When you remove facial hair using tweezing, waxing, shaving or electrolysis, you are at risk for developing ingrown hair. Because the chin is a readily visible area, ingrown hair on it may cause the sufferer to become self-conscious. Ingrown hair on the face, including the chin, are also known as razor bumps or psuedofolliculitis barbae, states Skin Sight.
Risk Factors
The chin is one of the most common areas where men get ingrown hair. Black males, especially those from ages 14 to 25, and Hispanics are most likely to get ingrown hair because of they have coarse and tightly curled hair, according to experts at the Mayo Clinic. However, any male who shaves his face may get ingrown chin hair.
Cause
Ingrown hair is caused when a hair begins to curl back towards the skin as it grows. The hair may grow into the skin. Once it pierces through the skin, the body's immune system begins to attack the hair as it would any foreign body. When this occurs, the hair is known as an ingrown hair.
Symptoms
As your immune system fights against the ingrown hair, the area becomes inflamed. This inflammation may cause pain and itching. You will notice a red bump in the area of the ingrown hair. This bump may be pus filled. As the hair grows, you may notice a loop of hair that is visible above the skin.
Treatment
Applying warm compresses is one way to treat an ingrown hair, according to Epigee. If the area is itchy, you can use hydrocortisone cream to manage the discomfort. Over-the-counter antibiotics may be used to minimize the risk of infection. Teasing the ingrown end of the hair out of the skin using a sanitized needle is possible once the hair loop becomes visible. People with chronic ingrown chin hair may need prescriptions, including corticosteroids, antibiotics or retinoids from a doctor.
Prevention
Using lubricating shaving gel and a sharp razor with one blade may help to prevent ingrown hair. Shaving the chin using a single downward stroke may prevent ingrown hair, as the chin hair usually grows downward. Other ways to prevent ingrown hair on the chin include using chemical hair removal methods or laser hair removal.
Warning
Ingrown hair on the chin can cause a condition called hyperpigmentation, which is a darkening of the skin. It is possible for an ingrown chin hair to become infected, which may cause severe scarring. Scratching the ingrown hair may introduce bacteria into the area and cause the infection. People who suffer from chronic ingrown hair are most likely to suffer these conditions. As such, if you get ingrown hair on your chin often, visit your doctor to determine the appropriate course of action for your case.
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