As more men and women have begun to groom pubic areas, the potential for ingrown pubic hairs has grown. An ingrown hair is one that has broken off below the surface of the skin, usually through shaving, and then grows back in at an angle under the skin. The affected area becomes red and swollen from the pressure of the hair, which should be removed before it causes pain.
Step 1
Place a warm washcloth on the affected area for five to 10 minutes. This will soften up the hair and help it uncurl. Remove the washcloth and check if the hair has broken through the skin. If it has not, repeat the process as necessary.
Step 2
Light a match. Place the ends of a pair of tweezers over the open flame to sterilize them. Let the tweezers cool, then grab the hair with them and pull it out.
Step 3
Wash the area with soap and warm water to get rid of any bacteria. The ingrown hair will leave an opening in your skin, much like a cut. Washing this area will help you resist infection. Pat the area dry with a soft towel.
Step 4
Cover the infected area with an antiseptic cream to further protect yourself from infection.
Step 5
Exfoliate the skin with an exfoliating cream if the above process does not work. This should be a last resort.
Tips and Warnings
- If the hair is not rising from the skin after the compress has been applied, it may not be long enough yet. Wait a few days in order to let the hair grow and then try the process again. Try to use tweezers with the sharpest point you can find. This will make grabbing the hair much easier. To reduce the instance of ingrown hairs, try shaving with less frequency. The hair will grow back more evenly, make it easier to remove, and allow your skin to heal.
- Never pick at the ingrown hair like you do at a pimple. This can lead to bleeding once you "pop" it and, in extreme cases, scarring.
Things You'll Need
- Warm washcloth
- Matches
- Tweezers
- Soap and water
- Dry towel
- Antiseptic cream
- Exfoliating cream
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