An ingrown hair on your scalp is caused when the hair curves into the hair follicle or into the skin. This is most commonly caused by hair-removal methods, such as shaving, waxing or using depilatory products, which remove the hair right at the skin level or below the skin.
Symptoms
An ingrown hair on your scalp may itch or feel painful. The area will usually become irritated. A pimple-like bump may develop that will appear red and may contain pus. In some cases, the skin around the ingrown hair may become darker than normal, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is called hyperpigmentation.
Risk Factors
Men are more likely to suffer from ingrown scalp hairs than women. People with curly hair, such as African Americans, are at risk for ingrown hairs because the hairs are more likely to curve as they grow instead of growing out straight. The Mayo Clinic reports that the group most likely to get ingrown hairs is black males ages 14 to 25.
Treatments
Once you notice an ingrown hair on your scalp, you should stop hair-removal methods until the ingrown hair is healed. You can place a wet, warm towel on the ingrown hair to help blood to flow to the area and encourage healing. You can do this up to three times per day, according to Epigee Women's Health. Anti-itch cream can be applied to the scalp according to the manufacturer's directions if the ingrown hair itches. It is also important to keep the scalp cool because sweat can cause the ingrown hair to get worse, so don't wear anything, such as a cap or scarf, on your head.
Warning
It is possible for an ingrown hair to become embedded. This occurs when the hair isn't visible above the skin. If this happens, it is important not to pick at the ingrown hair or try to get it out from under the skin, as picking at the area may introduce bacteria into the area and cause an infection. If you accidentally break the skin around the ingrown hair, you can apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment.
Prevention
The only sure way to prevent ingrown scalp hair is to let your hair grow or keep it short without shaving it. If you still choose to shave your head, you can minimize your risk of getting an ingrown hair by using a clean, single-blade razor and shaving gel when you shave. You can also apply a warm compress to the area to soften the hair and skin before you shave. Instead of using a razor, you can use clippers or an electric razor to remove hair from your head.
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