Thread: Razor bump/burn solution?

I figure this is a common question, but I've looked and looked and can't find a thread anywhere, so here it is;

I get razor burn/ razor bumps on my neck pretty badly, and I can't get them to go away. I've determined that shaving isn't the problem (they don't go away when I stop shaving), but it definitely isn't helping. I know there's no magic solution to this problem, but I thought I might ask the experienced gentlemen here at SRP if they had any advice.

I've tried a couple of creams, soaps, and face washes (col. conk, proraso, portland general store's face bomb, bump patrol to name a few) in various combinations, and have been able to take the edge off, but never to get them to go away.

Any suggestions for new shaving creams, soaps, or what have you would be greatly appreciated.

(As a side note, I realize that failure to adhere to a proper shaving routine can cause these problems as well, but I have eliminated this as being the source of the problem; I have done loads of research on this, and follow the best advice to the letter, and my problem persists.)

This seems like a question better referred to a Dermatologist.

I agree, I've got an appointment on the calendar. I figured it didn't hurt to poll the crowds here as well

I've used Proraso, PGS and I feel both are good, I have not used the others. I would minimize the amount of times you go over the same area. Have you tried an Alum block? Witch hazel? or any kind of after shave.
The only other thing I can think of is to much pressure, and or a dull blade. Not sure if your using a straight razor or a DE, I assume a straight razor.

It could be a skin reaction to the lather, a technique issue, a razor issue or all of the above.

Do you shave against the grain (even inadvertently) on your neck?

The razor I have is a parker sr1 shavette. I always shave with the grain. I try to use as light of pressure as possible whilst still cutting the hair.

Yes, definitely make sure that you shave with the grain and with an ultra sharp blade. Don't press too hard and ensure your prep is perfected.

Originally Posted by rum

Yes, definitely make sure that you shave with the grain and with an ultra sharp blade. Don't press too hard and ensure your prep is perfected.

I will second that, and add that I get fewer problems with my neck when I shave with a straight than when I shave with my DE. I think one really must pay attention to technique with the DE (as opposed to the straight) as the blades are so thin and sharp. Just my 2 cents.

Originally Posted by bplipschitz

I will second that, and add that I get fewer problems with my neck when I shave with a straight than when I shave with my DE. I think one really must pay attention to technique with the DE (as opposed to the straight) as the blades are so thin and sharp. Just my 2 cents.

This is in my own experience very sound advice. I have a DE dating back to 2006 and since then I used it maybe two or three times when I was still 'learning'. With the DE you need to be careful not too stretch too much and to use light strokes. But so long as my prep is good the straight has given me outstanding, irritation-free and bump-free shaves.

Shavette >> DE for me in terms of irritation. I still get some, but inordinately less than with my DE. I think a lot if it is technique, specifically blade angle. I take a very shallow angle, usually less than 30 degrees, and this has been the single greatest contributor to less irritation. Shaves are actually closer than with DE.

AND witch hazel. I love Thayers toner and it works wonders on irritation. Better than any other cream or balm for me.