How to Prevent Razor Bumps on Chin

Lifting your chin to face the mirror – you begin to notice small bumps of irritation forming on the skin after a fresh shave. What could you have possibly done to deserve this unwanted visual distraction? Razor bumps (most often referred to as pseudofolliculitis barbae) develop when strands of hair curl back into the skin during their regrowth period. When left untreated, these pimple-like blemishes can lead to scarring.

Obstacles to Overcome

When shaving the chin, main obstacles to consider include:

shape of chin
natural grooves
thickness of hair
any current blemishes (ie. acne)

Razor Bump Prevention – Chin

When looking to avoid the formation of razor bumps on your chin, consider the following methods of prevention, as you approach your next shave:

a) Moisturizer:

Not only will a decent moisturizer help you to maintain youthful and wrinkle-free skin – but it can also truly calm the aftereffects of shaving, which has a knack for causing a great deal of irritation. Sometimes, this irritation can develop into razor bumps when pores become inflamed.

b) Wet Shaving Region:

When hair is wet, a more even cut is achieved– instead of at an angle. Keep in mind that soft and pliable hair is easier to cut. Taking a shower or bath before removing chin hair is a good way to prepare for a shave. However, some men prefer to just wet their chin with water for two to three minutes.

c) Shaving Gel:

This common shaving product reduces skin irritation during a shave. Gels also decrease the level of friction. Don’t forget to work up a good lather and wait at least two minutes before applying the razor to your skin.

d) Avoid Over-Shaving:

To prevent razor bumps, shave patches of skin no more than twice with your razor.

e) Stretching the Skin:

Do not pull or stretch the skin during a shave, as it increases the chances of hair returning below skin level, which increases the risk of ingrown hairs that causes razor bumps to form.

f) Daily Shaves:

Some men have been successful in preventing the razor bumps linked to ingrown hairs by shaving on a daily basis.

g) Avoid Close Shaves:

If you use a single blade or set your electric shaver at a close setting, you can prevent the razor bumps that come when one shaves too close to the skin.

h) New Blades:

With each shave, use a new blade to cut down on the risk of developing razor bumps.

i) Non-Alcoholic Aftershave:

An after-shave lotion or cologne is recommended as a decent aftercare measure for those interested in preventing razor bumps on the chin.