitis barbae: Current treatment options.CCID.

2019;12:241-247. doi:10.2147/CCID.S149250

American Academy of Dermatology.6 razor bump prevention tips from dermatologists.

American Academy of Dermatology.Hair removal: How to shave.

American Academy of Dermatology.Razor bump remedies for men with darker skin tones.

American Academy of Dermatology.How your workout can affect your skin.

American Academy of Dermatology.6 ways to remove unwanted hair.

National Health Service UK.Ingrown hairs.