Every hair removal method carries a risk of ingrown hairs. However, Epigee.org states that razors are the most likely to cause ingrown hairs because they produce a blunt cut at or below the surface of the skin. Men are most likely to get ingrown hairs on the face, neck and head. Women are most likely to get them in the armpit, on the leg or in the pubic region.
Types
As shaved hair grows out, it may start to curl back toward the skin. If this happens, there is a chance that the hair will begin to grow into the skin. This is called extrafollicular penetration, which is an ingrown hair. If you pull your skin taut when you are shaving, the hair may grow into the wall of the hair follicle, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is called transfollicular penetration, which is another type of ingrown hair.
Symptoms
Ingrown hairs caused by shaving with a razor have the same symptoms as any ingrown hair. Redness, irritation, pain, itching and an acne-like blemish are signs of an ingrown hair. Extrafollicular penetration ingrown hairs have a visible portion of the hair above the skin that goes from the hair follicle to the location on the skin where the hair reentered. Transfollicular penetration ingrown hairs don't have this loop.
Treatments
Treating an ingrown hair can be as simple as applying a hot compress to the area up to three times per day. Other treatment options include teasing the hair out of the skin by rubbing the area gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush or rough washcloth. Removing the ingrown end of the hair using a sterilized needle may also help. After you remove the hair, apply an over the counter antibiotic ointment to reduce the chance of infection. For hairs that itch, hydrocortisone cream can help to control the itching.
Prevention/Solution
Not shaving is the only way to prevent ingrown hairs caused by razors. If that isn't an option, use a single blade razor that is new each time you shave. Go over each area only once---even if some hairs are still left. Don't pull the skin when you are shaving and use shave gel to lubricate the skin. Because dry hairs are more likely to become ingrown, soak the area you are shaving in warm water or apply a wet and warm compress for at least five minutes before shaving. Brigham and Women's Hospital recommends exfoliating the skin regularly using a glycolic body wash.
Alternatives
Electrolysis, laser hair removal, waxing, tweezing, depilatory products and electric razors are all alternatives that you can try instead of traditional razors. While each of these methods may cause ingrown hairs, you can try each one to see which one works for you.
Considerations
Ingrown hairs caused by razors are considered a chronic condition if they occur each time you shave. In this case, treatment by a doctor may be required to get the condition under control. Ingrown hairs can cause skin darkening, called hyperpigmentation, and they can cause scarring. Both of these are permanent conditions, so it is important not to ignore chronic ingrown hairs.
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