I've currently been working out for a few weeks now and can see a bit of an improvement with my physique which is a good thing, I don't eat anything before OR after my workouts but I heard having a Protein Shake/Bar before and then after workouts can help speed up the muscle building/repairing process, a friend told me to avoid these Protein Shakes and Bars as they make you feel really bloated and can cause you to add fat to the face and body. Is this true? Can someone please tell me the positives and negatives of using Protein Shakes/Bars?

It depends on your fitness goals. If your goal is to lose fat, avoid protein bars before workout. However, you can have them as a morning snack (around 11 AM). A protein powder (preferably Whey) would better serve your purpose immediately after your workout. And, regarding your friend's advice, I haven't heard of anything like that. I don't think there is any truth in that. Though, on some forums/sites, people have experienced this bloating after consuming low quality protein powders. So, focus on quality and you won't be disappointed.

your friend doesn't know what he's talking about.
but, most protein bars are not of good quality. the protein in them is sub-standard, and they're often loaded with sugar, sugar alcohol, and fat. Better than a Big Mac, but that's not saying a whole lot.

a good protein powder, however, is a good way to get the protein you need IF you are having problems getting protein from whole foods. a shake is also good for post workout nutrition, immediately after a workout.