Ingrown groin hairs are usually the result of shaving or waxing the groin area. According to the Mayo Clinic, the pubic or groin area is one of the most common locations for women to get ingrown hairs. An ingrown hair occurs when a hair that is growing out either pierces the hair follicle wall or grows out of the skin, curves around and grows into another spot on the skin. Here are some common treatments to help alleviate inflamed, itchy and painful ingrown hairs.
Time Frame
Ingrown hairs usually take one to two weeks to heal, according to MotherNature.com. If, however, the ingrown hair becomes infected or embedded, the area may take longer to heal. An embedded ingrown hair is an ingrown hair that doesn't break the surface of the skin.
Types
Treatments for ingrown hair include self-care, over-the-counter treatments and prescription treatments. Self-care options include warm compresses and lifting the ingrown end of the hair out of the skin. Over-the-counter treatments include using an antibiotic ointment to minimize the risk of infection or using an anti-itch cream to control itching. Prescription medications include antibiotics, corticosteroid creams and retinoids.
Considerations
There is a chance of hyperpigmentation when you have an ingrown groin hair. Hyperpigmentation is a darkening of the skin that occurs in some people. While there isn't any cure for this condition, it is possible to treat with skin lighteners. People with sensitive skin should visit a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate product because some products may be irritating to the skin.
Warnings
When you have ingrown groin hairs, you should avoid picking at them or scratching them because this may introduce bacteria into the area, which may result in an infection. It can also lead to permanent scarring in the area. If you notice signs of infection, such as severe pain, oozing fluid from the area or if you are running a fever, contact a doctor immediately.
Prevention/Solution
While your ingrown groin hair is healing, don't shave or wax the area. Once the hair is healed, you can try shaving again. When you do, soak in warm water in the tub for at least 10 minutes before shaving. Use a single-blade razor with shaving gel. Shave from your pubic bone downward, which goes along with the grain of the hair. On your upper thighs, shave from the top of your thigh toward your inner thigh. Also, be sure to rinse your razor after each stroke and only go over each area once. When you are done, apply a cool compress to the area.
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