Sometimes after shaving the head, small bumps that resemble acne form on the scalp. These bumps, which may be painful and itchy, are usually the result of ingrown hairs. The ingrown hair may have a noticeable loop of hair that goes from the hair follicle into the skin; however, it is also possible for the hair to remain embedded under the skin.
Risk Factors
While ingrown hairs are most common in African American males ages 14 to 25, according to the Mayo Clinic, any male who shaves his head is at an increased risk of developing ingrown hairs. The risk is increased in people who have curly hair, because the curly hair is caused by a curved hair follicle, which makes it more likely that the hair will curve around and re-enter the skin.
Causes
Shaving, waxing, plucking and chemical hair removal can all lead to ingrown head hairs. After the hair is removed, it will start to grow out again. As it grows, there is a chance that it may curve around toward the skin. If the tip of the hair begins to grow into the skin after it curves around, it will cause irritation in the area as the body tries to fight the hair as it would any foreign object. At this point, the head hair is considered ingrown, according to Skin Sight.
Treatments
In order for ingrown head hairs to fully heal, the American Osteopathic College of Medicine recommends that hair removal in the affected area be discontinued for three to four weeks. During this time, warm compresses can be applied to the area to promote healing, states Epigee. Tight caps or hats should be avoided, as these may further irritate the area. Hydrocortisone cream and antibiotic ointments, which are available over-the-counter or by prescription, may also help with healing. For severe cases of ingrown head hair, prescription antifungal medications or oral antibiotics may be necessary.
Prevention
Instead of shaving the head at skin level or trying to get a clean shave, leave a thin layer of hair. If this isn't an option, a new razor with only one blade should be used to achieve the desired results. A previously used razor may contain bacteria that can lead to ingrown hairs. Razors with more than one blade lift the hairs up out of the follicle slightly before cutting them. This makes the hair retract into the follicle after it is cut. The farther down the hair in the follicle, the more likely an ingrown hair will develop. Softening and lubricating the hair and skin with wet, warm compresses applied for five minutes before shaving and using a shaving gel can decrease the risk of ingrown head hairs. Barber clippers or an electric razor can sometimes prevent ingrown head hairs. However, these won't produce a shave as close as a razor.
Warning
Ingrown head hairs can lead to bacterial infections if the bumps are scratched. They can also lead to permanent scarring or darkening of the skin. Anyone with ingrown head hairs should be encouraged to adopt a hands-off policy, which involves no scratching or picking at the bumps. For a person with chronic or severe ingrown head hairs, it is usually necessary to seek treatment from a dermatologist to reduce the risk of ingrown head hairs.
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