If you shave regularly, you know the importance of following a pre and post-care routine. But, that doesn’t mean you always do them. You might be in a hurry, or not paying attention to the products you are using, using a pesky electric razor, or simply pressing too hard with your razor. No matter the reason, the results will be the same — razor bumps.

These red, inflamed, painful bumps can most commonly be found on the legs, neck, cheeks, and bikini line. They happen when the recently cut hair curls back on itself and becomes an ingrown hair. Not to be confused with razor burn, which is a skin irritation caused by the blade of the razor scraping across the skin.

So, other than swearing off razors, what can be done? Fortunately, you don’t have to quit shaving to avoid these bothersome bumps. Instead, there are a few simple tricks to incorporate into your skincare routine to help you tackle razor bumps. Added bonus: They also work on razor burn. Keep reading to learn more.

Start Fresh

Before you even pick up the shaving cream, you need to exfoliate your skin. Exfoliating will clear any dirt, dead skin, or debris that is on the surface of the skin — which helps remove barriers between your skin and the blades. This equates to a closer shave and fewer chances of ingrown hairs. For the face, we recommend using our Facial Fuel Energizing Scrub, which is formulated with exfoliating particles derived from Apricot Kernels to help smooth skin. For body hair, try the Creme de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Body Polish. The creamy formula uses ground Luffa Fruit to exfoliate, as well as Shea and Jojoba Butters, Sweet Almond Oil, Soy Protein, and Honey to nurture skin and leave it comfortably soft and smooth.

Add Water

Dry shaving — that is, shaving without any sort of buffer between your skin and the blades — is one of the main culprits of razor burn. If the razor presses directly on the skin, rather than over top of it, your skin is subjected to the cutting action on its surface. Be sure your skin is wet to help minimize that scraping. Even better? Shave after your shower. The hot water softens both your skin and your hair, making it easier for the blades to cut the hair without damaging the skin.

Protect Yourself

In addition to only working on wet or damp skin, another way to help avoid both razor burn and bumps is to use a shave cream or gel. These act as a lubricant, allowing the razor to glide smoothly over top and create a clean, even cut that makes the hair less likely to become ingrown. Choose one that also has hydrating and soothing ingredients, like the conditioning Kukui Nut Oil and soothing Eucalyptus Oil found in our Close Shavers Squadron Smooth Glider Precision Shave Lotion. And, always use a sharp, clean blade — the sharper it is, the easier it will cut the hair and the less pressure you need to put on the razor.

Take Your Time

The secret to the right shave is making sure the razor is cutting hair, not skin. That means not pressing down too hard or moving the blades too quickly over your skin. Go slowly and carefully and pay attention to the feel of the razor as you shave — you’ll feel it if the surface of the skin is being scratched.

After Care Matters

Your skin is more delicate post-shave and needs special care. Avoid any kind of alcohol, retinols, scrubs, or acids, which can cause stinging and damage the skin. Instead, look for products that are formulated with moisturizing, soothing, and replenishing ingredients that are suitable for sensitive skin. For the face try Ultimate Razor Burn & Bump Relief, it’s cooling formula has Aloe Vera and Vitamin E to calm and soothe just-shaved skin. For the body, our skin-softening Creme de Corps Nourishing Dry Body Oil has a luxurious texture and is formulated with Squalane alongside Grape Seed Oil. Skin is left feeling hydrated, supple, and with a velvety feel.

Use this guide the next time you need a shave and you’ll find your skin will look and feel smooth and soft.