The Mayo Clinic characterizes an ingrown hair as any hair that grows back into the skin. They're typically a result of shaving, but you can also develop ingrown hairs from other hair removal methods, including tweezing, waxing and even electrolysis. The pubic region is prone to develop ingrown hairs after hair removal because this condition is more likely to occur in areas with curly hair.
Self-Care
Sometimes, you can effectively treat ingrown hairs on the pubic region with self-care measures. According to the American Academy of Dermatology advises that you should rub a washcloth or the bristles of a toothbrush over the prior to shaving to help loosen hairs that are prone to grow into the skin. Once the tip is no longer embedded, the inflammation subsides, and the bump disappears. Though difficult to accomplish in the pubic region, you can also physically lift the tip out of the skin with a needle or tweezers.
Medicinal
The Mayo Clinic suggests talking to your doctor about a prescription medication to help manage ingrown hairs, especially when they're an ongoing problem. Corticosteroids can help to lessen the inflammation causing the bumps, while topical antibiotics are used to prevent infection of the affected hair follicles. You can also treat ingrown hairs with the retinoids commonly used to treat acne. This prescription medication helps remove dead skin and lessen thickening and discoloration of the skin as a result of ingrown hairs.
Prevention/Solution
If you're prone to ingrown hairs, there are ways you can prevent them from developing along the bikini line. Before shaving, apply a lubricating shaving gel to the skin. From there, always shave in the direction of hair growth and minimize razor strokes, explains the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Both of these techniques leave the hair slightly longer, and thereby reduce the potential for ingrown hair growth. Never pull the skin taut, as this can also produce a close shave and increase the risk of ingrown hairs. After you've finished shaving, thoroughly rinse the skin, and apply a cold compress to the pubic region.
Hair Removal
Razor blades, namely multi-blade razors, shear the hairs tight to the skin, increasing the likelihood of ingrown hair growth. The same can be said for waxing, which can break the hair shaft under the skin. By opting for a different method of hair removal, like an electric razor or depilatory, you leave the hair slightly longer or without a sharp tip, reducing the chances of curl-back and penetration of the epidermis from the hair, advises the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.
Considerations
For people suffering from chronic ingrown hair growth, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests permanent hair removal. Electrolysis and laser hair removal both provide long-term hair-free skin. When the hair is no longer allowed to grow, you can't suffer from ingrown hairs.
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