Razor Bumps on Side Burns

According to Men’s Health Magazine, the average number of times that a man shaves is five times a week. While the mustache, beard, chin, and throat are common areas of concern – the side burns is another region that gains a lot of attention from the electric shaver or razor blade. Unless you want to end up looking like Elvis – chances are – you’ve been wondering what causes those small bumps that form after a fresh shave.

Appearance

Razor bumps tend to develop in the side burns region because of the new hair growth attempting to exit follicles. Instead of growing out straight – some strands can bend back into the surface of the skin. Since the hairs found in your side burns are sometimes coarser and possess sharper ends than other hairs found on your body – the chances of burrowing back into the skin is greater. In the end, puffy skin and pimple-like bumps that can fill with pus when infected may arise. The color of razor bumps located in the side burns can range from pinkish-red to purple-brown.

Causes

When razor bumps attack the side burns, it is usually because of the following factors:

a) Unclean Blades:

The risk of irritation, razor bumps, and infection becomes greater when an individual repeatedly uses the same blade for shaving. To reduce your chances of razor bumps, make sure to frequently change your blades. It is recommended to discard old blades after three uses.

b) Early Morning Shaves:

It is best to avoid shaving your side burns first thing in the morning, as body fluids tend to make the skin puffier than usual. After waking up, it is suggested to wait 20 to 30 minutes to allow the skin to stiffen and encourage a more exposed hair shaft.

c) Handheld Razors:

When using a handheld razor to shave your side burns, make sure to shave in the direction of hair growth. Keep in mind that most hair found on a man’s face grows in a downward slant.

d) Electric Blades and Foil:

After a few months, it is suggested to replace the rotary blades and foil of your electric razor to avoid razor bumps. Often, people wait as long as they can before replacing rotary blade components because they can cost a pretty penny and add up in the long run. This will only place your skin at risk. If you shave daily, replacements should come sooner.