Creams To Help With Ingrown Hair Bumps

If you notice red, irritated bumps after shaving you are suffering from ingrown hairs, says the Mayo Clinic. Ingrown hairs can occur anywhere you shave but happen most often if you are shaving coarse or curly hair. After the hair is shaved, it grows back down into the skin rather than emerging. The hair creates a painful, red bump underneath the skin. To eliminate ingrown hairs use over-the-counter products or consult a dermatologist for prescription medications.

Hydrocortisone Cream

In "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Women," dermatologist says Allison Vidimos, M.D. recommends applying over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to the skin to eliminate ingrown hair bumps. You can purchase hydrocortisone cream at the drugstore. Apply the cream immediately after shaving and at bedtime to help reduce swelling and irritation of the skin that causes ingrown hair bumps. When the skin lies flat the hair is less likely to become ingrown and more likely to emerge from the skin properly.

Retinoid Cream

The Mayo Clinic recommends retinoid cream as a prescription remedy for ingrown hairs. Retinoid cream, like tretinoin, is available only with a prescription from a doctor. When applied to the skin, retinoid cream helps speed up the exfoliation process, which makes skin smoother and less likely to trap ingrown hairs. Individuals with darker skin may notice dark patches and roughness on the skin in areas with frequent ingrown hairs. The Mayo Clinic recommends retinoid creams for these individuals because it will help even out skin tone and roughness.

Antibiotic Cream

If an ingrown hair is particularly infected, antibiotic cream is necessary, says the Mayo Clinic. Ingrown hairs that are scratched or picked may become infected and become more swollen, red and irritated. Consult a doctor for a prescription antibiotic cream to place over the infected area. The antibiotic cream will help reduce bacteria and promote healing. If the infection is severe, your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic in addition to the topical antibiotic to speed up healing.