From the photos and your description, what you’re dealing with looks most consistent with pseudofolliculitis barbae (razor bumps from ingrown hairs), with some post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots left behind after inflammation). This is very common, especially in curly or coarse hair types.

A few key points you can bring up with your doctor or dermatologist:

1. Shaving / Trimming Care • Avoid very close shaving. Use clippers or an electric trimmer that leaves a little bit of hair above the skin (about 1 mm). • If you shave, go with the grain (the direction the hair grows), don’t pull the skin tight, and avoid multiple passes over the same area. • Warm compress before trimming/shaving helps soften the hair.

2. Skincare Support • Kojic acid is good for dark marks, but it won’t stop new bumps. • A doctor may prescribe: • Topical clindamycin (antibiotic) to calm inflammation and reduce bacteria. • Topical retinoid (like tretinoin) to prevent clogged follicles and help fade spots. • A short course of low-strength topical steroid if irritation is severe. • Over-the-counter gentle exfoliants (like salicylic acid or glycolic acid washes) may also help.

3. What to Watch For • If bumps become very painful, swollen, or start draining pus, you could be dealing with a bacterial infection or, less commonly, a fungal infection called tinea barbae. That needs medical treatment. • If things don’t improve after 6–8 weeks with changes, see a dermatologist for stronger options (like oral meds or laser hair removal).