What’s the Deal With Bumps on the Back of Your Head After a Haircut?

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Do you ever get bumps on the back of your head after getting a haircut? If so, you’re not alone! Many people experience this issue after visiting a barber or stylist. Honestly, sometimes it can be a bit disturbing, but don’t worry because you just came to the right place. 

Below, we will discuss everything you need to know about these bumps. This includes the causes and how best to treat them.

We will also provide some tips for preventing them from happening in the first place.


Contents

What Are Head Bumps?

These bumps are commonly referred to as “ingrown hairs.” When you cut your hair, the sharp edge of the hair can cause the hair to grow back into your skin. This can happen with any haircut, but it is more common with close cuts such as a buzz cut.

The razor bumps can appear anywhere on your head, but they are most commonly found at the back of the head near the neckline.

The razor bumps can appear anywhere on your head, but they are most commonly found at the back of the head near the neckline.

Ingrown hairs are not only painful, but they can also be unsightly.

In addition, they often appear as small red bumps that may or may not contain pus. Sometimes, they can even lead to infection if not treated properly.

So, what can you do about them?


Common Causes of Bumps on the Back of Your Head After a Haircut

Several factors can contribute to the development of head bumps. 

1. Shaving Too Close to the Skin

One of the most common is shaving too close to the skin. This can happen if you use a razor that is too sharp or don’t shave properly. Improper shaving techniques can also lead to ingrown hairs.

2. Use of Harsh Hair Products 

Another common cause of head bumps is using hair products that are too harsh on your scalp. This includes shampoo, conditioner, and styling products. If these products contain harsh chemicals, they can irritate your skin and make it more susceptible to ingrown hairs.

3. Dirty Blades 

Another common cause of head bumps is shaving with dirty, old blades. If your razor is not clean, it can cause the hair to become ingrown. It can also lead to infection.

This also applies to barber shops and salons! Make sure the blades are clean before getting your haircut.

4. Tight Clothing 

Another common cause of head bumps is wearing tight clothing. This includes hats, caps, and anything else that can pressure the hair follicles.

Another common cause of head bumps is wearing tight clothing. This includes hats, caps, and anything else that can pressure the hair follicles.

This pressure can irritate the follicles and make them more susceptible to ingrown hairs.


Treating Bumps That Appear at the Back of Your Head

Now that you already have these bumps, here are a few things you can do to eliminate them.

Use a Warm Compress 

The use of warm compress helps soothe the irritation and reduce inflammation. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and apply it to the affected area for five minutes. Do this three times a day until the bumps disappear.

Apply an Antiseptic Cream 

Another way to treat head bumps is by applying antiseptic cream. This will help kill any bacteria that may be causing the infection. Apply the cream to the affected area three times a day until the bumps disappear.

Use Tea Tree Oil 

Tea tree oil is another effective treatment for head bumps. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Apply tea tree oil to the affected area three times a day until the bumps disappear.

Apply Aloe Vera Gel 

This is ideal if you want to soothe the redness from the bumps. Like tea tree oil, Aloe vera gel has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce irritation. It’s also good on the hair itself!

See A Doctor 

If the bumps are large, painful, or filled with pus, it’s best to see a doctor. They may prescribe medication or recommend other treatments. Additionally, if you have a weakened immune system, it’s best to see a doctor as you may be at risk for more severe infections.


How to Prevent Head Bumps 

There are several ways to treat head bumps. First, of course, the best way to treat them is to prevent them from happening in the first place. However, if you do get them, there are several things you can do to get rid of them.

Wash Your Hair Regularly 

One of the best ways to prevent head bumps is to wash your hair regularly. This will remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup that can clog the pores and lead to ingrown hairs.

Maintaining good head hygiene comes in handy. It does not only help prevent bumps at the back of your head and keeps your scalp healthy.

Exfoliate Your Scalp 

Another way to prevent head bumps is to exfoliate your scalp. This will remove dead skin cells that can clog the pores and lead to ingrown hairs.

You can use a soft toothbrush or loofah to exfoliate your scalp gently. Be sure not to scrub too hard as this can irritate the skin.

Use of Moisturizing Products 

You can prevent head bumps by using moisturizing products. This includes shampoo, conditioner, and hair oil.

These products will help keep your hair and scalp hydrated, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs.

Avoid Shaving Too Close to The Skin 

Earlier, we noted that one of the major causes of back head pumps is shaving close to the skin. If you can avoid this, at least do. But if you must shave, take extra care not to shave too close to the skin. This will help prevent the hair from becoming ingrown.

Use of Sharp Blades

At all times, ensure to use sharp blades. This will help ensure that the hair is cut cleanly and evenly. Dull blades can cause the hair to become jagged and more likely to ingrown.

Clean Your Blades Regularly 

Another way to prevent head bumps is by cleaning your blades regularly. This will help remove any dirt or oil that can clog the pores and lead to ingrown hairs. Make sure to clean your razor after each use. You can also sterilize it in boiling water for five minutes weekly.

Consider Epilating

If you have an area that constantly gets ingrown hairs, you may want to try epilating that area instead of shaving. An epilator pulls the hair out by the root and is less likely to cause razor bumps or ingrown hairs. But the process can hurt!


Conclusion 

Head bumps are common, especially after a haircut, but they are preventable and treatable. However, remember, the best way to treat razor bumps is to prevent them from happening in the first place.

If you do get them, there are various ways you get rid of them. Maintaining good head hygiene is vital, so wash your hair regularly and exfoliate your scalp. 

Written by Kayla Young

Kayla is the founder of LuxeLuminous. She has worked professionally in the tanning industry for years. She has been interested in esthetics since childhood, and has tried every hair, skin, and makeup product ever produced (more or less).