Ingrown hairs are a common issue experienced after hair removal techniques like shaving, waxing or tweezing. They occur when hair curls back into the skin instead of growing outward, leading to irritation, redness, and sometimes infection. This guide explores effective ways to treat and prevent ingrown hairs, helping you maintain smooth and healthy skin.
What Are Ingrown Hairs?
An ingrown hair occurs when a strand of hair grows back into the skin after being cut or removed, forming a small, raised bump that may be red, painful, or itchy. While they are often harmless, ingrown hairs can sometimes lead to infection or scarring if left untreated.
Common Areas Affected:
- Face (beard area for men)
- Legs
- Armpits
- Pubic area (bikini line)
Symptoms:
- Small, round bumps that may appear red or discoloured
- Raised skin with a visible hair trapped underneath
- Itching or discomfort around the bump
- Pus-filled spots (if infected)
- Inflammation or tenderness in the area
Causes:
Ingrown hairs can occur as a result of a number of reasons. These include:
- Shaving: Shaving against the direction of hair growth or using multi-blade razors can cut hair too short, causing it to curl back into the skin. Particularly thick, coarse or curly hair in particular tends to respond badly to shaving and could result in ingrowing hairs.
- Waxing and tweezing: With improper technique and/or unsuitable products, both hair removal methods of waxing and tweezing can cause hair to snap under the skin’s surface (rather than being removed from the root) which will increase the risk of ingrown hairs.
- Thick, curly or coarse hair: Regardless of how you remove your hair, certain hair types are unfortunately more prone to curling back into the skin.
Diagnosis and Treatment
How Are Ingrown Hairs Diagnosed?
Ingrown hairs are usually easy to spot and feel and therefore self-diagnosable. The area could become red, raised and inflamed. It may feel hot and sensitive to the touch. Signs of infection - such as the appearance of pus - may become visible. If an area becomes clearly infected and doesn’t heal, consult a healthcare provider for a professional evaluation.
How to Treat Ingrown Hairs
While ingrown hairs often resolve naturally, you can take steps to speed up healing and prevent infection:
-
Pause Hair Removal
Avoid shaving, waxing, or tweezing to allow the hair to grow out naturally. -
Warm Compress
Apply a warm compress to the area for 10–15 minutes to soften the skin and open pores, encouraging the trapped hair to emerge. -
Gentle Exfoliation
Exfoliate daily using a gentle scrub, brush, or cloth to remove dead skin cells that may be trapping the hair. -
Release the Hair
If the tip of the hair is visible, gently tease it out with sterilised tweezers or a needle. Avoid picking at the skin to prevent infection or scarring. -
Topical Treatments
Use over-the-counter creams with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide to reduce inflammation and promote chemical exfoliation. -
Treat Infections
If the area is red, swollen, or filled with pus, apply an antibiotic ointment. For more severe cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics.
How to Prevent Ingrown Hairs
Preventing ingrown hairs is easier than treating them. Follow these tips for smooth, irritation-free skin:
-
Exfoliate Regularly
Use a gentle scrub or body brush in the days leading up to your hair removal treatment to remove dead skin cells. -
Prepare the Skin
Soften the hair and open your pores by washing with warm water before shaving. Use a hydrating shaving gel or cream to minimise friction. -
Choose the Right Tools
Opt for single-blade razors, which cut hair just above the skin’s surface, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs. Avoid multi-blade razors that cut hair too short. -
Shave in the Direction of Hair Growth
Always shave with the grain, not against it, to minimise the chance of hair curling back into the skin. -
Shave Less Often
Shaving less frequently reduces skin irritation and gives the area time to heal. -
Moisturise After Shaving
Apply an alcohol-free lotion or balm with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin E to calm the skin and prevent inflammation.
Living with Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs are usually harmless but can be frustrating, especially if they are persistent or infected. Developing a consistent skincare routine that includes exfoliation, proper shaving techniques, and moisturising can significantly reduce their occurrence.
When to Seek Medical Advice:
- Signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, or pus
- Persistent ingrown hairs despite preventive measures
- Severe discomfort or scarring
Ingrown hairs may be a nuisance, but with the right care and hair removal practices, they are entirely preventable and treatable. Follow this guide to keep your skin smooth and irritation-free. If you notice signs of infection or recurring issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.
